Just in: Tigers back set to confirm new NRL deal
It is reported that Charlie Staines will stay with the Wests Tigers.
Staines didn’t make much progress when he joined the Tigers in 2023, hoping for an improved position at fullback or on the wing.
After appearing in 38 games between his 2020 debut and his departure from the Penrith Panthers in 2022, he only played nine games in his debut season at the joint venture.
Staines, who has also played one Test for Samoa, spent considerable time in the NSW Cup. It appeared improbable that the Tigers would extend his one-year contract, as he was essentially pushed out of the starting fullback position by Jahream Bula and found it difficult to establish a position among the outside backs.
However, that might not be the case as Benji Marshall, who succeeded Tim Sheens as head coach in 2024, is getting ready for his first season as a head coach. According to Sky Sports Radio, he re-signed with the team this week, so he should report for training soon.
At this point, it’s unclear if the deal is supplemental or Top 30, as the Tigers were thought to already have a full roster for the 2024 season.
The Tigers are expected to be among the teams with the most activity in the player market for 2025, which will put a lot of pressure on their 2024 team to lock up spots before possible arrivals like Penrith Panthers five-eighth Jarome Luai and Melbourne Storm center Justin Olam, who Marshall has recently met in person.
