The Gold Coast Titans are considering deploying Kieran Foran off the bench to start the NRL season, mirroring the role Benji Marshall played during the final year of his career.
Foran, now 34, was the Titans’ halfback last season but underwent ankle surgery at the end of the campaign and has yet to participate in field training with the squad. With their season set to begin on March 16 against Canterbury following a first-round bye, the Titans aim to start strongly after two pre-season trials.
A shift to the No. 14 utility role would allow coach Des Hasler to accommodate emerging talent in the spine positions while managing Foran’s heavily worn body. The veteran has endured 17 surgeries over his 17-year career, the latest repairing ruptured ankle ligaments. The move could also prolong Foran’s playing career, with the Kiwi international under contract until 2025 and open to continuing into 2026.
If the plan materializes, rising stars Jayden Campbell and AJ Brimson, who have been training in the halves, are expected to take key playmaking roles. Foran’s experience and versatility could make him a significant asset off the bench, similar to Marshall’s stint at South Sydney in 2021, where his game sense and adaptability helped propel the Rabbitohs to the grand final.
Foran is no stranger to the No. 14 jersey, having played in that role for New Zealand during the 2022 World Cup and excelling as a hooker in the Kiwis’ Pacific Cup victory over Australia. Hasler previously considered using Foran at hooker in 2021 during their time together at Manly but ultimately kept him at five-eighth.
The Titans have already made strategic decisions regarding their roster, with Keano Kini locked in as fullback for 2024, effectively ending Campbell and Brimson’s chances of returning to that position. Meanwhile, the “Brimson to center” experiment, which failed last season, has been shelved.
Latrell Mitchell’s New Look
Latrell Mitchell is preparing for the new season with renewed determination after a disappointing 2024 campaign saw South Sydney finish 16th. The star fullback has returned to pre-season training noticeably leaner and has reconnected with coach Wayne Bennett, aiming to recapture the form that took the Rabbitohs to the 2021 grand final.
Terrell May’s Marathon Effort
Wests Tigers recruit Terrell May is embracing his reputation as an endurance athlete, setting his sights on playing 80 minutes in the middle under coach Benji Marshall. The former Roosters prop, known for his durability, showcased his mental toughness by running a marathon during the off-season, despite minimal preparation.
May’s goal is to lead a young Tigers forward pack while catching the attention of new NSW coach Laurie Daley for a potential State of Origin call-up. With his endurance and drive, May aims to elevate his game in 2025 and help steer the Tigers out of their recent struggles.
