Join now and get your first month for just $1<\/a>.<\/p>\nJillaroos dominant in Pacific finals | 02:46<\/p>\n
COWBOYS<\/p>\n
1. Scott Drinkwater<\/p>\n
2. Murray Taulagi<\/p>\n
3. Zac Laybutt<\/p>\n
4. Viliami Vailea<\/p>\n
5. Braidon Burns<\/p>\n
6. Jaxon Purdue<\/p>\n
7. Tom Dearden<\/p>\n
8. Jason Taumalolo<\/p>\n
9. Reed Mahoney<\/p>\n
10. Coen Hess<\/p>\n
11. Heilum Luki<\/p>\n
12. Jeremiah Nanai<\/p>\n
13. Reuben Cotter<\/p>\n
14. John Bateman<\/p>\n
15. Harrison Edwards<\/p>\n
16. Sam McIntyre<\/p>\n
17. Kai O\u2019Donnell<\/p>\n
Analysis: With Reece Robson departing, Reed Mahoney slots into the No.9 jersey after joining the club as a marquee recruit. Scott Drinkwater will be the fullback, with Murray Taulagi and Braidon Burns on the wings and Zac Laybutt and Viliami Vailea in the centres should Todd Payten opt to shuffle a rising star into the halves. Jaxon Purdue is expected to get first crack at five-eighth and partner Tom Dearden in the halves, despite a failed experiment during the 2025 season. It\u2019s a big call to shift Purdue out of the centres, but long-term he is considered a playmaker and as such could make that switch permanently. Roosters recruit Ethan King could also put pressure on the outside backs, with the talented 23-year-old making the move to North Queensland. Elsewhere, Jason Taumalolo will hopefully put his injuries behind him to start up front with Coen Hess, after the retirement of Jordan McLean. A fit-again Heilum Luki and Jeremiah Nanai will be the second-rowers, with Reuben Cotter at lock. John Bateman, Harrison Edwards, Sam McIntyre and Kai O\u2019Donnell round out the likely bench, with Thomas Mikaele also in the equation depending on pre-season performances.<\/p>\n
DOLPHINS<\/p>\n
1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow<\/p>\n
2. Jamayne Isaako<\/p>\n
3. Jake Averillo<\/p>\n
4. Herbie Farnworth<\/p>\n
5. Selwyn Cobbo<\/p>\n
6. Kodi Nikorima<\/p>\n
7. Isaiya Katoa<\/p>\n
8. Daniel Saifiti<\/p>\n
9. Jeremy Marshall-King<\/p>\n
10. Tom Flegler<\/p>\n
11. Max Plath<\/p>\n
12. Connelly Lemeulu<\/p>\n
13. Tom Gilbert<\/p>\n
14. Kurt Donoghoe<\/p>\n
15. Kulikefu Finefeuiaki<\/p>\n
16. Francis Molo<\/p>\n
17. Morgan Knowles<\/p>\n
Analysis: This line-up is absolutely stacked. Kristian Woolf has a mountain of players returning from injury ahead of the 2026 season, and has some mammoth selection decisions on his hands. Recruit Selwyn Cobbo and flyer Jack Bostock are set to battle it out for a spot on the wings in the first of many big calls, with the former Dally M Rookie of the Year returning from an ACL injury suffered in Round 16, so he could be touch and go to take the field to start the season. Elsewhere in the forwards, Daniel Saifiti, Tom Gilbert, Max Plath and most notably, Tom Flegler are all set to return into this starting side. Flegler has not taken the field since Round 5 of the 2024 season due to a nerve issue stemming from a shoulder injury. He revealed to News Corp he is eyeing a return in 2026 and that he is aiming to take the field in Round 1. \u201cIf you want to say (I\u2019ve avoided retirement), you could. I\u2019m going to go back and play, and you know what it\u2019s like, anything can happen when we play,\u201d he said. The raft of returning stars unseats the likes of Felise Kaufusi, Oryn Keeley and Ray Stone, while Josh Kerr, Aublix Tawha and Mark Nicholls (retirement) won\u2019t be at the club. Morgan Knowles is also somewhat of an unknown, but Woolf clearly rates his English recruit and he could force his way onto the pine while Brad Schneider has also landed in Redcliffe.<\/p>\n
Kiwis comeback to win Pacific Champs | 02:51<\/p>\n
DRAGONS<\/p>\n
1. Clint Gutherson<\/p>\n
2. Tyrell Sloan<\/p>\n
3. Moses Suli<\/p>\n
4. Valentine Holmes<\/p>\n
5. Christian Tuipulotu<\/p>\n
6. Daniel Atkinson<\/p>\n
7. Kyle Flanagan<\/p>\n
8. Toby Couchman<\/p>\n
9. Damien Cook<\/p>\n
10. Emre Guler<\/p>\n
11. Jaydn Su\u2019A<\/p>\n
12. Dylan Egan<\/p>\n
13. Hamish Stewart<\/p>\n
14. Jacob Liddle<\/p>\n
15. Ryan Couchman<\/p>\n
