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Benji Marshall
Benji Marshall
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Benjamin Quentin Marshall CNZM (born 25 February 1985) is a New Zealand professional rugby league coach who is the head coach of the Wests Tigers in the NRL and a former rugby league footballer.

Key Information

He played at five-eighth or halfback for the Wests Tigers in two separate spells, St. George Illawarra Dragons, Brisbane Broncos and South Sydney Rabbitohs in the National Rugby League (NRL), and at representative level for the NRL All Stars and New Zealand Kiwis.[3]

Marshall was also briefly a professional rugby union player with the Blues in Super Rugby.

Marshall played for fourteen seasons in the NRL for Sydney club Wests Tigers, with whom he won the 2005 NRL Premiership. He has been noted for his flamboyant attack, including sidesteps,[4] no-look passes[5] and flick-passes.[6] In 2010 Marshall won the Golden Boot Award for the best international player.[7]

In 2022, Marshall signed a five-year deal to become an assistant coach of Wests Tigers under Tim Sheens, with Marshall succeeding Sheens as head coach ahead of 2025 season after Sheens' impending retirement.[8]

Early life

[edit]

Marshall was born in Whakatāne, New Zealand. He is of Māori descent. He is the eldest of three brothers, and the elder brother of New Zealand Māori international Jeremy Marshall-King.[9] He was raised without his biological father, but has spoken of the influence of his foster-father Michael Doherty,[10] and other men within his extended family. He has said he had, "10 or 11 fathers … which is not a bad thing."[11]

Marshall attended Whakatane High School.[12] He was offered a scholarship to play for Keebra Park State High School in Gold Coast, Queensland when he was 16. While living on the Gold Coast, he played junior rugby league for the Nerang Roosters.[13] While in high school in Australia, Marshall played for the Australian Schoolboys team in 2003,[14] and also represented Australia in touch football that same year.[15] Although eligible to represent Australia, Marshall declared his allegiance to the New Zealand Kiwis early in his career.[16]

Rugby league career

[edit]

Wests Tigers (2003–2013)

[edit]

In Round 20 of the 2003 NRL season, Marshall made his NRL debut for the Wests Tigers against the Newcastle Knights, coming on as a replacement in the 14th minute as fullback. The Wests Tigers won the match 52–12 at Campbelltown Stadium.[17] Marshall continued to make appearances for Wests Tigers for the remainder of 2003 when his studies allowed, playing halfback. In Round 24 against the Penrith Panthers, Marshall scored his first NRL try in the Tigers' 44–28 loss at Penrith Stadium.[18] He scored one try from four appearances in his debut season.

In 2004, Marshall starred in the pre-season World Sevens competition helping the Wests Tigers to win the tournament.[19] He began the season playing at centre until he dislocated his shoulder in Round 4 against the North Queensland Cowboys.[20][21] During his time off the Tigers struggled in attack. When he returned after four weeks, he was moved to the play-making position of five-eighth. From there, Marshall set the club on a record 3 match winning streak. He dislocated the same shoulder four weeks into his return in Round 13.[22] Marshall's season ended as he had surgery, finishing the year with 2 tries from 7 matches.

In 2005, Marshall injured his other shoulder in the opening minutes of the first trial match. After missing the opening round match, Marshall played five-eighth for the club's second match of the year against defending premiers, the Bulldogs. With an injury free run, Marshall demonstrated a passing, running, and kicking game to complement his stepping. He was able to score individual tries and set up tries for his team-mates. Marshall also made his New Zealand debut in the 2005 ANZAC Test. Marshall was a member of the Wests Tigers that defeated North Queensland Cowboys in the 2005 NRL grand final, where he famously set up a 90-metre try to Pat Richards, which was considered to be one of the best tries of grand final history.[23] The try involved a trademark 'flick pass', at about the 50-metre line to Richards. Marshall was named as New Zealand five-eighth for the 2005 Tri Nations tour. However, surgery on his weak shoulder in the off-season ruled him out and he also missed the 2006 World Club Challenge.

"Benji equals anybody I've seen in terms of flair, and making something happen. He is a remarkable talent, born out of living on the edge. That's the way he is. He was made to be a footballer."

-Wayne Bennett[24]

Marshall made his comeback from surgery against St George Illawarra in round 1, but broke his cheek bone.[25] He played the rest of the match and set up the winning try.

Making his comeback against the Cowboys, in the 79th minute he was injured by Cowboys prop Carl Webb.[25] He popped his shoulder out but recovered in three weeks, playing for New Zealand in the ANZAC test. Eight weeks into his come-back he dislocated the same shoulder that had been dislocated against North Queensland, and he missed the rest of the season.

Marshall kicking the ball in a match against the Newcastle Knights.

In 2007, Marshall again made his comeback from injury against the Melbourne Storm in Round 1. Marshall had to adapt to changes within the team such as the departure of halfback, Scott Prince, and the added responsibility of goal kicking while fullback, Brett Hodgson, was recovering from a knee injury. The Daily Telegraph later said, "Marshall had to become something else, he had to become an organiser, a dictator, a tactician. This never came naturally to him but he made himself into that type of player because he had to do it."[26]

Marshall was selected to play for New Zealand at five-eighth in the 2007 ANZAC test, kicking one goal in the 6–30 loss.[27] In round 8, Marshall sustained a fractured shoulder in a tackle where his arm was jammed between Melbourne's Israel Folau and the Tigers' Taniela Tuiaki, and didn't return until round 20. Following the season, he missed the Centenary Trans-Tasman Test due to injury and also missed the Kiwis' Tour of Great Britain and France.

