'Whatever happens, happens': Papali'i coy over contract backflip speculation

Parramatta second-rower Isaiah Papali’i has refused to confirm where he will play in 2022 amid speculation he could back out of his three-year deal with the Wests Tigers.

The reigning Dally M second-rower of the year, Papali’i signed a contract in November to join the Tigers from 2023 but did so on the understanding he would be reuniting with his coach at international level, Michael Maguire.

Maguire has since been sacked from his post as head coach of the Tigers, who are on the bottom of the ladder.

Reports emerged this week that Papali’i was now reconsidering his move to the struggling club.

Eels coach Brad Arthur revealed at his captain’s run this week that the club would have the space to retain the New Zealand international if he chose to stay put.

After the Eels’ defeat of the Warriors on Friday night, Papali’i would not confirm he would be at the Tigers next season, but nor did he pledge his future to Parramatta.

“That’s not my focus at the moment,” he said.

“I want to make sure I put my best foot forward in this season that I have here by playing week to week and worrying about my job.

“Whatever happens, happens.”

On Thursday, the Tigers dispelled the uncertainty around their rebuild by announcing premiership-winning coach Tim Sheens would resume head coaching duties from next season.

The two most-capped players in Wests Tigers history, Robbie Farah and Benji Marshall, will serve as his assistants, with the latter set to take the reins as head coach from 2025.

“That’s great for the club,” Papali’i said.

“Obviously everyone was wondering who the coach would be so knowing what their plan is going forward is good for the club. I’m happy for them.”

Papali’i has built a relationship with Marshall through his international duties, just as he did with ex-Tigers coach Maguire.

“I’ve been in some camps with (Marshall) with the Kiwis,” Papali’i said.

“He’s a good mate … but that’s all I really have to say at the moment.”

Tigers five-eighth Adam Doueihi urged Papali’i to honour his contract, saying the joint venture had plenty to offer.

“We’re definitely a club on the rise,” he said.

“We’ve made another really good signing in (dual premiership-winning hooker) Api Koroisau for next year. And with Tim, Benji and Robbie coming on board, it’s only going to be good for us.

“If (Papali’i) comes, it’s definitely going to be a big boost for us on the edge.”