16. Josh Kerr<\/p>\n
17. Luciano Leilua<\/p>\n
Analysis: Shane Flanagan has some big decisions to make, with one of Kyle Flanagan or Lykhan King-Togia on the chopping block. Daniel Atkinson is set to arrive at the Dragons and may slot straight into the halves, with Flanagan likely to remain alongside him in 2026. In the forwards, a wave of injured stars return, including young gun quartet Toby and Ryan Couchman, Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan. Their selections have been made easier by the departure of David Klemmer, who has joined St Helens, with Emre Guler the likely man to start in the front row and Dolphins recruit Josh Kerr joining the bench. Loko Pasifika Tonga and Jacob Halangahu are the remaining contenders, and were solid to close out the year and will be very much in contention, putting pressure on the likes of Kerr and Luciano Leilua to win a spot on the pine. David Fale is another player who joins the Red V ahead of the 2026 season, and as it stands, he\u2019s unlikely to unseat either winger in this starting side.<\/p>\n
EELS<\/p>\n
1. Isaiah Iongi<\/p>\n
2. Zac Lomax<\/p>\n
3. Will Penisini<\/p>\n
4. Sean Russell<\/p>\n
5. Josh Addo-Carr<\/p>\n
6. Jonah Pezet<\/p>\n
7. Mitchell Moses<\/p>\n
8. Junior Paulo<\/p>\n
9. Ryley Smith<\/p>\n
10. J\u2019maine Hopgood<\/p>\n
11. Jack Williams<\/p>\n
12. Kelma Tuilagi<\/p>\n
13. Jack de Belin<\/p>\n
14. Tallyn Da Silva<\/p>\n
15. Dylan Walker<\/p>\n
16. Sam Tuivaiti<\/p>\n
17. Charlie Guymer<\/p>\n
Analysis: A huge inclusion in the halves for the Eels. Young gun Jonah Pezet has signed a one-year deal for the 2026 season and he will partner Mitchell Moses under Jason Ryles. The 22-year-old is set to leapfrog Joash Papalii and wear the No.6 and it\u2019s unlikely Papalii wins a spot on the bench considering the one-two hooker punch the Eels deployed in 2025. Meanwhile, there\u2019s been silence on Zac Lomax\u2019s rumoured R360 switch, with the NRL also announcing players who break contracts to join the rebel league will be handed a 10-year ban from ARLC competitions. If he remains at the Eels, Lomax will once again line up on the wing, while Dragons recruit Jack de Belin could start at lock, meaning Dylan Walker comes on in the middle against tired defenders to wreak havoc, being one of Parramatta\u2019s best players last season. Sam Tuivaiti is also due back from a syndesmosis injury. A promising side that will be hopeful of building on a strong end of their 2025 campaign. Kitione Kautoga, Luca Moretti, Matt Doorey and Jordan Samrani will undoubtedly also be in contention and find spots in the forward pack throughout the year.<\/p>\n
Jonah Pezet joins the Eels on a one year deal in 2026.Source: Supplied<\/p>\n
KNIGHTS<\/p>\n
1. Kalyn Ponga<\/p>\n
2. Greg Marzhew <\/p>\n
3. Bradman Best<\/p>\n
4. Dane Gagai<\/p>\n
5. Dom Young<\/p>\n
6. Fletcher Sharpe<\/p>\n
7. Dylan Brown<\/p>\n
8. Jacob Saifiti<\/p>\n
9. Phoenix Crossland<\/p>\n
10. Trey Mooney <\/p>\n
11. Jermaine McEwen<\/p>\n
12. Dylan Lucas <\/p>\n
13. Tyson Frizell <\/p>\n
14. Sandon Smith<\/p>\n
15. Pasami Saulo <\/p>\n
16. Matthew Croker <\/p>\n
17. Elijah Salesa-Leaumoana<\/p>\n
Analysis: New coach Justin Holbrook has a big job to rebuild the Knights and will no doubt have his own ideas after his first pre-season with the team. Kalyn Ponga will be the fullback, but there is plenty of competition for outside back spots with Greg Marzhew, Dom Young and Fletcher Hunt all fighting for wing spots. Bradman Best and Dane Gagai should again be the centres, with Fletcher Sharpe returning from injury at five-eighth and $13 million man Dylan Brown starting the season at halfback. Sandon Smith\u2019s arrival on a four-year deal will add to the halves depth and he is a chance to play halfback, with Brown at five-eighth, but more likely he will start the season as the bench utility. Jacob Saifiti and new recruit Trey Mooney may start in the front row after Leo Thompson\u2019s move to the Bulldogs, which has put a big dent into Newcastle\u2019s middle forwards