Marshall against England at the 2008 RLWC

In 2008 Marshall's injury troubles continued when he suffered a knee ligament tear in the third minute of the season's opening game.[28] He returned in round 7. Halfway through 2008, coach Tim Sheens' announced his plan to move Marshall to the halfback position during the 2009 season,[29] going as far as encouraging New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney to play Marshall in this role during the 2008 World Cup.[30] The suggestion was declined.[30]

Marshall was named in the 24-man Kiwis squad for the World Cup.[31] He captained New Zealand for the first time on 8 November, against England.[32] Marshall scored a try and kicked two conversions in the World Cup final victory over the Kangaroos. It was the Kiwis first ever World Cup victory, in a game they were considered "massive underdogs".[33]

In round one of the 2009 season, Marshall started at halfback alongside John Morris at five-eighth. By the third round of the season, Marshall began to make an impact in his new role, helping the team to a 40–24 win over the Sydney Roosters.[34]

In March, despite speculation that he might play rugby union in Japan, Marshall signed with the Wests Tigers for a further two seasons through to the end of 2011. Following Kiwis captain Nathan Cayless' retirement from international football, Marshall was named as captain in that year's ANZAC test.

Marshall returned to his old position of five-eighth from July,[35] though both Marshall and coach Tim Sheens insisted that Marshall had been switching between first and second receiver throughout the entire season.[36] He went on to be named at 5/8 in the Team of the Year as chosen by The Rugby League International Federation.[37]

Marshall running the ball in a match against the Newcastle Knights in 2009.

In early 2010, Marshall signed a further extension with the Tigers, to stay at the club until the end of the 2015 season, saying, "I just can't see myself as anything other than a one-club man."[38] As captain of New Zealand, Marshall was an automatic selection for the NRL All Stars in 2010.[39]

In March 2010, Marshall scored two tries against the Parramatta Eels to become the highest try-scorer for the Wests Tigers, breaking the record of 43 previously held by Daniel Fitzhenry.[40] For the 2010 Anzac Test, he captained New Zealand at five-eighth in their loss against Australia. Later that year, in a match against the Titans, Marshall kicked a 51-metre-long field goal, considered to be the longest in NRL history.[41] 2010 was the first season that Marshall had played without missing a game due to injury, and his form was thought to be close to his career-best.[42] He played in 34 games in 2010, the most of any NRL player,[43] including the Tigers' 13–12 loss in the preliminary final to the Dragons.

Marshall led the Kiwis to victory in the 2010 Four Nations tournament, setting up two late tries in what was described as, "perhaps the finest game of his life."[26] He was then awarded the Rugby League World Golden Boot Award for international footballer of the year.[44] Big League magazine named him one of the year's five top players.[43]

As New Zealand captain, Marshall was again an automatic selection in the 2011 All Stars Match.[citation needed]

In March, Marshall was charged with assault after another man sustained a facial injury during an altercation with Marshall at a McDonald's restaurant in Sydney. In August, the judge dismissed the case, saying she had reasonable doubt that the injury was caused by Marshall.[45]

In round 14 of the 2011 season, Marshall scored 2 tries against the New Zealand Warriors. He had then scored a try against every team in the NRL.[46] Before the end of the season he had eclipsed Brett Hodgson as the highest scorer in the short history of the Wests Tigers, having amassed 797 points in 151 games.[47] Marshall was the top point-scorer for the 2011 NRL season, winning the Dally M Five-Eighth of the Year and also placing second in the Dally M Player of the Year voting. After the post-season test against Australia in Newcastle, Marshall travelled to England with the Kiwis for the 2011 Four Nations tournament.

On 3 November 2011, The annual RLIF Awards dinner was held at the Tower of London and Marshall was named stand-off half back of the year.[48]

Marshall in 2012

Marshall captained the NRL All Stars team to victory in the inaugural Arthur Beetson trophy.[49] He was one of the few players to appear in every Wests Tigers game for the year and, despite the club's poor showing, led the NRL in try assists and line-break assists in the regular season.[50][51] With the departure of Robert Lui in the off-season, the club tried a number of players at halfback in 2012, before Marshall switched from five-eighth in May.[52]

In the penultimate game of the regular season, Marshall kicked two goals to become the first Wests Tigers and 43rd player in the Australian competition to score one thousand points.[53] At the end of the season he was nominated for the Dally M halfback of the year.[54]

During the post-season Trans-Tasman Test 10–18 loss to Australia in Townsville, Marshall played his 20th game as New Zealand test captain, breaking the record for 'most capped captain' for the Kiwis previously held by Gary Freeman since 1995.[citation needed]

As the incumbent New Zealand national captain, Marshall was again selected to play in the 2013 NRL All Stars game. Weeks later, New Zealand coach Stephen Kearney announced that Marshall had been dropped as the team's captain. Marshall said, "It was the proudest moment of my career, captaining my country. I was lucky enough that I got to break the record for most caps as Kiwi captain. The decision was Steve's and the New Zealand Rugby League's, and it's just a decision I'm just going to have to live with."[55]

By May, with the Wests Tigers on a losing streak, Marshall was dropped to the bench. Coach Mick Potter said, "We needed to change something around. We can't just keep doing what we've been doing and expect a result. Benji, as you could imagine, was disappointed. Disappointed is probably not hard enough."[56] Marshall later admitted he was playing badly and without confidence. "This year, I've hardly taken the line on and I've hardly been tackled. Over the first six rounds I was barely contributing to the team," he said.[57]

In July, Marshall sought a release from the remaining two years of his contract with Wests Tigers to pursue a career in rugby union, after the club declined to offer him a contract extension and upgrade that had been previously verbally agreed upon.[58][59] He finished the remainder of the season before leaving, and left the Wests Tigers as the club's all-time top try and point scorer.

