Revealed: Wests Tigers’ desperate attempt to save $1.9m Isaiah Papail’i deal

Wests Tigers have rolled out the red carpet in a bid to convince star recruit Isaiah Papali’i not to renege on his $1.9m contract.

Isaiah Papali'i is preparing to turn his back on Wests Tigers. Picture: Jason McCawley/Getty

The desperate Wests Tigers are hoping a tour of the club’s $75 million Centre of Excellence is enough to sway Isaiah Papali’i from wanting out of the club.

Over the past two months, Papali’i has repeatedly raised concerns to his Parramatta teammates and officials about joining the Wests Tigers, particularly in the wake of Michael Maguire’s axing.

The Eels back-rower has made it clear to his closest confidantes that his preference is to stay at Parramatta, who have the salary cap space to keep him.

The Rugby League Players Association (RLPA) have also been across Papali’i’s situation the entire time.

Wary of their marquee signing’s cold feet, the Wests Tigers recently provided him with a VIP tour of their new facilities.

It was a strategic move to put the hard-running forward at ease.

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Isaiah Papali'i is preparing to turn his back on Wests Tigers. Picture: Jason McCawley/Getty

Picking up on Papali’i’s hesitation, at least one other club has inquired about his services.

However, Papalii would only be interested in staying at the Eels.

Due to the fact that Papali’i signed his three-year $1.9 million contract with the Tigers last November, the embattled club know they are on strong ground that the contract will stand.

Unlike other players who have backflipped on contracts in the past, Papali’i has no claim for compassionate grounds.

Papali’i is also renowned for his strong character and it is unlikely that he would go down the path of refusing to turn-up for training following the World Cup later this year.

The only other option would be for Parramatta and the Tigers to agree on a player swap.

Isaiah Papali'i (centre) has a strong relationship with his Eels teammates. Picture: Jonathan Ng

Papali’i was close with Maguire and reunited with the former Tigers coach while representing the Kiwis a fortnight ago.

Uncertainty over who will coach the Tigers has only added to Papali’i’s apprehension about making the move.

While Tim Sheens is expected to take over as head coach, Papali’i’s connection to the Tigers was Maguire.

The Wests Tigers were originally contacted by The Daily Telegraph last month about Papali’i’s concerns. They said in their most recent dialogue he had remained committed to the club.

Papali’i does have a relationship with Tigers assistant coaches Ben Gardiner and Nathan Cayless from time spent working together within the Kiwis squad.

No official release has been requested by Papali’i.

Wests Tigers CEO Justin Pascoe. Picture: Jason McCawley/Getty

The Tigers will feel frustrated by the issue going public, but it is one that has been developing for several months.

Following the club tour the Tigers are confident Papali’i will be in black and gold next year.

It is paramount for the club after losing a host back-rowers including Luke Garner (Penrith), Luciano Leilua (Cowboys) and Kelma Tuilagi (Manly).

The Tigers are banking on Papali’i and NSW hooker Api Koroisau to help turn the club’s fortunes around next season.
The reigning Dally M has played 102 top grade games since making his debut for the Warriors in 2017.

He has established himself as one of the game’s most damaging forwards after joining the Eels on a cut-price deal last season.