depth. Phoenix Crossland starts at hooker after Jayden Brailey\u2019s switch to the Raiders. Jermaine McEwen and Dylan Lucas will likely start in the second row and forge a strong pairing, with Kai Pearce-Paul moving to the Tigers and veteran Tyson Frizell starts at lock. On the bench, Smith will likely beat Tyson Gamble to the utility role and cover hooker and the halves if injuries strike. Pasami Saulo will likely get a run, alongside Matt Croker and rising star Elijah Salesa-Leaumoana, who the club have big wraps on, having played seven games, with four off the bench to close out last season. <\/p>\n
Dylan Brown is set to play halfback for the Knights.Source: News Corp Australia<\/p>\n
PANTHERS<\/p>\n
1. Dylan Edwards<\/p>\n
2. Paul Alamoti<\/p>\n
3. Izack Tago<\/p>\n
4. Casey McLean <\/p>\n
5. Brian To\u2019o <\/p>\n
6. Blaize Talagi <\/p>\n
7. Nathan Cleary <\/p>\n
8. Moses Leota <\/p>\n
9. Mitch Kenny <\/p>\n
10. Lindsay Smith <\/p>\n
11. Isaiah Papali\u2019i <\/p>\n
12. Liam Martin <\/p>\n
13. Isaah Yeo <\/p>\n
14. Jack Cogger<\/p>\n
15. Liam Henry <\/p>\n
16. Scott Sorensen <\/p>\n
17. Kalani Going<\/p>\n
Analysis: The Panthers are one of the most settled teams in the NRL and have added three new faces to their squad, with two of those a chance of finding a spot in the 17. Jack Cogger, having returned to Penrith after winning a premiership in his last stint, could leapfrog Jack Cole and take over in the No.14 as a bench utility. Meanwhile, after a mammoth NSW Cup campaign, Warriors recruit Kalani Going could also force his way onto the pine and join the middle rotation, which you could argue has been lacking punch for the Panthers. Going could replace Luke Garner on the bench, having signed a one-year deal for the 2026 season. Elsewhere, Dylan Edwards will be the fullback, with Paul Alamoti and Brian To\u2019o on the wings, ahead of Thomas Jenkins. Izack Tago and Casey McLean will be the centres, with Blaize Talagi and Nathan Cleary in the halves. Moses Leota and Lindsay Smith start upfront, with Mitch Kenny at hooker as per usual. Isaiah Papali\u2019i might get a start next year with Scott Sorensen shifting to the bench due to his consistent injury concerns, while skipper Isaah Yeo is of course at lock. <\/p>\n
Jack Cogger returns to the Panthers\u2019 utility role vacated by Brad Schneider.Source: Supplied<\/p>\n
RABBITOHS<\/p>\n
1. Jye Gray<\/p>\n
2. Alex Johnston <\/p>\n
3. Jack Wighton <\/p>\n
4. Latrell Mitchell <\/p>\n
5. Campbell Graham <\/p>\n
6. Cody Walker <\/p>\n
7. Jamie Humphreys <\/p>\n
8. Jai Arrow <\/p>\n
9. Bronson Garlick <\/p>\n
10. Keaon Koloamatangi <\/p>\n
11. Tallis Duncan <\/p>\n
12. David Fifita<\/p>\n
13. Cameron Murray <\/p>\n
14. Brandon Smith <\/p>\n
15. Lachlan Hubner<\/p>\n
16. Euan Aitken <\/p>\n
17. Tevita Tatola<\/p>\n
Analysis: Wayne Bennett has some big decisions to make next season after the Rabbitohs\u2019 disappointing campaign in 2025, albeit with a horror casualty ward. He\u2019s also recruited a host of names, but none bigger than David Fifita, who looks set to start in the back row next season after finally securing a move away from the Titans. The remaining recruits outside of Bronson Garlick are Moala Graham-Taufa (Warriors), Jonah Glover (Dragons), Ed Kosi (Warriors), Latrell Siegwalt (Broncos) and John Radel (Mackay Cutters) \u2014 will have to bide their time to slot into this team. Elsewhere, Jye Gray should be the fullback, with Alex Johnston and Campbell Graham returning from a back injury on the wings. Graham\u2019s positional switch is to get Latrell Mitchell and Jack Wighton in the centres, and that duo could be a scary proposition in 2026. Cody Walker and Jamie Humphreys will start in the halves, but Humphreys could also be used at hooker, with new recruit Jonah Glover a chance to play halfback, while Ashton Ward will put pressure on the ageing Walker for a starting berth. Jai Arrow and Keaon Koloamatangi start in the front row, with new recruit Bronson Garlick at hooker ahead of Peter Mamouzelos. Tallis Duncan and Fifita will be the second row, with skipper Cameron Murray back at lock, pushing Lachlan Hubner to the bench. Brandon Smith will be the bench utility, unless he is suspended over his drug and betting scandal, which is still to play out in the courts. The versatile Euan Aitken and enforcer Tevita Tatola round out the bench. <\/p>\n
