Major overhaul expected at Wests Tigers after disastrous NRL season

The Wests Tigers are preparing to part ways with a number of experienced players due to the team’s disappointing performance this season.

The crushing 74-0 defeat in Townsville over the weekend was the final straw for the NRL club’s management, who plan to release at least six players.

Already, veteran winger Ken Maumalo (now with the Titans) and forward Joe Ofahengaue (now with the Eels) have been let go in the middle of the season. Furthermore, center Tommy Talau and the much-criticized halfback Luke Brooks have signed with Manly Sea Eagles for the 2024 season.

Several other players, including Alex Seyfarth, Brandon Wakeham, Charlie Staines, Daine Laurie, and Tukimihia Simpkins, are nearing the end of their contracts and are likely to be released.

However, the club’s restructuring efforts won’t end there, as the new recruitment manager, Scott Fulton, aims to revamp the Tigers’ underperforming roster.

There are indications that several players currently under contract for 2024, such as the injury-prone utility player Adam Doueihi, will be given the opportunity to explore options with other clubs.

Unfortunately, Doueihi recently suffered yet another ACL injury, which could potentially rule him out for the entire 2024 season.

Recognising the need for change, the Tigers’ management has tasked Fulton with initiating recruitment efforts, and one of his early moves is expected to be the signing of the talented Fainu brothers from Manly Sea Eagles as part of a package deal.

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