A former Wests Tigers forward, Justin Matamua, has been given a second chance to prove himself in the NRL, but this time with a rival team, the Canterbury Bulldogs. This news has sparked interest and controversy among fans and experts alike.
Matamua, a young and talented player, was released by the Tigers at the end of the 2025 season, leaving many fans disappointed as they had high hopes for his potential. With only 14 NRL games under his belt, Matamua didn't get the opportunity to showcase his skills at the first-grade level in 2025, which left many questioning his future in the league.
But here's where it gets interesting! Matamua has reportedly signed a train-and-trial contract with the Bulldogs for the 2026 pre-season. This move has raised eyebrows, as it offers him a fresh start with a cross-town rival. The contract details are intriguing; Matamua will earn a modest $1200 per week during the pre-season, but he'll have the chance to train full-time with the top squad and fight for one of the remaining spots on the team.
According to Zero Tackle's NRL squad tracker, the Bulldogs have limited space and salary cap flexibility for their 2026 Top 30 squad. With only four spots open, internal promotions seem likely. Players like Logan Spinks, Jack Underhill, and Jethro Rinakama, currently on the development list, could be promoted to fill these positions.
Matamua, standing at 187 centimeters, has the physical attributes and skills to make an impact. If he can unlock his potential at Belmore, he could be a strong contender for a spot in the starting 17 throughout the 2026 season. The club's starting middle will be bolstered by Leo Thompson, and Max King will join him in the front row, but the remaining positions are still up for grabs.
The battle for the lock position will be intense, with Kurt Mann and Jaeman Salmon vying for the spot. Additionally, players like Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes, Samuel Hughes, Jack Todd, Daniel Suluka-Fifita, and Finau Latu are all potential candidates for bench spots.
This story raises an important question: Can Matamua seize this opportunity and prove his worth to the Bulldogs? Will he be able to secure a spot on the team and make a successful comeback? And what does this mean for the future of the Canterbury Bulldogs' squad? These are the questions that will keep fans engaged and eager to see how this story unfolds.
So, what do you think? Will Matamua rise to the challenge and become a key player for the Bulldogs? Or will this be another missed opportunity? Share your thoughts and predictions in the comments below!
