Perth Bears Face Contract Uncertainty Ahead of NRL Debut
The Perth Bears are preparing for their inaugural season in the National Rugby League (NRL), but they are facing a significant challenge as three key players have clauses in their contracts that could see them leave before the end of their deals. This revelation has added an element of uncertainty to the club’s plans as they work towards finalizing their squad for the 2027 season.
Currently, the Bears have secured 16 players for the upcoming campaign, with 14 more spots still to fill on their roster. Among the most notable signings are Nick Meaney from the Melbourne Storm, Siosifa Talakai from the Cronulla Sharks, and several Super League stars, including former Bulldogs player Toby Sexton. The trio of Tyran Wishart (Melbourne Storm), Liam Henry (Penrith Panthers), and Josh Curran (Canterbury Bulldogs) are also part of the list of potential additions.
Player Options Create Uncertainty
News Corp has reported that all three of these players have “get out clauses” in their contracts, commonly referred to as player options. These clauses allow the players to decide whether they want to continue with the club after a certain period.
Tyran Wishart has signed the longest deal with the Bears, a five-year contract running from 2027 through to the end of 2031. However, it has been revealed that the final year of his contract is not guaranteed, as he holds an option in his favor. Despite this, the Bears will get four confirmed years from the emerging talent, who is expected to play either as a five-eighth or hooker in the club’s inaugural team.
It is unclear exactly what position the club envisions for Wishart at this stage, although it is likely that he will be paired with Toby Sexton, who is set to join from the Catalans Dragons. The Bears are still in talks with other halfbacks and have yet to secure a specialist hooker for their first season.
Liam Henry’s Contract Terms
Liam Henry, who is expected to lead the club’s forward pack after leaving the Penrith Panthers, has signed a four-year deal that runs through to the end of 2030. However, the final two years of his contract are subject to an option in his favor, meaning he may only play for the club for two seasons.
Henry is currently expected to start as a prop alongside Mikolaj Oledzki. The club missed out on other potential props due to negotiations only starting in November, including Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, who re-signed with the Gold Coast Titans.
Josh Curran’s Contract Situation
Josh Curran, another key signing, is expected to start at lock but could also play in the second-row or at prop. He has signed a contract that runs until the end of 2029, but only the first two seasons are locked in, with the remaining two years subject to an option in his favor.
These contractual uncertainties add an extra layer of complexity to the Bears’ preparations as they look to build a competitive squad for their debut season in the NRL. With several positions still open and key players under contract terms that allow for early exits, the club will need to navigate these challenges carefully to ensure a strong start in 2027.
