‘Not Following in Jarome’s Footsteps’: Panthers Rising Star Embraces ‘Healthy’ Competition After Claiming No.6 Jersey

Emerging Panthers talent Jack Cole has expressed his enthusiasm for the “healthy competition” with new signing Blaize Talagi after being given the opportunity to don the No.6 jersey first.

Cole is set to step into the sizeable void left by Jarome Luai as the team prepares for their season opener in Las Vegas this Sunday afternoon (AEDT), lining up alongside Nathan Cleary in the halves.

At only 21, Cole has already gathered some first-grade experience with Penrith. However, with Luai’s exit following a successful stint, Cole is poised to make his mark as a regular starter for the reigning champions.

In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, the skilled five-eighth shared his thoughts on what makes this opportunity distinct from his previous ten NRL appearances.

“I’m determined to secure my place,” Cole stated.

“You’ve got to adopt that mindset. You can’t merely hope to play one week and then wish for the next.

“During the previous game styles, I was attempting to replicate the role of the player I was replacing. This time will allow me to showcase my own playing style.

“I’m not trying to emulate Jarome. I admire his game and have taken some elements from it to enhance mine… but ultimately, I’m focused on being myself.”

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Luai and Cleary formed a formidable halves partnership over the past five years, clinching four premiership titles from five consecutive grand finals.

Although many predicted Talagi—who enjoyed a standout rookie season with Parramatta—would fill the open role, Cole’s impressive pre-season performances earned him the nod for the clash against premiership contenders Cronulla.

Cole finds the competition for halves spots within the team to be beneficial.

“Talagi’s signing hasn’t phased me too much,” Cole remarked.

“I tend to thrive in competitive environments. We get along well, so it’s positive for the team, for me, and I believe for him as well.

“Up until about two weeks ago, no one was quite sure who’d occupy that position as I started training there more consistently. Early in pre-season, we were all informed about the open position, and that it was up for grabs.

“It’s been a great experience; I’ve built a good rapport with Blaize, and competing during training has been wonderful. It’s all very healthy competition, which is fantastic.”