Rugby union

[edit]

Auckland Blues (2014)

[edit]

In August Marshall entered negotiations with the Blues to play Super Rugby in New Zealand. He indicated his desire to play for the Auckland team, even if it meant a pay cut and the probability of starting on the bench.[60]

Marshall signed a two-year deal with the Auckland franchise worth close to $500,000 a season, announced via Blues official YouTube channel,[61] with Marshall wearing the Blues jumper while still signed with Wests Tigers. Blues coach Sir John Kirwan hinted that number 10 (first five-eighth), not 15 (fullback), may be Marshall's ideal position.[62][63][64] Marshall later said, "I'm a little bit dirty on myself for the way I left. I could've done things a lot better. I know that. The whole Auckland Blues jumper fiasco. The disrespect of doing that. I didn't know it at the time, and people around me were telling me to do it. I was dumb enough to listen."[65]

In February 2014, Marshall made his Super Rugby debut for the Blues against the Highlanders at Forsyth Barr Stadium in Dunedin coming on off the bench in the 59th minute playing at fullback which resulted in a re-shuffle with Charles Piutau shifting to the centres. In his debut game he set up a line-break assist to Peter Saili, which led to a try to Patrick Tuipulotu. However, the Blues end-up losing 21–29.[66]

On 15 March 2014, Marshall made his first appearance at fullback for the Blues for the clash against the South African team, the Lions at Ellis Park Stadium in Johannesburg. During the game, he scored his first Super Rugby try in the second half of the game (in the 80th minute). He made 10 runs (130 metres), 2 line-breaks, 3 Offloads and 2 Try-Assists – setting up a try to team outside-backs Frank Halai (in the 65th minute) and George Moala (in the 71st minute). Unfortunately, the Blues end-up losing 36–39. Despite the loss, Marshall made a couple of great touches with the ball and produce a strong performance in the game.[67] Following round 5 (of the 2014 Super Rugby Season), Marshall was named at Fullback in the Fox-Sports' Round 5 Super Rugby 'Team of the week'.[68]

On 23 April 2014, having made just one start and six appearances, Marshall was released from his contract with the Blues.[69]

Return to rugby league

[edit]

St. George Illawarra Dragons (2014–2016)

[edit]

On 9 May 2014, Marshall signed a 2+12-year contract with the St George Illawarra Dragons.[70][71] He finished the year playing in 15 games and scoring 3 tries.

In 2015, Marshall steered the Dragons to their first NRL finals series since coach Wayne Bennett left the club at the end of the 2011 season. The Dragons were defeated in golden point extra time by the Bulldogs in the first elimination final[72] with Marshall being forced from the field in the second half with an ankle injury.

Marshall finished equal second in the Dally M medal count, behind Johnathan Thurston, who won the People's Choice award, along with the Player of the Year and Halfback of the Year.

On 24 July, Marshall played his 250th NRL game, playing against his former club Wests Tigers.[73] Marshall had been set to play game number 250 the weekend earlier against the Gold Coast Titans,[74] before a troublesome hamstring pushed it back a week. Benji ran out in his 250th game in the Red V of St George, meaning that he ended up playing a major milestone match against a team he played most of his career with.[75]

Brisbane Broncos (2017)

[edit]

After rejecting a one-year extension worth $300,000, Marshall decided to reunite with Wayne Bennett and sign with the Brisbane Broncos on a one-year deal.[76][77] Marshall later said, "I had nowhere to go so I called him and he just said, 'come to Brisbane'. He talked to me about just enjoying the game again, which I had lost. I've just been trying to do that ever since."[78] He played in 13 games for them, sometimes covering injured or representative players, and sometimes playing as a utility off the bench.

Return to Wests Tigers (2018–2020)

[edit]

Marshall signed a deal in August 2017 to go back to his first club The Wests Tigers for one year. With the departure of Aaron Woods, Marshall was named as one of 5 co-captains at Wests Tigers, alongside Chris Lawrence, Elijah Taylor, Russell Packer and Josh Reynolds. Coach Ivan Cleary said, "I just think it's the right model for us right now. When we started this preseason it was pretty obvious straight away that there was no real pecking order. There was no set culture to adhere to. It was all new."[79] With the role rotating, Marshall made his return as on-field captain in round 3.

Named on the bench for his return in round 1, Marshall got a call-up to five-eighth after a late injury to Josh Reynolds, and was said to play a "central role" in the surprise victory over eventual premiers the Sydney Roosters.[80] Marshall said, "I'm just enjoying being back in this No.6 jersey and I'm going to give my all every week to try and stay in it. If that happens I'll be pretty happy. I thought my career was coming to an end so to get this opportunity is a dream come true for me."[81] With Reynolds suffering further injuries, Marshall made 21 appearances for the season as Wests' missed out on the finals, finishing in 9th position.

