- Rising Apa Twidle will leave the Parramatta Eels at the end of 2026 after agreeing to a three-year deal with the new Perth Bears (joining in 2027).
- The deal is in a cooling-off period, but he’s expected to go ahead with it because the offer is significantly better.
- Twidle burst onto the scene with a standout debut (2 tries in 3 minutes), which attracted strong interest from multiple clubs.
- Parramatta reportedly only offered a low-value development contract (~$80k), while Perth provided better financial security and opportunity.
- A key factor: the Bears are offering him a chance to play in the halves, rather than being used as a utility/backline option.
- He becomes one of the early signings helping build the Bears’ inaugural squad under coach Mal Meninga.
Bottom line:
Parramatta unearthed a serious talent, but underpaid and under-positioned him—Perth stepped in with money, role clarity, and long-term security, and likely pinched him.
Replies
The blood sacrifices would soon be like the Monty Python song 'Brave Little Robin', where 'off with their heads' never ends?!
If we won a comp next year for example, who would get the praise? Ryles is would as he should but MON and co. Would get stuff all praise. It would be we won in spite of them.
And MON wouldn't care about praise either.
I would've copped a little bit overs for Russell. Loved watching his rise .hope I wasn't one who bagged him at start
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