Adam Doueihi has revealed he was on the verge of signing with the St George Illawarra Dragons for the next season but ultimately decided to extend his contract with the Wests Tigers for another two years. The talented utility player had been heavily linked to the Dragons, who were reportedly prepared to offer a more lucrative deal than the Tigers.
Doueihi’s skills could have significantly addressed gaps in the Dragons’ roster as Coach Shane Flanagan seeks to revitalise the team. His potential move was highly anticipated, but he ultimately prioritised his commitment to the Tigers, joining forces with Coach Benji Marshall in pursuit of the club’s first premiership in 20 years.
In a recent interview with 9News Sydney, Doueihi expressed his initial interest in the Dragons, noting, “There were a few times there where I was sort of close to going to the Red V.” However, he emphasised his loyalty to the Tigers, stating, “My heart has always been here. I’m a local junior, I’ve always loved the club and always wanted to stay.”
He conveyed satisfaction in finalising his new deal, highlighting the positive environment of the team. “I love being here, I love the group of players and I love being coached under Benji,” he commented, reflecting on his ongoing learning and development within the team structure.
With his re-signing, a pressing question remains regarding Doueihi’s permanent position in the Tigers’ lineup. The 27-year-old, recognised for his versatility, has played in various roles throughout his NRL career, a situation he acknowledged as both advantageous and challenging. He mentioned, “I’ve been thrown around literally every position throughout my career,” yet he feels equipped to flourish in any role, particularly enjoying participation in playmaking within the halves or a ball-playing lock position.
Recently, he has made strides in the halves, even leading the Tigers to an unexpected victory over the Bulldogs in Round 22, showcasing his capacity to influence the game. Discussions around potential long-term partnerships have emerged, particularly with players like Jarome Luai and Latu Fainu, as the Tigers look to solidify their future.
As Doueihi settles into his renewed role at the Wests Tigers, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how his journey unfolds, especially under the guidance of Benji Marshall and the evolving dynamics of the team. His commitment to the Tigers suggests a promising path ahead as they strive for glory in the upcoming seasons.