The Wests Tigers have named a strong line-up for this Friday night's trial match against the Penrith Panthers at Leichhardt Oval. Coach Benji Marshall has named a 28-man squad for the side's second 2026 hitout, with new buys Bunty Afoa, Kai Pearce-Paul, Patrick Herbert, Jack Attard, and Mavrik Geyer set to feature.

At the same time, all eyes will be on last week's three-try hero, Heamasi Makasini, who will line up on the wing against the Panthers.

Ahead of the trial, Joel Helmes and Josh Burnell from the Wests Tigers Podcast caught up to preview the match. Some of the main talking points on this edition include:

• Api Koroisau's comments regarding the abilities of Makasini
• Why Fonua Pole needs to lift to another level this season
• The non-selection of Royce Hunt and Terrell May
• The high standards Kai Pearce-Paul wants to meet at our club
• Should we read more into Jack Attard being named at 15?
• Will Jock Madden play some hooker on Friday night?

The boys also discuss the new two-year deal for Patrick Herbert that was announced today by the club, and how a more harmonious and connected Wests Tigers team might help us make a finals spot in 2026.

And don't forget to join the Wests Tigers discussion today on the Wests Tigers Podcast Forum!

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/wests-tigers-podcast--6660380/support.