Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall denies vaping claims as Adam Doueihi apologises for walkout
Coach Benji Marshall told the media that reports of Wests Tigers players vaping in the gym were "fabricated" and affirmed that no one vapes during training sessions. He added that while a vaping problem may exist among players, it is an issue the club must address.
Halfback Adam Doueihi, who walked out after being moved from his preferred position, later apologised to fans and teammates, returned to training and reaffirmed his commitment to his three‑year contract with the Tigers. He criticised a lack of accountability and professionalism at the club but said he had a constructive conversation with the coach and teammates.
The Tigers, who have not reached the finals since 2011, sit 16th on the ladder after a 56‑10 loss to the Raiders and a heavy defeat to Canberra. Marshall recalled Doueihi to the starting side for the upcoming match against the Eels, opting for him over rookie Javon Andrews.
Entities: Adam Doueihi · Benji Marshall · Wests Tigers
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how well corroborated each claim is across sources.
- [● 3 SOURCES] Benji Marshall said no players were vaping in the gym, calling media reports fabricated. (Benji Marshall)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Adam Doueihi apologized to fans and teammates after standing down from playing. (Adam Doueihi)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Marshall recalled Doueihi to the starting side against the Eels, dropping rookie Javon Andrews. (Team selection)
- [● 3 SOURCES] Marshall acknowledged that there may be a vaping problem among players. (Benji Marshall)
- [● 2 SOURCES] The Tigers lost 56-10 to the Raiders. (Match result)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Doueihi returned to Tigers training after his apology. (Adam Doueihi)
- [● 2 SOURCES] Doueihi is under a three‑year contract with the Wests Tigers. (Contract)
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The Tigers are 16th on the ladder in round 22 and have not played finals since 2011. (League standings)