Penrith has confirmed one of the worst kept secrets in rugby league, announcing tonight that they’ve signed Cowboys prop James Tamou on a four year deal.
The Weekender can reveal that Tamou signed with the Panthers several weeks ago but the official announcement was carefully planned to ensure the New South Wales forward could tell his Cowboys team mates first.
There was no fanfare surrounding tonight’s announcement with the club issuing a carefully worded, two paragraph statement.
“Penrith Panthers are delighted to confirm James Tamou has decided to join the club on a four-year deal commencing in 2017,” the statement said.
“Out of respect for James and the North Queensland Cowboys, the Panthers will make no further comment on the matter until the conclusion of the current season.”
Tamou is currently in camp with the Blues preparing for Origin II next week.
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
