Bula to stay at the heart of Benji’s rebuild with bumper four-year Wests deal

Jahream Bula will stay with the Wests Tigers for at least the next four seasons, signing a mega deal with the club through to 2030. His re-signing comes just days after Benji Marshall’s resurgent squad also secured new deals for Taylan and Terrell May.

The Canterbury Bulldogs and St George Illawarra Dragons had both, at different stages, been very interested in signing the No.1, but the former has since re-signed their incumbent fullback, Connor Tracey, and the latter abandoned talks with Bula late on to instead prioritise — and eventually secure — Scott Drinkwater from the Cowboys.

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Bula, who is still just 24 years old, has been hot and cold for the Tigers over the years but has been steadily improving and is widely regarded as one of the biggest young stars in the game. Since debuting in 2023, the New Zealander has played 64 games in black and gold, scoring 28 tries. Through this season, he’s averaged 171 metres and made 26 tackle breaks.

The No.1 had been tempted to leave the club after the Holman Barnes Group civil war exploded around Christmas, but after several meetings with the Tigers (including Benji) and other clubs, decided that he wanted to stay in the rebuild.

“I’m really grateful for the opportunity to remain with the Tigers for the next four seasons,” Bula said.

“The culture and connection that we have as a group is special, and I’m excited to be part of what we’re building. I love being here, and I’m looking forward to growing my game under Benji and helping bring the club success.”

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Tigers coach Benji Marshall made it clear that re-signing Bula was a huge part of his rebuild plan, with it becoming even more important after Jarome Luai said he would be joining the Papua New Guinea Chiefs. “We’re really excited to have Jahream committed to the club long term. He’s someone who brings a lot to our group on and off the field with his leadership and influence.”

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“We’ve seen his development over the past few seasons, and we’re looking forward to what’s ahead for Jahream here at the Tigers,” the Wests Tigers coach continued. “He’s humble, hard-working and a great character to have around. I’ve really enjoyed seeing him grow in confidence and have great belief in what he can bring us over the next four years.

“We’re so happy to have Jahream and his family remain with us until 2030.”