Turuva spurns Chiefs to stay with Tigers

Wests Tigers have kept another player out of the clutches of the PNG (Papua New Guinea) Chiefs, locking down winger Sunia Turuva until the end of 2030.

Fijian international Turuva was originally off contract at the end of 2027, making him a potential target for the Chiefs who will enter the NRL in 2028.

Turuva has a close bond with Tigers co-captain Jarome Luai, who was unveiled as the Port Moresby-based franchise’s first signing late last month. But Turuva will not follow his former Penrith premiership-winning teammate to Papua New Guinea, penning a three-year extension.

“Tito (Turuva) brings so much to our team. He’s a huge character that adds so much energy to everything we do,” Tigers coach Benji Marshall said.

“He’s got a great work ethic and is a big driver of our standards. Tito is a leader within our group, not just through his voice but through his professionalism, competitiveness and team-first mentality.

“I’m really pleased to have Tito with us for the next four seasons. He’s growing as a player and we think his best is still to come.”

Turuva’s retention follows news Terrell May, Taylan May and full-back Jahream Bula have all re-committed to the Tigers since Luai’s move to PNG.

Turuva and Bula are definite start-ers for the Fiji Bati team in this year’s Rugby League World Cup.