NRL star Jarome Luai gives ‘greatest compliment’ to ex-Wigan Warriors man

Departing Penrith Panthers star Jarome Luai has hailed ex-Wigan Warriors man Morgan Smithies.

The 27-year-old has been stand-off for the Panthers’ four Premiership wins in a row, and will line up for Samoa against England at the Brick Community Stadium this week.

He has signed for Wests Tigers ahead of 2025 on a huge five-year deal, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season, and is undoubtedly one of the sport’s biggest stars right now.

Luai also played in all three games for New South Wales in their State of Origin series victory this year.

NRL superstar Jarome Luai gives “greatest compliment” to ex- Wigan Warriors man

Speaking to media this week ahead of his national side’s game against England, Luai spoke about Morgan Smithies, who left Wigan Warriors for NRL side Canberra Raiders for the 2024 season.

In his debut campaign Down Under, Smithies made 24 appearances at loose-forward after over 100 for the Cherry and Whites.

“Morgan has got a bit of dog in him, he likes to get in your face,” he said. “I like that in any player.

“It’s what the game is about. He loves getting his hands dirty. He’s definitely a player that players would love to play with, I think that’s the greatest compliment you can get as a rugby league player.”

Luai also complimented the Warriors’ home crowd having played at the Brick Community Stadium earlier this year in the World Club Challenge, saying: “I sort of compared that atmosphere to State of Origin.

“A hostile environment is something that I love and that players thrive in. I hope we get one of those receptions this weekend, because I know it’ll help bring the best out of our team.”

RFL chiefs expect a crowd of over 15,000 for this weekend’s game, which is the first of a two-game series.