Squad Strategy: Anticipated Wests Tigers Lineup for Round 1 and Overview for 2024

Squad Strategy: Anticipated Wests Tigers Lineup for Round 1 and Overview for 2024…

Following consecutive seasons at the bottom of the ladder, Wests Tigers are resetting for 2024 under new head coach Benji Marshall and the inclusion of seven new players.

While attention has been on the signing of Jarome Luai for 2025, the revamped Concord side aims to demonstrate that their future success begins now as they strive to rise from the NRL standings.

Experienced playmaker Aidan Sezer and emerging talent Jayden Sullivan are likely to be given the first opportunity to revitalize the Tigers’ offensive, but the 18-year-old Latu Fainu, on a four-year deal, poses a constant threat, keeping the playmakers on their toes during preseason.

Competition intensifies among the outside backs with the addition of Dally M Centre Justin Olam and promising U/19s Origin star Josh Feledy. Olam’s winning culture and significant NRL experience make him a crucial asset for the Tigers backline.

In the season opener, Olam is expected to play alongside injury-prone Brent Naden and 2023 breakout star Starford To’a, who will compete for a spot to partner with the Storm star.

Exciting fullback Jahream Bula, who averaged 159 meters per game and broke 59 tackles in his rookie season, is poised to claim the No.1 jersey.

Returning recruits Api Koroisau, David Klemmer, and John Bateman, eager to bring success to the long-suffering fans, will play their second season in the black, white, and orange.

Predicted Round 1 Lineup:
– Jahream Bula
– Charlie Staines
– Justin Olam
– Starford To’a
– Junior Tupou
– Aidan Sezer
– Jayden Sullivan
– Stefano Utoikamanu
– Api Koroisau
– David Klemmer
– Isaiah Papali’i
– John Bateman
– Fonua Pole
– Samuela Fainu
– Alex Twal
– Asu Kepaoa
– Justin Matamua

Key Changes:
Ins: Latu Fainu (Sea Eagles), Samuela Fainu (Sea Eagles), Jayden Sullivan (Dragons), Aidan Sezer (Leeds Rhinos), Solomon Alaimalo (Super Rugby), Justin Olam (Storm).
Outs: Luke Brooks (Sea Eagles), Tommy Talau (Sea Eagles), Daine Laurie (Panthers), Shawn Blore (Storm), David Nofoaluma (released).

Injury Update:
Adam Doueihi (knee, indefinite)

Players to Watch:
With fresh faces at both five-eighth and halfback, the Wests Tigers aim to stand out as the only team with new playmakers. All eyes will be on the 2024 halves pairing of Super League recruit Aidan Sezer and Dragons youngster Jayden Sullivan. The club is optimistic about the potential of emerging playmakers Latu Fainu and Lachie Galvin, both 18 years old, possessing exceptional pace and ball skills. The chosen halves duo must perform well from the start to stave off the competition from these promising young talents.