LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Following the departure of eight members from their Top 30 squad during the end-of-season presentation, the Gold Coast Titans are reportedly preparing to promote one of their brightest young prospects.
Cooper Bai made his NRL debut in the final match of the 2025 season against the Wests Tigers. Although he has only played one game, he has already garnered respect from both fans and club officials due to his positive attitude and strong work ethic on the field.
At just 18 years old, Bai is currently signed to a development contract for the upcoming season. However, The Courier-Mail has indicated that the Titans aim to elevate him to a position on the Top 30 roster.
This potential upgrade would mark one of Josh Hannay's first key decisions after assuming the head coach role. As a representative for the Under-19 Queensland Maroons, Bai is expected to increase his playing opportunities in 2026 and the years ahead.
Ex-NRL, State of Origin, and international player Gordon Tallis shared insights on Bai's lineage, stating, "I played against his father Marcus Bai and he is one of the hardest guys I ever had to tackle. He was off the back fence, he was built low to the ground and if his son has his dad's fabric, which it looks like it does, he will be pretty special." He added, "I watched him play in the Queensland under-19s and he was one of the best players on the field."