‘It was a bit of banter’: Brian To’o sets the record straight after shock Panthers exit rumours

Brian To’o has set the record straight over rumours of his desire to leave Penrith, claiming it all stemmed from “banter” during State of Origin camp.

The superstar winger, who has been a major part of the side’s three-straight NRL premierships, was linked with a shock early exit from the Panthers in July.

To’o was reportedly ‘shopped around’ to rival clubs, with the Wests Tigers at the forefront of speculation in a bid to lure the NSW Blues flyer.

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However, just days later, Penrith put to bed any potential release for To’o, who remains signed at the foot of the Mountains until at least the end of 2027.

In an interview with The Sydney Morning Herald, the 26-year-old explained that the departures of both Stephen Crichton and Jarome Luai – two of his closest mates – prompted some light-hearted chatter about To’o joining them.

“It was a bit of banter out of Origin camp,” he said.

“We are like little kids, pretty much. Whenever we are all together we like to banter, it might have come out. It was a bit of a joke that I was going with Romey.

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“It was all just banter and jokes. I’m really happy with where I am at the club and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens in the future.

“I remember when I got the call about all these meetings, about me leaving it was funny banter. I know everything is not true. I am still signed to the Panthers until 2027 and I can’t wait to see where I go.”

To’o has cemented himself as one of the game’s best modern-day wingers during his 114 first grade appearances, scoring 78 tries for the Panthers.

He will line up for the reigning champs on Friday night in their qualifying final showdown with the Sydney Roosters.