Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall has found himself defending his relationship with playmaker Adam Doueihi amid reports of tension between the pair. Reports surfaced earlier this week indicating that Doueihi was unhappy following a tackle from Marshall during a training session as the team prepared for their round 16 match against Canberra. Sources suggest the exchange escalated into a heated disagreement.
Doueihi, who has yet to sign a contract for the upcoming season and has recently aligned himself with influential agent Isaac Moses, is expected to depart the club. Marshall approached inquiries about the alleged rift with a straightforward attitude but later implied that such questions arise primarily in response to the club’s struggles on the field.
“I won’t add fuel to something that’s not true,” Marshall clarified when pressed about their relationship. He emphasized that the questions about team dynamics were unfounded and reiterated they had no issues between them.
At just 40 years old, Marshall is the youngest coach in the NRL, being slightly younger than Cameron Ciraldo. He actively participates in training sessions, a practice he has maintained since he took over the coaching role. He explained that his involvement is a normal part of his coaching philosophy, arguing that it shouldn’t be a focal point.
The coach pointed out the importance of unity within the team, particularly during challenging times. “When you’re losing, these things come out… but inside these four walls as a playing group, we need to stay committed to our goals,” Marshall remarked, suggesting that criticism is amplified in times of defeat.
When asked why he adopts a hands-on approach in training compared to other coaches, Marshall became more defensive but maintained he is driven by a desire for the players’ success. He noted that the pressure he feels is solely related to wanting the club to thrive, asserting that coaching is a privileged role where outcomes dictate perception.
Marshall concluded the press conference after addressing repeated questions and even shared a video documenting the training incident with concerned journalists but opted against making the footage public.
Looking ahead, the Wests Tigers are set to face the Roosters this Sunday, with Doueihi slated to play as five-eighth, partnering with makeshift halfback Latu Fainu. The ongoing situation raises questions about the team’s morale and cohesion as they attempt to turn their fortunes around.