NRL Blockbuster: Luai Faces Former Partner Cleary as Tigers Host Panthers

A highly anticipated NRL clash will see former premiership-winning halves partners Nathan Cleary and Jarome Luai go head-to-head as the Wests Tigers host the Penrith Panthers.

The game is the first of a doubleheader, with the Sharks taking on the Dragons in the later fixture. Both teams are looking to build momentum, with the Dragons seeking to capitalize on their first win of the season last week.

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Loyalty is a two-way street. It means everything, it's what you want your players to be.

Adding another layer of intrigue to the Tigers' lineup is prop Terrell May, who has been vocal about his experiences in the NRL. Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall has publicly backed May's outspoken approach, encouraging him to continue speaking his mind. May recently appeared on the Unscripted podcast, sharing his frustrations about his career trajectory and perceived unfair treatment.

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As a game, we want players to be honest and express themselves and be who they are, and then when they are who they are and tell the truth, we don't like it.

May, who was controversially cut by the Sydney Roosters in 2024, expressed uncertainty about why he hasn't been considered for the NSW State of Origin team despite his strong performances for the Tigers. He also alleged that he and his brother Taylan had been blacklisted by the NRL's social media team, a claim that League Central has denied. May emphasized his loyalty to Marshall and the Tigers, stating that loyalty is a two-way street.

Adding further spice to the encounter, May accused Penrith Panthers' chief executive Matt Cameron of referring to him as a "gangster" during a meeting in 2022 when discussing a potential move to the Panthers. Marshall, however, champions May's honesty, stating, "As a game, we want players to be honest and express themselves and be who they are, and then when they are who they are and tell the truth, we don't like it." He affirmed his support for May being himself and expressing his feelings.

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One thing that I love about Terrell is and what we want [is for] him to be himself and express himself. He tells the truth and sometimes people don't like that, but that's who Terrell is and we love that part of him.