David Fifita joins a strong South Sydney pack.Source: Supplied<\/p>\n
RAIDERS<\/p>\n
1. Kaeo Weekes<\/p>\n
2. Savielo Tamale<\/p>\n
3. Matt Timoko<\/p>\n
4. Seb Kris<\/p>\n
5. Xavier Savage<\/p>\n
6. Ethan Strange<\/p>\n
7. Ethan Sanders<\/p>\n
8. Josh Papalii<\/p>\n
9. Tom Starling<\/p>\n
10. Joe Tapine<\/p>\n
11. Hudson Young<\/p>\n
12. Zac Hosking<\/p>\n
13. Corey Horsburgh<\/p>\n
14. Owen Pattie<\/p>\n
15. Simi Sasagi<\/p>\n
16. Matty Nicholson<\/p>\n
17. Ata Mariota<\/p>\n
Analysis: The only change for the Raiders in the off-season will be the loss of halfback Jamal Fogarty, who will now call Manly home. Perhaps envisioning Fogarty\u2019s potential departure, 18 months ago, the Raiders signed exciting Eels playmaker Ethan Sanders. Sanders was barely tested in first grade this year, but when he did hit the field, he didn\u2019t let the team down. Ricky Stuart confirmed he\u2019ll be given first crack in the Green Machine\u2019s No.7 jersey to form an exciting playmaker partnership with Ethan Strange. In the forwards, Zac Hosking did enough this past season to earn the right to start at second row to kick off next season, with Matty Nicholson and the versatile Simi Sasagi to come off the bench. In the hooker ranks, Jayden Brailey joins the club and could put pressure on Owen Pattie, however he likely did enough this season to retain his spot for the time being. All the other positions are pretty straight forward for Stuart, with very little change required. After all, they were the best team of the regular season in 2025. <\/p>\n
Haka vs Siva Tau SHAKES Commbank | 00:32<\/p>\n
ROOSTERS<\/p>\n
1. James Tedesco <\/p>\n
2. Daniel Tupou<\/p>\n
3. Billy Smith <\/p>\n
4. Robert Toia<\/p>\n
5. Mark Nawaqanitawase <\/p>\n
6. Daly Cherry-Evans <\/p>\n
7. Sam Walker<\/p>\n
8. Spencer Leniu<\/p>\n
9. Reece Robson <\/p>\n
10. Lindsay Collins<\/p>\n
11. Angus Crichton <\/p>\n
12. Siua Wong<\/p>\n
13. Naufahu Whyte <\/p>\n
14. Connor Watson<\/p>\n
15. Nat Butcher <\/p>\n
16. Egan Butcher<\/p>\n
17. Blake Steep<\/p>\n
Analysis: The Roosters have a few unknowns heading into 2025, but let\u2019s assume Daly Cherry-Evans is joining the club and will partner Sam Walker in the halves, with Hugo Savala waiting in the wings to take over when he retires. There\u2019s a world where Cherry-Evans plays utility, but it\u2019s not this one and Savala might be forced out of this 17 for the time being. James Tedesco will be the fullback, with Daniel Tupou and Mark Nawaqanitawase on the wings, while Billy Smith and Robert Toia will be the centres. Spencer Leniu and Lindsay Collins are the props, with new recruit Reece Robson at hooker. Siua Wong will partner Angus Crichton in the back row, with Naufahu Whyte at lock, while Victor Radley is suspended. Connor Watson shifts to the bench, but he could also feature at lock, with Benaiah Ioelu also a bench option after a breakout year at hooker. The returning Nat Butcher, Egan Butcher and Blake Steep will get first crack at the final bench spots, but there is plenty of competition in this Roosters pack, with Taylor Losalu and Salesi Foketi pushing hard for inclusion.<\/p>\n
SEA EAGLES<\/p>\n
1. Tom Trbojevic<\/p>\n
2. Jason Saab<\/p>\n
3. Tolu Koula<\/p>\n
4. Reuben Garrick<\/p>\n
5. Lehi Hopoate<\/p>\n
6. Luke Brooks<\/p>\n
7. Jamal Fogarty<\/p>\n
8. Taniela Paseka<\/p>\n
9. Lachlan Croker<\/p>\n
10. Jake Trbojevic<\/p>\n
11. Haumole Olakau\u2019atu<\/p>\n
12. Ben Trbojevic<\/p>\n
13. Kobe Hetherington<\/p>\n
14. Jake Simpkin<\/p>\n
15. Ethan Bullemor<\/p>\n
16. Nathan Brown<\/p>\n
17. Caleb Navale<\/p>\n
Analysis: For the first time in 16 years, the Sea Eagles will enter a new season without Daly Cherry-Evans after he offocially joined the Roosters on a two-year deal. He will be replaced in the starting side by former Raiders half Jamal Fogarty, who joins Manly on a three-year deal. Several players ended the year on the injury list, including a couple of star forwards in Taniela Paseka (Achilles) and Haumole Olakau\u2019atu (shoulder). The club released a statement when Manly\u2019s season ended that both will be right for Round 1, with Olakau\u2019atu to return to full contact in January. One forward who could be missing is Josh Aloiai, who is awaiting final confirmation from the NRL about potentially being medically retired. Reuben Garrick hurt his shoulder late in the year, but will be fit for the pre-season. The Sea Eagles signed Kobe Hetherigton on a four-year deal. He\u2019ll be pushing hard for a starting spot, which could see Jake Trbojevic start in the front row. While there are plenty of raps on emerging prop Simione Laiafi, Fijian middle forward Caleb Navale had an excellent start to the 2025 season and will remain on the bench alongside Nathan Brown and Ethan Bullemor. Lachlan Croker is reportedly weighing up a medical retirement, which would be a huge blow to Manly\u2019s hooker depth and would see Jake Simpkin start.<\/p>\n
Kangaroos claim whitewash over England | 02:59<\/p>\n
SHARKS<\/p>\n
1. William Kennedy <\/p>\n
2. Sione Katoa <\/p>\n
3. Jesse Ramien <\/p>\n
4. KL Iro<\/p>\n
5. Sam Stonestreet<\/p>\n
6. Braydon Trindall <\/p>\n
7. Nicho Hynes<\/p>\n
8. Addin Fonua-Blake<\/p>\n
9. Blayke Brailey<\/p>\n
10. Toby Rudolf<\/p>\n
11. Briton Nikora<\/p>\n
12. Teig Wilton <\/p>\n
13. Jesse Colquhoun<\/p>\n
14. Siosifa Talakai<\/p>\n
15. Billy Burns <\/p>\n
16. Braden Hamlin-Uele<\/p>\n
17. Tom Hazelton<\/p>\n
Analysis: The Sharks are another of the most settled teams in the NRL, with William Kennedy at fullback and Sione Katoa and Sam Stonestreet on the wings, after Ronaldo Mulitalo\u2019s ACL injury suffered playing for the Kiwis, while Liam Ison will push for inclusion when he return from an ACL injury at either wing or fullback. Jesse Ramien and KL Iro will be the centres, while Braydon Trindall and Nicho Hynes will again be the halves. Addin Fonua-Blake and Toby Rudolf will start up front after the latter\u2019s impressive end to their 2025 season, with skipper Blayke Brailey at hooker. Briton Nikora should reclaim a starting spot alongside Teig Wilton in the back row, although Billy Burns\u2019 outstanding finish to the year will have given Craig Fitzgibbon food for thought. Regardless, it\u2019s a clean slate next year and as such, Nikora\u2019s quality could earn him selection. Tom Hazelton will also be pushing for a bench spot, having returned to close out last season. Oregon Kaufusi and Tuku Hau Tapuha are the odd men out in the forward pack, while Cameron McInnes will also be sidelined to start the season after an ACL blow.<\/p>\n
STORM<\/p>\n
1. Sualauvi Fa\u2019alogo<\/p>\n
2. Will Warbrick<\/p>\n
3. Jack Howarth<\/p>\n
4. Nick Meaney<\/p>\n
5. Xavier Coates<\/p>\n
6. Cameron Munster<\/p>\n
7. Jahrome Hughes<\/p>\n
8. Stefano Utoikamanu<\/p>\n
9. Harry Grant<\/p>\n
10. Josh King<\/p>\n
11. Shawn Blore<\/p>\n
12. Eliesa Katoa<\/p>\n
13. Ativalu Lisati<\/p>\n
14. Tyran Wishart<\/p>\n
15. Tui Kamikamica<\/p>\n
16. Alec MacDonald<\/p>\n
17. Josiah Pahulu<\/p>\n
Analysis: Ryan Papenhuyzen shocked the NRL world when it was revealed he would leave the club and \u201ctake a break\u201d from rugby league. That leaves the No.1 jersey well and truly open under Craig Bellamy, and in a move that would mean the remainder of the backline stays in tact, Sualauvi Fa\u2019alogo could slot in at fullback. That allows Nick Meaney, who is also a contender to wear the No.1, to remain in the centres. Lock forward Trent Loiero copped a two-match fine for a high tackle on Pat Carrigan and will miss Round 1. Melbourne have a couple of exciting middle forwards waiting in the wings though, including former Titan Josiah Pahulu. He\u2019s a chance of making his Storm debut in next year\u2019s opening round. Only one player, Tui Kamikamica, ran onto Accor Stadium without a deal for next year, but its likely he will re-sign after the club let go of Nelson Asofa-Solomona and his $800k contract. Ativalu Lisati is a player on the rise and got one start at lock in 2025, and he could start in the No.13 jersey next year after also filling into the edge forwards and on the pine. <\/p>\n