Marshall's contract renewal for 2019 was announced at the same time as long-time teammate Robbie Farah. Farah said, "Once he texted me late last night to tell me he was staying on again, it relieved the nerves, to be honest. To know he was there for another year – the two old boys at the club – it made me feel a lot better."[82]

Marshall was selected to represent the New Zealand Kiwis for their matchup against Tonga on 22 June. He started as halfback, pairing with Shaun Johnson for a much anticipated halves combination. This was his first appearance for the Kiwis in seven years, and also his return to captaincy. They won the game 34–14.

Marshall made 19 appearances for the Wests Tigers in the 2019 NRL season as the club finished ninth on the table and missed out on the finals. The year also saw Marshall put in a number of strong performances.[83][84][85][86]

At the end of the regular season, Marshall captained New Zealand in two further tests, breaking the record for most matches as captain for them at 22. Wayne Bennett said, "I think it is great what the coach has done in bringing him back because he brings so much. They all get older, there's no doubt about that but they don't lose their skill level, they don't lose their commitment, they might lose a yard of speed but that's about all."[76]

After the first game of the season, Fox Sports had a headline, "Benji Marshall is the second oldest player in the NRL. He's not playing like it." Finishing the game with one try, two try assists, and returning to the goal-kicking role for the first time since leaving Wests Tigers in 2013, Marshall said, "I am actually proud of myself that I am still playing. There was a pretty tough patch there when I thought I was going to have to retire, especially when I went to Brisbane." On 8 August, in round 13 of the season, Marshall and fellow Wests Tigers teammate Chris Lawrence played their 250th games for the Tigers in a 44–4 loss against the Newcastle Knights.[87]

Towards the back end of the season, Marshall was informed by Wests that he was not part of their plans going into the 2021 season. In round 20, he played his final game for the club against Parramatta. Marshall was taken from the field early in the first half with a rib injury and did not return as Wests lost 28–24 at Bankwest Stadium.[88]

South Sydney Rabbitohs (2021)

[edit]

On 29 January, Marshall signed a one-year contract with the South Sydney Rabbitohs.[89] He made his debut for them in round 1 in a 26–18 loss against Melbourne.[90]

In round 5 against Brisbane, he scored his first try for South Sydney in a 35–6 victory at Stadium Australia,[91] and in round 7, he scored two tries for South Sydney in a 40–30 victory over the Gold Coast, playing at centre.[92]

Marshall played a total of 22 games for South Sydney in the 2021 NRL season including the club's 2021 NRL Grand Final defeat against Penrith.[93] Following the NRL premiership decider, Marshall announced his retirement on 6 October.[94] He then signed a two-year contract with Fox Sports to work as an analyst/pundit.[95]

In the 2022 Queen's Birthday and Platinum Jubilee Honours, Marshall was appointed a Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit, for services to rugby league.[96]

Coaching career

[edit]

In 2022, it was announced that Marshall would be appointed the Tigers' assistant coach under long-time head coach Tim Sheens, with the original plan being an assistant coach for the 2023 and 2024 NRL seasons, which would see him take over the head coaching role in the 2025 season after Sheens' retirement.

However due to the Tigers' poor 2023 season, the club mutually parted ways with Sheens in August, with Marshall moving into the head coach role a year earlier than expected. Marshall would assume the role in the Tigers' Round 25 match, where the Tigers would break a 10-game losing streak, defeating the Dolphins 24–22. The final 3 games of the 2023 NRL season officially do not count toward Marshall's coaching record, as Tim Sheens was still technically the head coach until the conclusion of the season.

Wests Tigers (2024–)

[edit]

Marshall was announced as the new head coach for the Wests Tigers starting in 2024. Marshall earned his first win as head coach in round 3 of the 2024 NRL season against Cronulla.[97] In Marshall's first season in charge of the club they would finish with the Wooden Spoon after managing to only win six games all year.[98] In Marshall's second full season in charge, he guided Wests Tigers to a 13th placed position on the table.[99]

Hall of Fame

[edit]

In August 2024, the National Rugby League announced that Marshall was an inductee into the National Rugby League Hall of Fame. Marshall, who was ascribed Hall of Fame number 123, was amongst eleven male players in the 2024 Class.[100]

Media appearances

[edit]

In 2022, Marshall competed on the sixth season of The Celebrity Apprentice Australia. On June 21, he was declared the winner of the series, raising over $487,000 for his chosen charity Souths Cares.[101][102]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Benjamin Quentin Marshall (born 25 February 1985), commonly known as Benji Marshall, is a professional coach and former player renowned for his role as a halfback in the (NRL), where he won the 2005 premiership with the , earned 31 Test caps for the New Zealand national team, and received major individual honors including the 2010 Golden Boot and 2024 NRL Hall of Fame induction. Born in , , Marshall debuted for the on 27 July 2003 against the while still attending high school, marking the start of a prolific career that saw him play 257 games for the club across 14 seasons, scoring 1,181 points. He later featured for the , , and , accumulating 346 NRL appearances, 96 tries, and 1,232 points in the NRL. Internationally, Marshall represented the Kiwis from 2005 to 2019, captaining 19 of his 31 Tests and competing in major tournaments including the and the 2009 Four Nations. Renowned for his exceptional playmaking, vision, and flair—often described as an "attacking force of nature"—Marshall briefly ventured into with the in 2014 before returning to league. Retiring as a player in 2021 after a storied career, he transitioned into , initially as an assistant at the and , before being appointed head coach of the in 2024.

