June 27, 2025, Sydney — The Parramatta Eels are under increasing pressure to complete a deal for Tallyn Da Silva, the highly-touted hooker for the Wests Tigers who is widely regarded as a budding star, as the NRL’s June transfer deadline draws near.
Both rugby league commentators and Eels fans have urged the team to sign Da Silva, who is referred to as a “class hooker,” in order to address their long-standing spina problem at No. 9.
Da Silva: The Ideal Hooker for Any Club
Da Silva, who is only 20 years old, has already made 21 NRL games and scored three touchdowns as a dummy-half. He has received praise for his vigour, passing ability, and composure under duress.
Despite Da Silva’s impressive start at the Tigers, veteran Api Koroisau, who is not only the starting hooker but is also negotiating a contract extension, is blocking his path and delaying Da Silva’s rise to first choice.
Due to this obstacle, Wests Tigers allowed him to communicate with five verified suitors, the Eels being one of the most notable.
Filling the Void Without Spine
Since Reed Mahoney left in 2022, Parramatta has had trouble successfully filling the hooker position. The dummy-half position hasn’t been very effective, and their reliance on a trio of Hands, Smith, and Lussick has resulted in erratic combinations.
In a recent live radio broadcast, Eels great Mark Geyer urged club executives to take decisive action:
