Warrington Wolves are set for a major season of change with the arrival of Sam Burgess as head coach and plenty off new recruits, however one of those new signings is already attracting NRL interested despite not playing a game for the Wolves.
Rodrick Tai signed for the Wire at the end of August, whilst the season was still ongoing, with the centre penning a one year deal and joining from Queensland Cup side Papua New Guinea Hunters.
The switch to Warrington saw Tai sign his first professional contract given he Hunters are still a reserve grade team in Australia, however the 24-year-old was already a full international with PNG’s Kumuls.
Tai represented the Kumuls in the World Cup last year and it’s his performances on the international stage that have attracted more interest from clubs.
Per NRL.com the centre has sparked interest from NRL clubs following his impressive performances during the end of season Pacific Bowl games.
The Dolphins, the NRL’s new side, is with whom Tai has sparked the most interest with the team currently coached by Wayne Bennett whilst Kristian Woolf serves as assistant.
Tai worked with the Dolphins in pre-season ahead of the 2023 campaign but ultimately didn’t make the team’s 30, instead returning to the Hunters who he scored 14 tries for across his 34 appearances.
In the World Cup last year the centre scored two tries in his four appearances as he bagged a brace against the Cook Islands, however he was able to display his powerful play style as he racked up an average of 129 metres per game.
Upon signing for Warrington back in August, Tai said: “I’m very excited. It’s a huge move for me to be joining a great club in Warrington.
“Sam [Burgess] called me and said there’s an opportunity. Even him calling was huge for me! I’m looking forward now to giving my all in pre-season, working hard and playing my part next year.
“During the World Cup with PNG we stayed in Warrington so there’ll be some familiarities there for me. It was a great experience for us Kumuls and myself and my family can’t wait to come back over to the town.”
The Dolphins have already recruited the likes of England star Herbie Farnworth to their centres this off-season, however with Tai having only signed a one year deal with the Wire then it’s possible a move could still be on the cards in 2025, especially if he flourishes during his time in England.
