It’s taken just one NRLW premiership match in her new colours to show what a strike weapon Shaylee Bent is going to be for the Wests Tigers in 2026.
The hard running and talented left edge second-rower made a successful debut for the Wests Tigers at CommBank Stadium on Sunday, scoring a try in the 28-16 victory over Parramatta Eels in the opening round.
Bent also made 88 metres from 10 runs, five tackle breaks, and 28 tackles.
At just 25, Bent brings plenty of experience to the Tigers after making her NRLW debut in 2019 for the St George-Illawarra Dragons.
Following three seasons at the Dragons, Bent spent a further three years at the Gold Coast Titans before joining the Wests Tigers for 2026 on a two-year deal.
Her signing marked a return to Concord after Bent played in the Wests Tigers Tarsha Gale Cup side in 2018.
An Australian and NSW representative, Bent’s game is built on power and athleticism, with her professionalism and positive attitude set to rub off on some of her younger team-mates.
With 52 first grade games behind her, Bent is one of 13 new players at Wests Tigers, including established NRLW stars Raecene McGregor and Holli Wheeler to name a few.
Bent said her impressive start to the season can be put down to a strong pre-season under new Head Coach, Craig Sandercock, and new High-Performance Manager, Richmond Saliba.
“Rich has been killing us. He has been testing me a lot. I have been pushed to limits that I haven’t been pushed to before,’’ Bent said.
“I’m as fit and as strong as I can be, so all credit to our coaching staff.
“It’s surreal. I love playing NRLW. Time flies fast when you’re enjoying what you do.
“I made my NRLW debut at 18, alongside Kezie Apps, who is now my captain and team-mate here at Wests Tigers.
“Kezie has had a big influence on me. She is a hard-working player who always has a positive mindset.
“Whether I was homesick or just uncomfortable when I first started playing, Kezie would always provide comfort and tell me that ‘I’ve got this’.
“It gives you so much confidence when it comes from an elite player like her.”
