Sport
Bai signs with Storms
Cooper Bai in action for the PNG PMs XIIIs last year (Supplied-NRL Images)
The ‘Bai Legacy’ continues in NRL history as Cooper Bai locks in a three-year deal with the Melbourne Storms starting in 2028.
The 20-year-old is currently linked with the Gold Coast Titans through to next season and will join the Storms from 2028.
In a released media statement, the Melbourne Storms were delighted to announce this signing today as the emerging forward secures a three-year contract through to 2030.
The son of Storm Premiership hero Marcus Bai, will continue the proud Bai legacy in the purple Jersey.
Director of Football Frank Ponissi said the Club was excited to welcome Bai to Melbourne.
“Cooper is an exciting young forward and a quality young man. He’s made an impressive start to his career with the Gold Coast, and we’re looking forward to supporting his continued development here in Melbourne,” Ponissi said.
“Cooper has great potential and we look forward to watching his continued development over the next 12 months before he joins us in 2028, which marks the 30th anniversary of our Club’s inaugural season in 1998 featuring Cooper’s father Marcus - making it even more significant.”
A product of the Burleigh Bears junior system and Marymount College, Bai has made 24 NRL appearances for the Titans since his first-grade debut in 2025.
The 2026 season saw the young forward establish himself at NRL level, playing 23 games and scoring two tries.
Bai has also represented Papua New Guinea on the international stage, making his Test debut against the Cook Islands during the 2025 Pacific Championships.
He also featured for the PNG Prime Minister’s XIII in their clash against Australia later that year.