Happy Life: Roosters Secure Rugby League’s Power Couple
Rugby league’s dynamic duo Tommy Talau and Jess Sergis are now united at the Sydney Roosters, with Talau penning a one-year deal for 2026, marking a significant career and relationship milestone.
Talau, a versatile outside back, found himself unexpectedly off-contract after two seasons with Manly Sea Eagles. He enjoyed a standout 2024, notching a career-high 18 tries, but fell out of favour in 2025, featuring in just 13 matches. His move east continues a trend of Manly players joining the Roosters, following Daly Cherry-Evans’ shock switch, with Reuben Garrick set to arrive in 2027. Talau was spotted training at Moore Park on January 2, alongside young gun Hugo Savala, getting an early start with his new club.
While the Roosters boast one of the NRL’s most formidable backlines, making a starting spot tough for Talau unless injuries strike, he is poised to play a key role during the Origin period when Robert Toia and potentially Mark Nawaqanitawase are on representative duty.
The move also eliminates domestic awkwardness, recalling 2024 when Sergis faced a dilemma supporting her Roosters or Talau’s Sea Eagles in the finals. Sergis, contracted until 2027, remains one of the NRLW’s premier attacking threats.
“Tommy’s signature adds valuable depth and experience to our backline,” said Roosters head of recruitment Joel Carbone. “He’s a strong competitor who has shown consistency at NRL level, and we believe he’ll complement our existing talent.”
