Rising NRL prodigy Cooper Bai, the 19-year-old son of former Melbourne Storm winger Marcus Bai, has dedicated to the Gold Coast Titans with a brand new contract extension. The powerhouse ahead turned down a possibility to hitch the Storm underneath legendary coach Craig Bellamy, prioritizing his improvement at his present membership.
Robust Preseason Efficiency
Bai secured the beginning lock position within the Titans’ 24-12 preseason trial victory over the Dolphins. He delivered a formidable exhibiting, recording 88 working meters, two sort out busts from 10 carries, and 21 tackles.
Causes for Staying with Titans
Titans coach Josh Hannay acknowledged the extreme recruitment battle, noting Bai had ‘a foot out the door’ at one level. Nonetheless, Bai highlighted the constructive cultural adjustments underneath Hannay as a key think about his choice.
“It was robust making the cellphone calls to my household, however they had been actually excited for me to proceed my journey right here,” Bai acknowledged. “My dad helps me so long as I am comfortable. I benefit from the coaching and every little thing right here, so staying felt proper. With the deal sorted, I entered the sport with out that strain.”
Bai expressed satisfaction with the teaching workers and teammates. “I am comfortable underneath Josh, the coaches, and the squad—that is what mattered most,” he added.
Future Flexibility
The 2-year extension features a participant possibility for the second season, probably permitting the Papua New Guinea worldwide to discover alternatives with the Chiefs upon their NRL entry in 2028. Bai dismissed hypothesis about that transfer, crediting his close-knit household and administration staff—whom he calls ‘one other pair of oldsters’—for guiding his decisions.
“They at all times prioritize my finest pursuits. I left the choice particulars to them,” Bai stated.