Sualauvi Faalogo will replace Ryan Papenhuyzen as Storm fullback.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n
TITANS<\/p>\n
1. Keano Kini<\/p>\n
2. Jaylan De Groot<\/p>\n
3. Brian Kelly<\/p>\n
4. Phillip Sami<\/p>\n
5. Jojo Fifita<\/p>\n
6. AJ Brimson<\/p>\n
7. Jayden Campbell<\/p>\n
8. Moe Fotuaika<\/p>\n
9. Sam Verrills<\/p>\n
10. Tino Fa\u2019asuamaleaui<\/p>\n
11. Klese Haas<\/p>\n
12. Beau Fermor<\/p>\n
13. Chris Randall<\/p>\n
14. Luke Sommerton<\/p>\n
15. Jaimin Joliffe<\/p>\n
16. Cooper Bai<\/p>\n
17. Josh Patston<\/p>\n
Analysis: Josh Hannay has arrived on the Gold Coast and made a splash, with a host of signings ahead of the 2026 season. Luke Sommerton arrives from the Panthers and could forge a hooker partnership with Sam Verrills, with the new recruit starting on the bench. Lachlan Ilias will likely have to bide his time behind Jayden Campbell in the No.7 jersey, after being granted a release from the Dragons. It looks unlikely the remaining recruits of Jett Liu (Dragons), Siale Faeamani (Panthers), Jensen Taumoepeau (Raiders) and Adam Christensen (Burleigh Bears) force their way into the 17 to start the year. Christensen shapes as an interesting signing after an impressive Queensland Cup campaign, and with a vacant back row spot open due to David Fifita\u2019s departure, he could push to win it. But for now, he sits outside the 17 and Klese Haas takes that spot. Keano Kini will wear the No.1 with the club putting faith in him with a long-term deal, so AJ Brimson likely pairs up with Campbell in the halves. Young gun Cooper Bai was super impressive in his NRL debut in Round 27. He should be in the best 17 to start the season, while Josh Patston also had a solid end of his campaign, likely winning a spot on the bench alongside Jaimin Jolliffe.<\/p>\n
WARRIORS<\/p>\n
1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad<\/p>\n
2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak<\/p>\n
3. Adam Pompey<\/p>\n
4. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck<\/p>\n
5. Alofiana Khan-Pereira<\/p>\n
6. Chanel Harris-Tavita <\/p>\n
7. Luke Metcalf<\/p>\n
8. James Fisher-Harris<\/p>\n
9. Wayde Egan <\/p>\n
10. Mitch Barnett<\/p>\n
11. Kurt Capewell <\/p>\n
12. Leka Halasima<\/p>\n
13. Erin Clark<\/p>\n
14. Te Maire Martin <\/p>\n
15. Demitric Vaimauga<\/p>\n
16. Morgan Gannon<\/p>\n
17. Marata Niukore <\/p>\n
Analysis: The signing of Alofiana Khan-Pereira could throw a spanner in the works for the Warriors, who have looked to add depth after the departures of Moala Graham-Taufa (Rabbitohs), Ed Kosi (Rabbitohs) and Morgan Harper. Rocco Berry ended the season with a shoulder injury, but will likely be fit to start the year. Considering his persistent issues, there\u2019s a chance that Roger Tuivasa-Sheck shifts into the centres, which would accommodate a starting spot for Khan-Pereira. Andrew Webster is said to have a desire to add some speed to his squad, and the former Titans flyer could be the man to do just that. Elsewhere, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad will be the fullback and Chanel Harris-Tavita will be joined by Luke Metcalf in the halves after his return from an ACL injury, with Tanah Boyd dropping out. If Metcalf is not fit Boyd will likely be the No.7. Mitch Barnett returns from an ACL injury of his own to partner James Fisher-Harris in the front row, with Wayde Egan at hooker to forge a scary front three. Kurt Capewell and Leka Halasima could start in the back row, with Dally M lock of the year Erin Clark in the No.13. However, that move would force Marata Niukore to a bench role and also shift him into the middle of the park. Te Maire Martin looms as the utility ahead of Samuel Healey, with Demitric Vaimauga joined by new recruit second-rower Morgan Gannon on the bench after his switch from Leeds on a three-year deal. Tanner Stowers-Smith and Jacob Laban are the odd players out.<\/p>\n
