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BENJI Marshall is expected to switch codes at the end of the season after informing the Wests Tigers he would seek a release from the final two years of his contract.
Marshall, who returned from a mid-season holiday to Bali at the weekend, told the Tigers of his decision through his manager Martin Tauber this evening.
He will finish the season with the club before weighing up his options in the rival code. The NSW Waratahs loom as a realistic option, although it is understood Marshall has no firm plans in place.
His decision came as a shock to Tigers officials, although it was known Marshall had issues with the club over promises he felt were broken in regard to his contractual situation.
Tigers chief operating officer Grant Mayer praised Marshall's contribution to the Tigers he helped the side to the 2005 premiership.
"Benji has made his decision and chanced his hand by looking for another challenge in the sporting world," Mayer said.
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"We're obviously very disappointed and surprised. We had been given the indication that he was likely to stay. We made an extraordinarily competitive offer that would have made Benji one of our highest paid players.
"We were hopeful that he would help mentor the younger players coming through. But we respect his decision and know Benji will continue to play top-class football for the rest of the year."
Marshall had a handshake agreement in place to upgrade and extend his current deal, which expires at the end of 2015. However, when former chief executive Steve Humphreys parted ways with the club, the talks reverted to only an upgrade for the next two seasons.
The club was reluctant to commit to an extension beyond 2015 because Marshall's form this season had been below par. Marshall has said several times he would not play against the Tigers, meaning he is likely to explore his options in rugby.
He has already spoken to Auckland Blues coach John Kirwan and Tauber is expected to step up talks with Waratahs coach Mick Cheika.
"It's been a process for him in talking to his family and everybody and he reached a decision that it was time to make a change," Tauber said. "He told me tonight he loves the club, he has given 12 or 13 years, it's time for a new challenge."
Tauber reiterated Marshall would not consider playing against the Tigers.
http://www.theaustralian.com.au/spor...-1226679817039