‘Heart and soul of this team’: Big win for the Wests Tigers as Api Koroisau agrees to long-term extension

The Wests Tigers have locked in one of their most important puzzle pieces on a new deal that could convince some of his teammates to stay.

The Wests Tigers have locked in the “heart and soul of the team” after co-captain Api Koroisau agreed to a new deal that will keep him at the club until the end of the 2028 season.

It’s a huge boost for coach Benji Marshall, who said recently that the club was all in on the veteran hooker after it emerged that young gun Tallyn Da Silva was leaving to join the Eels so he could get more opportunities in first grade. The Tigers also had to deal with Lachlan Galvin leaving to join the Bulldogs.

Koroisau, 32, has won three titles and remains one of the craftiest hookers in the NRL and a key figure for the Tigers who are continuing to build a new identity under Marshall.

He joined the club in 2023 after a very successful stint at Penrith, with the former NSW dummy-half a shining light in a team that has struggled on and off the field.

It's an API day 🤩 Our Skip has officially locked in his extension ✍️

Read more 🔗 https://t.co/395gAnK0DT#OneJungle 🐯 pic.twitter.com/ML5S7YmW2j

— Wests Tigers (@WestsTigers) July 22, 2025

“This club has become family to me. I’ve felt nothing but support from the players, staff, and especially Benji – he’s someone I really admire and enjoy playing under,” Koroisau said.

“I’m stoked to re-sign and can’t wait to help lead this team for a few more years.”

The news comes a week after the club re-signed Tristan Hope, who will move into the top 30 squad, with Koroisau to remain their main man for the next three seasons.

The contract extension also means new franchises can’t go after him, while his decision to stay could play a key role in keeping stars or enticing others to join the club.

“Api is a great player but more so he is the heart and soul of this team,” Marshall said.

“His leadership, experience and energy are invaluable. Having him commit to our future is massive for the direction we are heading in.

“We are thrilled to have him and his wonderful family here long term.”

Originally published as ‘Heart and soul of this team’: Big win for the Wests Tigers as Api Koroisau agrees to long-term extension