I Signed 2 years Contract For $37.5 Million” With West Tigers’ Jarome Luai announce today

Penrith has made a decision regarding who will replace Jarome Luai for the World Club Challenge match against Wigan.

Despite Luai’s absence due to a shoulder injury suffered during the previous season, the Panthers are poised to make their first appearance in the competition’s history.

The head coach, Ivan Cleary, confirmed that Luai will not be participating in the match, emphasizing the importance of his ongoing recovery.

With Luai out, the coaching staff has evaluated several options to fill the void alongside Nathan Cleary in the halves.

Among the contenders were new recruits Daine Laurie and Brad Schneider. However, it’s young talent Jack Cole who has ultimately secured the position, earning praise from Cleary for his promise and performance during the pre-season.

Cole, who has recently signed with the Panthers until at least the end of the 2026 season, made his NRL debut in 2022 and has since demonstrated his potential through his involvement in the club’s pathway system. His selection reflects the Panthers’ commitment to nurturing and developing talent from within the organization.

As for Luai’s injury, he sustained a dislocated shoulder during a match against Parramatta in the previous season. Despite his efforts to return for crucial games, including the premiership win against the Broncos, ongoing concerns about his shoulder have led to his exclusion from the World Club Challenge.