Benji Marshall is likely to play Rugby Union in 2014 after asking for a release from the Wests Tigers from the remainder of his contract.
Marshall, who has been on a mid season holiday in Bali, informed the Tigers via his manager of his intentions. The Tigers are likely to grant him a release.
When Marshall negotiated his current contract with the Wests Tigers, for below his true market value, he had a deal in place that his contract figure would rise when the salary cap was raised. The Wests Tigers have decided against honouring their part of the deal.
People need to remember moments like this when players leave clubs and everyone asks “Where is the loyalty?”. Right now in Rugby League loyalty is a one way street. Players show loyalty to clubs when possible, but clubs are very quick to show players the door when it suits them.
If Marshall is lost to Rugby League it was be a disgrace. One of the most marketable players in the game, playing for a struggling club that is very poorly managed, Marshall wanted to end his career as a Wests Tiger.
It was not that long ago that the Wests Tigers had to pay has beens well over market value to attract anyone to the club. Benji Marshall joined a struggling Wests Tigers clubs and they build a premiership winning team around him.
For them to treat him like this is terrible. Players remember the way clubs treat their very best, and I’d suggest that this saga will make some players think twice before joining the Tigers. Especially the games elite players.
As for Benji Marshall, if he does switch to Rugby Union he will be a huge success. He will walk into rep teams and be a huge marketing tool they will be able to use. He will be well paid, he will be respected, and he will get everything he deserved from the game of Rugby League.
I just hope he changes his mind and is willing to play for another NRL club. I’d love to see him at m Penrith Panthers. I think the Brisbane Broncos should sell the farm to get him. There are teams all over the comp that would become contenders if they added Marshall to their lineup.
Not the Wests Tigers though…
People can talk up the Tigers youngsters all they like, why would any of them stay? Why would they commit a career to the clubs when they have just watched them screw over one of their very best?
Robbie Farah will be next.
Benji Marshall is one of my favourite Rugby League players of all time. He is a magician on the football field. He dragged some terrible Wests Tigers teams kicking and screaming to wins they had no right in getting. You could not have asked for more from a player.
Well done to Wests Tigers management. You just let one of the games best players walk out of your club….
do your research buddy… the Tigers honoured their end of the deal and offered Marshall $1.5 mil yesterday as he had wanted. It was Marshalls call to ask for a release. I’m sure everyone at the Tigers will be sad to see him leave. The club is in a rebuilding phase, but Marshall isnt the future of the club! The Tigers form over recent years is proof that a major shake up is needed at the club. New coach, new GM, new blood…. it’s time
Benji will always be remembered for the great things he has done for the Tigers and all the great things he has done for the game!