Wests Tigers’ stunning development with O’Farrell on verge of return
But the biggest news for long-suffering fans will be the revelation that Marshall will remain manager for the long term. Sources not authorized to speak publicly told this imprint that club officials have been in intensive talks with Marshall and his management. Although no contract has been signed yet, all parties are hopeful that the extension will be concluded soon.
This has been something of a baptism of fire for Marshall since taking over as head coach from longtime mentor Tim Sheens. The Tigers won the wooden spoon in the former champion playmaker’s first season but there were some positive signs this year as he climbed four places up the ladder to finish 13th.
Marshall’s ability to attract talent has also helped, with Jarome Luai recently reiterating that playing under the former Golden Boot winner was one of the reasons Marshall chose to leave four-time premierships Penrith. Terrell May, Sunia Turuva and Taylan May also said they were impressed by the opportunity to learn and play within Kiwi International.
By calling Marshall early, Tigers officials hope that many famous stars, especially Luai and Jahream Bula, will also decide to join the club in the long term. While Luai has a clause allowing him to leave the club at the end of 2025 if he wishes, Bula’s contract also includes a mutual option for his services after next season.
Vacant board memberships will be filled at the board meeting to be held on December 15.
HBG has also moved to reassure all stakeholders that Balmain will remain part of the joint venture.
Tigers utility player Adam Doueihi spoke glowingly on Wednesday about Marshall’s evolution as an NRL coach since playing alongside him at the end of his career.
“We play for Benji, he is our head coach,” Doueihi said at the introduction of the El Jannah chicken. “He runs the ship every day, and we follow his lead. Benji has been good to me.
“I’ve been under it for a few years and it’s really growing every week.
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“He’s really starting to develop into a solid head coach. I’m starting to learn a lot under him. He’s learned a lot from the last few years working under Sheensy.”
Doueihi, who has played every position except prop and second row in his eight-year career, has been training in the halves this pre-season, having completed 2025 as a halfback after Latu Fainu was injured.
The 27-year-old declined to comment on Richardson’s departure and the turmoil in the boardroom at the club, beyond insisting the Tigers were on the right track under Marshall.
“We couldn’t go back from where we were [as 2024 wooden spooners]said Doueihi.
“We have to keep climbing that ladder. We don’t have time to think or worry about any outside noise or anything else.”
“The more distracted you are, mentally and physically, you won’t be able to endure these pre-season days because the tougher it is.”
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