After joining the Wests Tigers in 2025, Jarome Luai's tenure with the club has been marked by significant developments, including an unexpected trip to Port Moresby shortly after a loss to North Queensland.
Luai's travel raised eyebrows when he was spotted in Papua New Guinea the day after suffering a leg injury in the last five minutes of the match.
The five-eighth had planned this trip prior to joining the Tigers and was heading to fulfill existing commitments rather than returning to Sydney with his team.
In light of the criticism, coach Benji Marshall defended Luai, emphasizing his right to make personal choices during his time off.
Marshall stated, "It's his time off. He paid to change his flights and not come back with us, which happens quite often with players, and what he chooses to do in his time off, that's up to him."
He also noted that the club will soon not need to consider these issues as Luai is set to leave."In one week's time he's not going to be here anymore," Marshall remarked.
Some questioned whether Luai should have postponed his trip until the end of the season. Marshall responded that such decisions are personal, saying, "That's a question you can ask him."
Luai, who previously enjoyed a celebrated career at the Penrith Panthers, has ultimately decided to mutually part ways with the Tigers one year before his contract's expiration.