Benji Marshall has reinstated Lachlan Galvin into the Wests Tigers’ starting lineup for their clash against the Cronulla Sharks this Sunday, bringing the spotlighted 19-year-old back into the fold after a brief stint in the NSW Cup.
Galvin was summoned to a meeting with Marshall on Tuesday following the team’s tough loss to the Parramatta Eels, where Mitchell Moses delivered a standout performance. According to Code Sports, Marshall’s message to Galvin was clear: “We need to win, that’s why I’m picking you.”
Galvin will start at five-eighth alongside captain Jarome Luai, who shifts to halfback. Adam Doueihi, returning from long-term injury, will move from the halves into the centres for the upcoming fixture.
Marshall reportedly praised Galvin’s professionalism and positive attitude despite being temporarily demoted to play for Western Suburbs in the NSW Cup earlier in the week.
The young playmaker’s omission came amid tensions following his rejection of a record-breaking $6 million contract extension with the Tigers, citing concerns over his career progression under the current leadership, which includes club legend Marshall.
Legal Intervention and Mediation
Galvin’s legal representatives have now requested “urgent mediation” with Wests Tigers management to resolve ongoing disputes surrounding his place at the club.
Simon Berry, acting solicitor for Galvin, confirmed his firm’s involvement along with barristers Arthur Moses SC and Dilan Mahendra. “We’ve been in discussions with the Wests Tigers CEO and their legal representatives about various matters,” said Berry in a statement published by the Sydney Morning Herald. “We’ve proposed urgent mediation to address the issues constructively.”
Coach’s Call
Wests Tigers CEO Shane Richardson reaffirmed that Galvin’s return to the top squad was entirely at head coach Benji Marshall’s discretion, independent of any input from the club’s leadership group.
Asked whether Galvin needed to win back support within the squad, Richardson replied: “Benji Marshall is the head coach. He consults with the leadership group, but the final decision is his.”
“If Benji believes Galvin is the right choice to help beat Cronulla, then that’s his call,” Richardson said. “He picks the side he thinks gives us the best shot at victory.”
Richardson also expressed admiration for how Galvin handled his demotion. “He showed strong character in second grade last week. Some of the boys were there and saw it firsthand,” he noted. “He may not have had his best performance, but he gave it his all for 80 minutes.”
Why Galvin Was Dropped
Reflecting on the decision to drop Galvin ahead of the Eels match, Richardson said the emotional strain surrounding the situation played a role. “There was a lot going on — emotions were high — and Benji felt it was best for the team to go into that game without him,” he explained.
Now, with a clearer headspace and renewed focus, Galvin is back, and Richardson couldn’t be prouder. “We always trust Benji to pick the team he believes will win, and this week, that includes Lachlan.”