Early life

Childhood and family background

Benjamin Quentin Marshall was born on 25 February 1985 in , a small town on New Zealand's , into a family of descent. His mother, Lydia Marshall, was only 15 years old and still attending school when she gave birth to him, raising him largely as a amid significant personal and financial challenges. Marshall grew up without knowing his biological father, identified as Calvin from , and faced emotional hardships, including at related to his absent father and periods of feeling unsafe at home. As the eldest of three brothers—including his younger sibling Jeremy Marshall-King, who later became a professional rugby league player—Marshall was supported by an extended network of family members who filled paternal roles. His foster father, Michael "Mick" Doherty, whom he regarded as his primary dad, provided crucial guidance and stability; Doherty, the father-in-law of one of Marshall's uncles, passed away in 2009. Alongside Doherty, approximately 10 uncles from his grandfather Toby Marshall's side offered tough love, discipline, and practical support, often housing the family and introducing Marshall to sports like touch football during his early years. The family lived in a low-income household, relying on modest meals such as or sandwiches, which underscored the limited opportunities in their rural community. Despite these constraints, Marshall developed resilience through strong familial bonds and communal encouragement, frequently staying with relatives and absorbing lessons in perseverance from his upbringing. He attended High School, where rugby emerged as his primary sport, shaping his early athletic interests amid the town's close-knit environment.

Junior rugby career

Born in Whakatāne, New Zealand, Benji Marshall initially excelled in touch rugby during his teenage years, showcasing early talent as a playmaker in the sport. At age 16, while studying tourism at Whakatane High School, he transitioned to rugby league by chance. Seeking greater opportunities, Marshall moved to at 16 during a high school trip focused on tourism studies, where he trialed for on the Gold Coast, . Impressing in a 15-minute substitute appearance against an elite under-19 side, he earned a to the school, which served as a key pathway for junior talent. Despite his birthplace, Marshall became classified as a Gold Coast junior through affiliation with the Nerang Cowboys club. At Keebra Park, under coach Greg Lenton, Marshall honed his playmaking abilities, demonstrating exceptional footwork, passing, and game-reading in junior competitions, including a standout performance in a seven-a-side alongside other promising talents. His versatility shone through as he adapted quickly to rugby league's demands, emulating players' techniques like sidesteps and flick passes during training sessions. Marshall's rapid rise led to selection for the Australian Schoolboys representative in 2003, highlighting his potential on a national stage. At age 17, his performances in junior tournaments caught the attention of Wests Tigers coach , who had ties to Keebra Park after the school's affiliation shifted from the ; this paved the way for his recruitment into the club's development system. Physically, Marshall transformed from a lean 74 kg teenager upon arriving in into a more robust athlete through rigorous training at Keebra Park, building strength and durability essential for higher-level competition.

Club playing career

First stint with (2003–2013)

Benji Marshall made his NRL debut for the on 27 July 2003, at the age of 18, while still completing his Higher School Certificate studies. He entered the Round 20 match against the as a replacement , contributing to a 52–12 victory and showcasing early promise with his speed and elusiveness despite his slight 74kg frame. His debut season was limited by injuries, including two shoulder dislocations that sidelined him for most of 2004, restricting him to just a handful of appearances as he adapted to professional demands. Marshall's breakthrough came in 2005, when he solidified his place in the Tigers' lineup as a and played a pivotal role in the club's maiden NRL premiership. In the Grand Final against the on 4 October, the 20-year-old scored a try and delivered his iconic flick pass to winger , sparking a length-of-the-field effort that helped secure a 30–16 win. Despite nursing a pre-season shoulder injury that he played through, including a minor during the finals series, his performance earned widespread acclaim for blending creativity with clutch execution under pressure. Over the following years, Marshall evolved into one of the NRL's premier playmakers, primarily operating as a or halfback renowned for his sidestep, game-reading vision, and inventive passing that unlocked defenses. His ability to evade tackles and create opportunities from tight spaces became hallmarks of his style, drawing comparisons to elite ball-runners while emphasizing short kicking and support play. In the 2010 playoffs, he starred in the preliminary final against the , overcoming a painful to dismantle the opposition's line with decisive breaks and assists, though the Tigers fell short in a 13–12 loss. That season marked his first injury-free campaign, culminating in a contention and recognition as a transformative force for the Tigers' attack. Marshall's tenure was not without challenges, including recurring injuries that tested his resilience. Knee issues plagued him from 2007 onward, with a tear in 2008 forcing a five-week absence early in the season and scar tissue complications later that year, yet he returned to feature in 20 games. Shoulder problems persisted intermittently, but his durability shone through, as he amassed over 200 appearances for the club across the decade despite these setbacks. Amid growing stardom, Marshall faced contract tensions, particularly in 2013, when negotiations for an extension stalled over salary expectations of around $1 million annually, amid interest from rival NRL clubs and rugby union opportunities. A verbal agreement on the upgrade reportedly fell through under new management, leading to public speculation about his future, though his loyalty to the Tigers—rooted in his debut club roots—kept him committed until seeking a release later that year. By the end of his initial stint in 2013, Marshall had played 201 games for the Wests Tigers, scoring 76 tries and contributing 1,118 points, establishing himself as the club's all-time leading try-scorer and points accumulator during that era.

