LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
NRL fans are expressing sadness and disappointment after Tim Sheens and Robbie Farah were notably absent from the Wests Tigers' 20-year reunion of their 2005 premiership victory.
The reunion was held in the chairman's lounge at Leichhardt Oval, commemorating the team's 30-16 grand final win over North Queensland.
While current Tigers coach Benji Marshall and Cowboys coach Todd Payten (who played for the Tigers in 2005) were present, Farah was overseas, and Scott Prince missed out due to family commitments.
Sheens, the 2005 coach, also did not attend the event.
The 74-year-old experienced a bitter falling out with the club in 2023 after being sacked and replaced by Marshall.
Sheens had returned to mentor Marshall earlier in 2023, with an expectation to transition to a lesser role, but the club terminated his contract unexpectedly, allowing Marshall to take over a year early.
Following the dismissal, Sheens boycotted the club's end-of-season awards night, indicating a significant rift between him and the organization.
Regarding Farah, his attendance at the reunion remained uncertain, even if he had been in the country.
The former hooker, who served as an assistant coach under Sheens and Marshall, was let go after the team recorded their third consecutive wooden spoon.
Despite his departure, club officials have stated that Farah's relationship with Marshall remains strong.
NRL columnist 'The Mole' commented on the situation, stating on social media, "Such a shame Tim Sheens boycotted the 20-year reunion of the Wests Tigers miracle of 2005.
But he is a man of principal and the Tigers knifed him something shocking." The absence of both Sheens and Farah has left fans reflecting on the tumultuous state of the club, overshadowing the celebratory occasion meant to honor the 2005 championship team.