Alex Twal, a forward for the Wests Tigers, recently made a significant decision about his future that will keep him committed for a while.
Twal has signed a new, long-term contract with the Wests Tigers that will keep him with the team through at least the conclusion of the 2027 NRL season. He was already under contract for the upcoming season.
Twal and the Tigers made this decision because he was recently associated with the Canterbury Bulldogs after it was claimed that he had been given permission to communicate with other teams.
Reports also emerged linking him to a potential player swap with the Manly Sea Eagles involving Sean Keppie. However, Keppie is likely to sign with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.
“This club means so much to me and I’m just so happy to extend my stay long-term,” said Twal in a club statement.
“I made my NRL debut here at Wests Tigers and it feels like family.
“We have so much still to achieve as a club and a team, and so do I as a player. I can’t wait to put 2023 behind us and rip into pre-season training in a few weeks.”
The forward made his NRL debut with the Wests Tigers in Round 17 of the 2017 season and has since gone on to make 124 appearances for the club in seven seasons.
The cult hero, who scored his firt NRL try during 2023, has been a mainstay in the Tigers side over recent seasons as either prop or lock. However, there is a view from some within the club that the modern game is simply too quick for the 27-year-old.
That said, he has excellent mentor qualities for a crop of young forwards who will be keen to impress in 2024 as the Tigers take a new direction under rookie head coach Benji Marshall.
Head coach Benji Marshall is extremely happy to see Twal re-sign with the club and believes that his consistency is key to the future long-term success of the Tigers.
“He works hard, prepares well, and delivers consistently week in, week out,” said Marshall.
“He is a big part of the Wests Tigers family, and we love his commitment and loyalty to our club.
“It’s great to have Alex here for the long haul, and we can’t wait to see him continue to improve his footy here at Wests Tigers.”
CEO Justin Pascoe agreed, saying the 27-year-old has demonstrated his worth for a period of years both on and off the field.
Pascoe said, “We’re thrilled to lock in a new long-term arrangement with Alex and his family.
“Alex will now join a limited group of athletes who have played for Wests Tigers for ten years or more thanks to this new deal. That is very telling.