Auckland Blues (2014)

In late 2013, after a decade in professional rugby league with the Wests Tigers, Benji Marshall announced his decision to switch codes by signing a two-year contract with the Auckland Blues in Super Rugby, valued at approximately NZ$500,000 per season. The move was motivated by his ambition to become a dual-code international, targeting a spot in the All Blacks for the 2015 Rugby World Cup and potentially the New Zealand sevens team for the 2016 Rio Olympics. Positioned primarily as a first-five-eighth (fly-half), Marshall sought to leverage his playmaking skills in the 15-player game while adapting to its distinct rules and demands. Marshall's transition proved challenging, as he grappled with the technical nuances of , including set-piece play and defensive structures that differed markedly from league. He later reflected that his approach often resembled "playing on a rugby field," highlighting struggles with the code's tactical complexity and physical contrasts. Limited by injuries to key teammates like Chris Noakes and broader team selection dynamics under coach John Kirwan, Marshall made only six appearances in the 2014 season, totaling around 212 minutes on the field. A highlight came in Round 5 against the Hurricanes, where he scored a try showcasing his signature footwork, though the lost 29-20. Overall, his impact was underwhelming, with frequent bench roles and criticism for not displacing established players, contributing to perceptions of an unsuccessful experiment. By April 2014, after less than a full season, Marshall and the mutually agreed to terminate his contract early. The decision stemmed from , with Marshall citing the pull of family and friends in , alongside a personal preference for rugby league's faster pace and physicality over union's demands. He expressed regret for letting down fans but affirmed his self-assessment as an "average rugby player," paving the way for his return to the NRL.

St. George Illawarra Dragons (2014–2016)

Following his departure from the Auckland Blues, Marshall signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the on 9 May 2014, enabling a swift return to in his preferred position of . He made his debut for the club in Round 11 against the and went on to play 15 games that season, scoring 3 tries and recording 13 try assists while adapting back to the code's demands. The Dragons finished 11th on the NRL ladder with an 11-13 win-loss record, reflecting a transitional year for the team. In 2015, Marshall enjoyed a resurgence, playing 23 games and contributing 3 tries along with a team-high 22 try assists, showcasing his playmaking prowess in partnership with halfback Gareth Widdop. His strong form early in the season positioned him as a contender for New Zealand's Anzac Test squad, which the Kiwis won 26-12 against , though Marshall was ultimately not selected due to competition in the halves. The Dragons improved to 8th place with a 12-12 record, qualifying for the finals for the first time since 2013 before a narrow elimination final loss to the . Marshall's 2016 season was hampered by persistent injuries, restricting him to 16 appearances where he scored 2 tries and provided 11 try assists. Drawing on his experience as a former captain, he assumed a key role within the team alongside co-captains Ben Creagh and Widdop, mentoring younger players amid a challenging campaign. The Dragons ended 11th with a 10-14 record, and as his contract expired without renewal, Marshall sought opportunities elsewhere, prioritizing family considerations including his wife's career and health in over overseas offers.

Brisbane Broncos (2017)

In 2017, Benji Marshall joined the on a one-year contract, reuniting with coach Wayne Bennett and taking on a veteran utility role off the bench to provide cover across the backs and halves, particularly amid the team's injury challenges. At age 32, Marshall transitioned from a starting to an impact substitute, appearing in 13 first-grade games, including three finals matches: starting at halfback in the week-one qualifying final loss to the , featuring in the week-two semi-final win over the , and entering as a late replacement in the preliminary final defeat to the . Marshall's statistical output was a career low, with just one try scored across his appearances, reflecting his adjusted role and a mid-season wrist fracture that sidelined him for several weeks. Despite limited starting opportunities, he was lauded for his leadership and mentorship of younger teammates, notably assisting hooker Ben Hunt in managing external pressures during his high-profile contract negotiations. Teammate credited Marshall's influence as transformative for the Broncos' halves, describing his arrival as "the greatest thing to happen" to the group's development. At the season's end, following the Broncos' elimination in the preliminary final, Marshall announced his departure from the club during the presentation night, openly contemplating after 15 NRL seasons but ultimately choosing to pursue another playing stint elsewhere.

Return to Wests Tigers (2018–2020)

In August 2017, Wests Tigers announced the signing of Benji Marshall on a one-year contract for the 2018 NRL season, marking his emotional return to the club where he had begun his career and won the 2005 premiership. At age 33, Marshall expressed a deep sense of homecoming, stating that leaving the Tigers in 2013 had been difficult and that he always hoped to return to contribute as a leader and utility player. The deal was seen as a sentimental gesture, with Marshall, a life member of the club, aiming to mentor younger players while providing experience in the halves. Marshall's playing time during his second stint was limited to 56 games across three seasons due to recurring injuries, including issues in 2018 and 2019, and a with broken in 2020 that sidelined him early in his final appearance. He transitioned into a versatile utility role off the bench, often providing guidance rather than starting regularly, and focused on mentoring emerging talents like halfback , whom he partnered with in the halves and publicly endorsed for selection. Despite the Tigers' inconsistent results—reaching the finals in 2018 but finishing 12th in 2019 and 10th in 2020—Marshall's loyalty to the club remained steadfast, emphasizing his role in fostering team culture amid challenges. In 2019, Marshall considered an emotional farewell as his contract neared its end, but he re-signed for one more year in , extending his tenure through 2020 and committing to another season of leadership. The Tigers confirmed in September 2020 that the upcoming season would be his last with the club, after which he had played 257 games for them across two stints. Marshall's departure was bittersweet, as he had hoped to retire as a Tiger but prioritized family considerations in reflecting on his career's close. The club honored him with a planned farewell at , underscoring his enduring legacy despite the injuries and team struggles.

