Tigers pounce on Premiership winning Panther Turuva

The Wests Tigers have continued to raid the stocks of the three-time NRL Premiership-winning Penrith Panthers by signing Fijian flyer Sunia Turuva in 2025.

Turuva will be joining current Panther’s teammate Jahrome Luai in the move to the Wests Tigers to join former teammates Charlie Staines and Apisai Koroisau.

The signing comes after months of speculation surrounding the star outside back, with reports suggesting he would sign with the St George Illawarra Dragons for the coming season.

It was ultimately the Tigers and head coach Benji Marshall winning the signature of Turuva, with reports suggesting the contract is worth $1.3 million over three years.

Turuva’s breakout match came in an international clash for Fiji against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls. He played fullback and scored two tries from seven tackle breaks with 252 running metres before playing three matches for the Panthers that season.

The 21-year-old took home NRL Rookie of the Year honours last season, scoring 12 tries from 17 line breaks with an average of 165 running metres per game on the wing.

It is unclear what position Turuva will play at the Tigers, but early reports suggest he will join Justin Olam in the centres and act as a backup to fellow Fijian Jahream Bula.

Turuva could also replace Staines on the wing to improve the side’s yardage game from the back in combination with Bula.

The news comes at a good time for the club, who are currently $4.25 chances to beat the Brisbane Broncos at Campbelltown Sports Stadium this Saturday evening with the top NRL bookmakers.

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