Jarome Luai may be absent in the Panthers’ hunt for a fifth consecutive premiership but his youthful successor is not shying away from learning from the star he will replace.
Blaize Talagi signed a three-year deal with Penrith after a sensational rookie season with the Parramatta Eels.
The 19-year-old is confident he will fill the hole left by the Tigers-bound five-eighth – who he is currently working with in Samoan camp ahead of the nation’s England tour – and join Nathan Cleary in the halves.
READ MORE: Bella Nipotina wins the Everest in nail-biting finish
READ MORE: Healy’s sorrow as Aussies part way with T20 title
READ MORE: US rival baits Tszyu before world title weigh-in
Talagi’s versatility on the field provides Panthers coach Ivan Cleary the opportunity to position him as either the successor of winger Sunia Turuva or Luai.
But the youngster states he has his mind set on one position.
“It is (five-eighth) where I’d like to play, for sure,” he said in The Sydney Morning Herald.
“But I’m happy to play anywhere, to be honest… I want to just work hard and earn it.”
The Panthers have access to Jack Cole and Brad Schneider to fulfill the five-eighth jersey in 2025, but both men will face a battle with Talagi.
Talagi’s selection into the Samoan national team not only is a chance to honour his culture but also a time where Talagi can learn from the knowledge of Luai.
“All the sixes look up to the top guys in the game,” Talagi said.
“Jarome’s one of them and he does so many things I can learn from him.
“I’m looking forward to being a real sponge and taking in a lot of things from him. He’s definitely someone to look up to and a leader of the group.
“He’s played with Nathan for so long and whatever I can learn from him, I’ll take in. I’m looking forward to it.
“He’s left a good club and I’m looking forward to going over there and just working hard and keeping my head down.”
Having yet to face the challenge and pressure of donning Penrith’s No.6 jersey, the young gun has received strong endorsement from Luai.
”My shoes? No one can fill these shoes, brother,” Luai said.
“I’ve seen what he (Talagi) can do on the field. He’s a lot quieter than I am; hopefully I can bring that out in camp, he can let his hair down and be himself around the boys.
“He’s got strike with the ball and he’s got the talent to make things happen out of nothing. He’s one to watch for the future.”
Talagi declared he is “ready to be a sponge” working alongside Luai, who said he is happy to provide guidance on the strategies and style of partnering with Cleary.
“That’s what I’m here for,” the four-time premiership-winner said.
“I think the best players are happy to share their experiences with the younger generation and be better as well.
“That’s what I want to do as a leader.”