Mayday for Wests Tigers: How Luai move could lure brothers to PNG

So it wasn’t just a reccy.

Following his covert trip to Port Moresby on the weekend, star NSW and Samaon playmaker Jarome Luai is indeed off the PNG Chiefs in 2028.

Read more Diego Pavia contract details: Why Ravens signed Vanderbilt QB to surprising three-year deal

Powered by the lure of tax-free dollars, Luai’s signature a stunning coup for the NRL’s 19th franchise and one that puts the rest of the competition firmly on notice.

While particularly disappointing for the revitalised Wests Tigers, given Luai will now only play three of the five years in his original contract at Concord, the decision could have far broader implications for the joint venture club than just Luai himself.

MORE: NRL 2026 team lists — Every side’s confirmed lineup for Round 9

Coupled with the signing of Willie Peters as PNG Chiefs head coach, it raises a very real risk that the Tigers could lose two more of their biggest stars to the Chiefs.

Terrell and Taylan May are both contracted with the Wests Tigers until the end of the 2027 NRL season, meaning they are free to negotiate with rival clubs from November 1 this year for the 2028 season.

But the big twist is Willie Peters.

‘I would be lying if I said I didn’t want my brothers to play with me’

The May brothers have long, and very publicly, voiced their desire to one day play in the NRL with their older brother Tyrone, 29, who has been in the English Super League since 2022—most recently playing under incoming PNG head coach Peters at Hull KR.

Read more 3 Rich Chickens Slot Review

“I would be lying if I said I didn’t want my brothers to play with me, that’s the goal,” Terrell May declared at the start of the 2025 NRL season, a message he has reiterated on his May Day podcast.

“Speaking to the boys with brothers in the team they’re like it’s the best feeling ever and one day I want to achieve that.” 

If the Chiefs were to offer Tyrone a contract for 2028 on the recommendation of Peters, it could easily become part of a wider May brothers package deal and their family dream could suddenly become a reality. 

Of course for Benji Marshall and the Tigers it would be more of nightmare should three of their most influential players depart at the same time.

Officially nothing will be able to be confirmed until at least November 1, but it’s something to watch closely.

Read more Ukraine Regulator Pulls Cosmolot’s Online Casino License and Fines Company

Mayday, indeed.