Wests Tigers forward Isaiah Papali’i has been officially released from his contract and has signed with a new club for the 2025 NRL season.
Concluding his tenure with the Wests Tigers at the end of this season, the second-rower has inked a three-year deal with the Penrith Panthers, keeping him at the club until the end of the 2027 season.
A former Dally M Second Rower of the Year in 2021, Papali’i is approaching his 150th NRL game and has played internationally for New Zealand and Samoa.
His move to the Panthers follows the impending departure of front-rower James Fisher-Harris to the New Zealand Warriors and the club’s narrow miss in signing David Fifita.
“We’re thrilled to have secured Isaiah’s services for the next three seasons,” said Panthers Rugby League CEO Matt Cameron. “Isaiah brings a wealth of experience and leadership to our club, and he’s a world-class forward who has proven himself at the highest level.”
“Isaiah is a talented player, showcasing exceptional skills, a great attitude, and a strong work ethic,” added Panthers General Manager of Rugby League Shane Elford. “We believe he will thrive in the Panthers system and are eager to see his career progress with us.”
Papali’i joined the Tigers in 2023 from the Parramatta Eels, originally signing to play under Michael Maguire. However, he never got to play under Maguire, who was terminated by the club before Papali’i arrived. Instead, he played under Tim Sheens and Benji Marshall. Despite being one of the Tigers’ standout forwards, he has struggled to meet the high expectations set by his Dally M award.
“This decision is about improving our salary cap situation, which is not a simple task,” said Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson. “Effective salary cap management is crucial for success in the NRL, and it’s a complex puzzle that needs to be solved correctly.”
