Benji’s big recruitment coup as Tigers reportedly win race for star brothers

The Tigers have landed a stunning signing coup, with reports revealing a major bid to add an experienced coack to their ranks.

DAILY TELEGRAPH 17TH JULY 2023 Pictured at West Tigers training at Concord Oval in Sydney is assistant coach Benji Marshall. Picture: Richard Dobson

The Tigers have reportedly sealed the signatures of a pair of rising stars as a plan for the merger club to add an experienced coach to its ranks has been revealed.

According to Danny Weidler of 9 News, the Tigers have secured deals for brothers Latu and Samuela Fainu.

The SMH earlier reported that the club had offered four-year deals to both players, who starred for NSW in their Under 19s State of Origin victory on Thursday night.

BREAKING: Some much needed good news for the Wests Tigers. They have secured the talented Fainu brothers Latu and Samuela. Good get for head of recruitment Scott Fulton. And a positive for Benji. @9NewsSyd@NRLonNine

— Danny Weidler (@Danny_Weidler) July 19, 2023

Latu, an 18-year-old playmaker, previously signed the richest deal ever by a player yet to feature in the NRL when he joined the Sea Eagles, but both he and his 19-year-old brother were given permission from Manly to test the open market.

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Crucial to their signing success is a plan from Tigers powerbrokers to add an experienced coach to their ranks, something that the SMH reports has convinced leading player agents - including of the Fainu brothers - to put their faith in the merger club’s vision.

The news comes after assistant Benji Marshall pitched how he wants to the club to be shaped in the coming years to Wests bosses, with head coach Tim Sheens in on the meeting.

Marshall is in line to become to take over from Sheens in 2025 after completing a two-year apprenticeship under the former premiership winner.

“Benji’s skill is in identifying strengths and weaknesses in the club especially in our playing roster and addressing those challenges,” Tigers boss Lee Hagipantelis said to News Corp.

“His football IQ continues to impress and he has exceeded all our expectations in terms of his development as a future head coach.

“He has a vision for the club. I could not have been more impressed with his commitment and his passion and his drive to turn this club around.”

Justin Holbrook has reportedly firmed as the club’s priority target to bolster their coaching ranks after he was sacked by the Titans.

The experienced coach would be signed to assist Marshall’s transition to head coach, not replace the former Tigers, Rabbitohs and Dragons playmaker.

While the Tigers have reportedly signed former Raiders halfback Aidan Sezer, the club currently is without a fit No.6 or 7 for the 2024 season.

While Marshall was celebrated by Hagipantelis for his presentation to club powerbrokers, veteran rugby league reporter Buzz Rothfield was less impressed.

He believes fans and members should hear what the current assistant is planning for the future, having battled through several turbulent seasons.

Rothfield also pointed to Sheens’ media presence and the lack of access to Marshall as an assistant.

“Shame that Benji doesn’t explain his vision to members and fans instead of Tim Sheens doing all the media and press conferences,” Rothfield tweeted.

Originally published as Benji’s big recruitment coup as Tigers reportedly win race for star brothers