Experience counts even when a team knows for a while it can’t make the NRL finals. Players who have been around the block a few times provide the leadership younger members of the team need when the going gets tough.
That’s why Wests Tigers will be a feeling a little better this week knowing experienced captain Apisai Koroisau is finally returning to the field of battle.
The Tim Sheens coached side is full of emerging youngsters, who will look to Koroisau to lead the way against the Newcastle Knights in the round 20 match at McDonald Jones Stadium.
Koroisau is returning after a long spell to recover from a broken jaw he suffered in the round 15 match against the Gold Coast Titans.
There’s more good news for Wests Tigers fans on the experience front, with forward Alex Twal returning from suspension.
Twal, who has played more than 100 games for the Tigers, returns to the side after serving a one-match ban for a dangerous contact offence.
A fan favourite, Twal is also still looking for his first try in the NRL, and fingers crossed he will get one up in the Hunter.
Will Smith holds his place at five-eighth after making his first appearance for the club last week in their 36-12 loss to the Sharks.
TEAM LIST:
1. Jahream Bula
2. Asu Kepaoa
3. Starford To’a
4. Tommy Talau
5. Junior Tupou
6. Will Smith
7. Brandon Wakeham
8. Stefano Utoikamanu
9. Apisai Koroisau (c)
10. David Klemmer
11. Isaiah Papali’i
12. John Bateman
13. Fonua Pole
INTERCHANGE:
14. Jake Simpkin
15. Shawn Blore
16. Alex Twal
17. Alex Seyfarth