South Sydney Rabbitohs (2021)

In late January 2021, at the age of 36, Benji Marshall signed a one-year contract with the to bolster the team's depth as a off the bench for the premiership-contending squad under coach Wayne Bennett. The deal reunited him with Bennett, who had previously coached him during a brief stint with the in 2017, and positioned Marshall to leverage his experience in a supporting role behind the club's established playmakers. Marshall featured in 22 games during the 2021 NRL season, contributing three tries and providing tactical acumen and leadership from the interchange bench as the Rabbitohs finished second in the regular season. His veteran presence proved particularly valuable in the finals series, where he appeared in all three playoff matches, including the preliminary final victory over Manly Sea Eagles and the Grand Final—a narrow 14-12 defeat to the Penrith Panthers at Suncorp Stadium. In the decider, Marshall played 28 minutes, helping to steady the team during a tense contest that marked his final professional appearance. Following the Grand Final loss, Marshall considered extending his stay with South Sydney into 2022, believing he was capable of another season, but ultimately declined to prioritize time with his family, including his wife Zoe and children and Ever. He officially announced his retirement on October 6, 2021, concluding a 19-year career with 346 first-grade games across multiple clubs. In later reflections, Marshall revealed he had interest from other clubs to continue playing but chose family and a shift toward over further competition.

International career

Debut and early Tests for New Zealand (2005–2012)

Marshall made his debut for the New Zealand Kiwis in the 2005 Anzac Test against Australia in Brisbane, where the Kiwis lost 32-16; at just 20 years old, he impressed with his speed and ball-handling skills at five-eighth, earning immediate recognition as a key playmaker for the national team. Despite a shoulder injury ruling him out of the subsequent 2005 Tri-Nations series, his domestic form with the Wests Tigers solidified his position as a starter for future internationals. Over the following years, Marshall's creative vision and elusive running elevated the Kiwis' attack, contributing to their rise as a dominant force in international rugby league. Marshall's standout international performances came during the , where he played all five matches for , scoring two tries and helping orchestrate their historic 34-20 victory over in the final at Suncorp Stadium. In the decider, his go-ahead try—regathering a speculative pass from that had gone to ground—proved pivotal in securing New Zealand's first title, a result that shocked the world and boosted the Kiwis' global standing. His tournament contributions, including precise kicking and inventive passing, earned him selection in the World Cup Dream Team alongside teammates like Fuifui Moimoi and Jerome Ropati. Under Marshall's captaincy from late 2008 onward, the Kiwis continued their success with a 2010 Four Nations triumph, defeating 16-12 in the final through his late-game brilliance, including assists for crucial tries by Jason Nightingale and setting up the winning try for . By the end of 2012, Marshall had played 27 Tests for , scoring 9 tries and kicking 35 goals for a total of 106 points, while his leadership helped transform the Kiwis into consistent challengers to Australia's dominance.

Return and final appearances (2019)

After a seven-year absence from , Benji Marshall unretired in 2019 at the age of 34 to rejoin the Kiwis squad for the inaugural Oceania Cup test against on 22 June at Mt Smart Stadium in . Selected in the extended 27-man squad announced on 13 June, Marshall's recall under coach Michael Maguire brought veteran experience to a relatively young team, where he started at and contributed to a commanding 34-14 victory, marking his 28th Test cap overall. Marshall's international resurgence continued during the Kiwis' end-of-year tour, where he was appointed for the first time since , leading the side in three Tests: a 26-4 loss to on 25 at WIN Stadium in , a 12-8 win over on 2 November at in , and a 23-8 win over on 9 November at Christchurch Stadium. In these matches, the 34-year-old provided crucial leadership and playmaking stability to a squad featuring emerging talents, drawing on his prior experience to guide the team through high-stakes encounters. His performances in elevated his career total to 31 Tests for the Kiwis, with nine tries and 35 goals scored across his international career. The 2019 series served as an emotional capstone to Marshall's representative career, highlighted by poignant moments such as leading the before the test in front of his young son and sharing his selection news with family, underscoring his deep pride in representing his heritage. Marshall retired from internationals following the test on 9 November, with no further appearances, solidifying his legacy as a pivotal figure in .

