LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Penrith Panthers had initially signed Blaize Talagi from the Parramatta Eels with the intention of playing him at five-eighth, but after a shock return to the Eels in NSW Cup where he played centre, there seems to be a change in plans.
Coach Ivan Cleary surprised many by naming Jack Cole at No.6 instead of Talagi in the opening round and leaving him out of the first-grade team altogether.
Talagi, who had previously played mostly fullback or wing at the Eels, signed with the Panthers for the opportunity to partner with Nathan Cleary in the halves.
However, his defensive abilities may be a hindrance in playing at five-eighth, as seen in his recent switch to centre in the NSW Cup.
This shift to the outside backs could indicate a new path to first grade for Talagi.
The decision to move Talagi to the centres may have been influenced by the underwhelming performance of Izack Tago, the regular right centre in first grade.
With reports suggesting changes in the Panthers lineup for their upcoming game against the Storm, Talagi's position in the team remains uncertain.
Leading reporter Michael Chammas suggested that the Eels should consider re-signing Talagi, especially now that Dylan Brown, who had previously held the No.6 spot, is set to leave for Newcastle in 2026.
The potential return to the Eels highlights the uncertainty surrounding Talagi's future at the Panthers and the ongoing adjustments being made by coach Cleary to improve the team's performance after a disappointing loss to the Roosters in Round 2.