Blaize Talagi’s first meeting with his former club Parramatta already feels like a lifetime ago.
In truth, it’s only been a month, but since that win, both the Penrith Panthers and their young five-eighth have surged into form, and suddenly the dynasty looks alive again.
Now preparing to face the Eels for a second time on Sunday, Talagi finds himself no longer just a promising talent, but a key figure in Penrith’s push for a fifth-straight premiership. With several Origin-weary stars set to be rested in the coming weeks, much will rest on Talagi’s shoulders. And he’s ready.
“It’s such a good feeling, to get on a roll and get those four wins in a row,” Talagi said.
“It’s boosted my confidence and helped me play better, I’ll do anything to keep it going.”
Settled and fearless, Talagi finds his voice
After arriving from Parramatta over the summer and waiting until Round 6 for his first start at five-eighth, Talagi has made the role his own. He’s found rhythm alongside Nathan Cleary, sharpened his distribution, and continued to run the ball with brutal intent.
“There was no pressure on me, I could bide my time and when the time came... I wanted to take that spot and not go backwards and I think I’ve done that,” he said.
“I think I’m such a different player to when I arrived at the club. My footy brain has changed. Not the talent or the ability, but being able to see things and being clear.”
The 21-year-old’s combination with centre Casey McLean and winger Tom Jenkins has become one of Penrith’s most potent weapons—and against Canterbury, the trio passed their toughest test yet.
“Our combination has been growing each week... there’s no underestimating us,” Talagi said. “We can go on to do great things.”
It won’t be easy. History shows premierships are rarely won from outside the top four. But Talagi’s growth has mirrored Penrith’s late-season rise—and both look far from finished.