Post-playing career

Media and broadcasting roles

Following his retirement from professional in October 2021, Benji Marshall transitioned into , signing a two-year contract with to serve as an analyst and pundit for the . He provided expert commentary and insights on shows including , where his on-field experience contributed to discussions on team strategies and player performances. Marshall's role at marked a deliberate shift toward media work, allowing him to stay connected to the sport while sharing perspectives on its tactical evolution. In early 2022, Marshall expanded his media presence by launching the The Game with Benji Marshall, a weekly series hosted with Mathew Russell that analyzed NRL matches, featured guest interviews, and addressed key issues in . Episodes covered topics such as post-match breakdowns and broader conversations about the game's future, with Marshall drawing on his career highlights to offer candid opinions. The podcast quickly gained traction among fans, providing an informal platform for Marshall to engage with the NRL community beyond traditional broadcasting. Marshall also gained mainstream television exposure through his participation in the 2022 season of Celebrity Apprentice , where he competed as a contestant raising funds for Souths Cares and ultimately won the series finale against . This appearance highlighted his charisma and adaptability outside rugby, blending entertainment with charitable efforts tied to his playing background. Throughout 2022, Marshall frequently appeared in media interviews reflecting on his 19-year career, including discussions about turning down potential 2022 playing contracts with clubs like the and the evolution of tactics from his 2005 premiership era to modern play. These outlets, ranging from print to radio, allowed him to contextualize his legacy and influence on the sport's development.

Coaching career

Following his retirement from playing, Marshall transitioned into coaching with the , joining as an assistant coach under in 2023 as part of a five-year deal that positioned him as the club's future head coach. In this role, he contributed to the development of the team's playmaking halves, drawing on his own extensive experience as a during his 257 games for the club. Due to the team's poor performance in 2023, which culminated in their second consecutive , Marshall was promoted to ahead of the 2024 season, accelerating the original timeline by a year. He signed a multi-year extension to lead the club through its rebuild, emphasizing a "family first" culture that prioritizes players' personal lives and well-being alongside their professional commitments. Marshall's first season as head coach in 2024 was challenging, with the Tigers finishing last on the NRL ladder after securing six wins from 24 matches, marking their third consecutive . Despite the struggles, he focused on integrating young talents and fostering resilience, which laid groundwork for improvement. In 2025, the team showed progress with a 9-15 record, placing them mid-table and highlighting an emphasis on youth development through 18 player debuts and the emergence of prospects like Lachlan Galvin. Key to this rebuild were high-profile recruitments, including playmaker on a five-year deal starting in 2025 and forward Samuela Fainu from Manly Sea Eagles, both attracted by Marshall's supportive environment. Marshall's coaching philosophy is deeply influenced by his own , where he navigated highs like the 2005 premiership and lows including team struggles, leading him to prioritize player welfare and over immediate results. He promotes a balanced approach, encouraging players to put family commitments first—a stance that has resonated with Polynesian recruits and drawn praise for protecting well-being amid the pressures of elite sport. This player-centered mindset, combined with a calm and trusting style, has been credited with building loyalty and long-term growth at the club.

Achievements and honors

Major team successes

Benji Marshall played a pivotal role in the ' historic 2005 NRL Premiership victory, their first and only title to date, as the club defeated the 30-16 in the Grand Final at Sydney's Telstra Stadium. At just 20 years old, Marshall scored a crucial try early in the second half and orchestrated key attacking plays, including his iconic flick pass that set up for another try, helping the Tigers secure a commanding lead. Marshall's international career peaked with New Zealand's triumph in the , where the Kiwis stunned 34-20 in the final at Suncorp Stadium, , marking their first World Cup win and ending Australia's decade-long dominance. As a standout performer, Marshall contributed with a try and precise kicking, driving the team's comeback from a halftime deficit to claim the title in front of 50,599 fans. In 2010, Marshall captained to victory in the Four Nations tournament, defeating 16-12 in a thrilling decider at Brisbane's , securing the Kiwis' first title in the competition and solidifying their status as a global powerhouse. His leadership shone in the final minutes, as he set up two late tries—a visionary kick to Jason Nightingale and a pass to —turning a 12-6 deficit into a famous win witnessed by 45,128 spectators.

Individual awards and Hall of Fame

Throughout his career, Benji Marshall received numerous individual accolades recognizing his exceptional playmaking abilities in the (NRL). In 2011, he was named the Dally M of the Year, an honor awarded by the Australian Rugby League Commission for outstanding performance in the position. He also earned the RLIF International of the Year award in both 2009 and 2011 from the International Federation, highlighting his global impact as a pivotal . In 2010, he was awarded the RLIF International Player of the Year, commonly known as the Golden Boot, for being player. Additionally, Marshall was selected for the in 2010, 2011 (as captain), 2012, and 2013 (as captain), showcasing his leadership and skill in exhibition matches against Indigenous All Stars sides. Marshall's career statistics underscore his longevity and scoring prowess across 346 NRL games, where he scored 96 tries, kicked 416 goals, and added 16 field goals for a total of 1232 points. Renowned for his evasive sidestep and exceptional vision on the field, these attributes allowed him to create opportunities for teammates through precise passing and unpredictable movement, influencing defensive strategies in the sport. In August 2024, Marshall was inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame as a player, becoming the 123rd inductee and the fourth to receive the honor, coinciding with the approaching 20-year anniversary of his debut in the 2005 premiership-winning team. This induction celebrated his contributions to the game, including his role in elevating rugby league's profile in and internationally. Marshall is also recognized on the (NZRL) Roll of Honour as Kiwi #717, acknowledging his 31 Test appearances for the New Zealand national team between 2005 and 2019, during which he scored 9 tries and 106 points. His performances, particularly in leading the Kiwis to the 2008 World Cup victory, contributed significantly to the growth of by inspiring a new generation of players and fans.

References

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