Walsh dazzles with solo scrum try | 01:01<\/p>\n
WESTS TIGERS<\/p>\n
1. Jahream Bula <\/p>\n
2. Sunia Turuva<\/p>\n
3. Taylan May <\/p>\n
4. Starford To\u2019a<\/p>\n
5. Jeral Skelton<\/p>\n
6. Jarome Luai<\/p>\n
7. Adam Doueihi<\/p>\n
8. Terrell May <\/p>\n
9. Api Koroisau <\/p>\n
10. Fonua Pole <\/p>\n
11. Samuela Fainu<\/p>\n
12. Kai Pearce-Paul<\/p>\n
13. Alex Twal<\/p>\n
14. Latu Fainu<\/p>\n
15. Sione Fainu<\/p>\n
16. Alex Seyfarth<\/p>\n
17. Bunty Afoa<\/p>\n
Analysis: Jahream Bula will be the fullback, with Sunia Turuva and Jeral Skelton on the wings, while 18-year-old young gun Heamasi Makasini will likely have to bide his time. Taylan May and Starford To\u2019a will start the season in the centres, but Makasini could force his way into the backline somewhere during the year. Skipper Jarome Luai will be the five-eighth, with Adam Doueihi at halfback, while Latu Fainu continues to learn his trade via the bench. Recruit Jock Madden adds depth to the halves, but is unlikely to make the 17, while young gun five-eighth Javon Andrews will have to bide his time for an opportunity after joining the club on a three-year deal. Terrell May and Fonua Pole will start up front, with co-captain Api Koroisau at hooker. Kai Pearce-Paul joins the club from the Knights and is expected to start in the second row alongside Samuela Fainu, with Sione Fainu shifting to the bench. Alex Twal locks the scrum after a strong 2025 campaign. Alex Seyfarth and new Warriors recruit Bunty Afoa round out the bench with the Fainu brothers, but will face pressure from new recruit Mavrik Geyer and Royce Hunt, who fell out of favour last year. <\/p>\n
England star Kai Pearce-Paul joins the Tigers from the Knights.Source: Getty Images<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"The Broncos will be sweating on superstar Payne Haas\u2019 decision on his future after he was linked with…\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":276053,"comment_status":"","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[568],"tags":[160161,18743,4614,28078,4558,130148,10748,160112,64,63,689,24013,21686,4448,160163,106235,145613,113711,78637,4442,124388,6404,4560,4428,115408,28071,124400,7618,4562,4567,5079,5084,4438,4600,4433,160181,160170,4568,160179,4457,22331,160172,8089,4738,4565,4430,4420,4424,4437,4581,4509,4467,145762,4591,54493,10743,4463,1208,4550,4524,4516,4597,2057,124392,21683,18739,124398,4594,10744,14175,763,28067,54344,2485,160160,4608,26120,21386,69447,27156,4431,11736,160178,160169,63139,63934,11402,124379,56528,5088,5094,4449,18742,4593,4569,4578,4508,4555,4584,4533,4592,4575,4494,4480,4552,4518,4479,4415,4580,4582,4556,4616,39262,4570,4450,28080,4491,4587,160177,21384,28066,160168,29043,27285,1084,4451,4577,18387,4473,17340,4536,72590,23995,160109,3194,4484,779,4487,4470,4617,1082,4419,4434,22321,4459,4462,10747,4602,79826,124399,4601,27143,124390,160164,3502,15903,10750,4605,22326,7677,82842,761,762,45626,124380,1736,40041,26504,4609,7204,3583,158,677,25294,158119,159025,26598,22329,13390,4598,39567,4606,3252,160176,74197,701,2621,124397,160171,13391,160174,160162,160173,124386,160165,7291,28362,4542,62842,2625,28058,159,130928,160182,54475,69446,122351,4561,1085,4476,4503,4583,4488,3495,28060,160166,47900,85,160167,49980,132831,4546,4427,14869,1080,4441,160175,4499,11732,40623,777,776,11085,15899,99325,4535,4573,124385,81210,4412,4461,1651,698,4456,160180,9020,124393,124382,4417],"class_list":["post-276052","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-nrl","tag-adam-christensen","tag-adam-reynolds","tag-addin-fonua-blake","tag-alec-macdonald","tag-alex-johnston","tag-alofiana-khan-pereira","tag-andrew-webster","tag-ashes-test-sweep","tag-au","tag-australia","tag-australia-and-new-zealand","tag-back-row","tag-ben-hunt","tag-ben-trbojevic","tag-bench-first-up","tag-bench-option","tag-bench-role","tag-bench-rotation","tag-bench-utility","tag-billy-smith","tag-blake-steep","tag-blayke-brailey","tag-brian-kelly","tag-brisbane-broncos","tag-burleigh-bears","tag-caleb-navale","tag-cameon-murray","tag-cameron-ciraldo","tag-cameron-mcinnes","tag-cameron-munster","tag-cameron-murray","tag-campbell-graham","tag-casey-mclean","tag-chanel-harris-tavita","tag-chris-randall","tag-club-let","tag-club-putting-faith","tag-connor-watson","tag-consistent-injury-concerns","tag-corey-horsburgh","tag-corey-jensen","tag-cover-hooker","tag-craig-bellamy","tag-craig-fitzgibbon","tag-cronulla-sharks","tag-daly-cherry-evans","tag-damien-cook","tag-dane-gagai","tag-daniel-atkinson","tag-daniel-tupou","tag-david-fifita","tag-david-klemmer","tag-deadline-passes","tag-dylan-edwards","tag-dylan-egan","tag-dylan-lucas","tag-dylan-walker","tag-england","tag-erin-clark","tag-ethan-king","tag-ethan-sanders","tag-euan-aitken","tag-europe","tag-exciting-playmaker-partnership","tag-ezra-mam","tag-felise-kaufusi","tag-final-bench-spots","tag-fletcher-hunt","tag-fletcher-sharpe","tag-four-year-deal","tag-fox-league","tag-francis-molo","tag-front-row","tag-gold-coast","tag-grand-final-hooker","tag-grant-anderson","tag-green-machine","tag-halves-depth","tag-halves-headache","tag-halves-partner","tag-hamish-stewart","tag-harrison-edwards","tag-hooker-depth","tag-hooker-partnership","tag-hooker-ranks","tag-horror-casualty-ward","tag-hugo-savala","tag-injured-stars-return","tag-injuries-strike","tag-injury-list","tag-isaah-yeo","tag-jmaine","tag-jack-bostock","tag-jack-cogger","tag-jack-howarth","tag-jack-wighton","tag-jack-williams","tag-jacob-kiraz","tag-jacob-laban","tag-jacob-liddle","tag-jacob-preston","tag-jahrome-hughes","tag-jai-arrow","tag-jake-simpkin","tag-jake-trbojevic","tag-jamal-fogarty","tag-james-fisher-harris","tag-james-tedesco","tag-jamie-humphreys","tag-jarome-luai","tag-jason-ryles","tag-jason-saab","tag-jason-taumalolo","tag-jayden-campbell","tag-jaylan-de-groot","tag-jeremy-marshall-king","tag-jermaine-mcewen","tag-jesse-colquhoun","tag-jett-liu","tag-jock-madden","tag-john-bateman","tag-john-radel","tag-jonah-glover","tag-jonah-pezet","tag-jordan-mclean","tag-josh-addo-carr","tag-josh-curran","tag-josh-hannay","tag-josh-king","tag-josh-papalii","tag-junior-paulo","tag-justin-holbrook","tag-jye-gray","tag-kangaroos-coach","tag-kevin-walters","tag-kieran-foran","tag-kristian-woolf","tag-kurt-capewell","tag-kurt-mann","tag-lachlan-galvin","tag-latrell-mitchell","tag-leo-thompson","tag-lindsay-smith","tag-luca-moretti","tag-luke-brooks","tag-luke-garner","tag-luke-metcalf","tag-luke-sommerton","tag-mackay-cutters","tag-mammoth-selection-decisions","tag-manly-sea-eagles","tag-mark-nicholls","tag-marquee-recruit","tag-matt-croker","tag-max-king","tag-max-plath","tag-mitch-barnett","tag-mitch-kenny","tag-mitchell-moses","tag-moses-suli","tag-nathan-brown","tag-national-rugby-league","tag-nationalrugbyleague","tag-naufahu-whyte","tag-nerve-issue","tag-new-zealand","tag-new-zealand-kiwis","tag-news-corporation","tag-nick-meaney","tag-north-melbourne-kangaroos","tag-northern-europe","tag-nrl","tag-oceania","tag-one-year-deal","tag-pacific-championship-final","tag-pacific-champsrugby-league","tag-pat-carrigan","tag-patrick-carrigan","tag-payne-haas","tag-penrith-panthers","tag-phil-sami","tag-phillip-sami","tag-player-movement","tag-plays-utility","tag-preliminary-finals","tag-queensland","tag-rebel-league","tag-recruit-second-rower","tag-recruit-starting","tag-reece-walsh","tag-remaining-recruits","tag-remaining-recruits-outside","tag-respective-war-dances","tag-returning-stars-unseats","tag-revamped-pack","tag-ricky-stuart","tag-rising-star","tag-robert-toia","tag-rocco-berry","tag-roger-tuivasa-sheck","tag-royce-hunt","tag-rugby-league","tag-rugby-league-ashes-live","tag-rules-set","tag-ryan-couchman","tag-sam-mcintyre","tag-sam-stonestreet","tag-samuel-healey","tag-scott-drinkwater","tag-scott-sorensen","tag-sean-russell","tag-shane-flanagan","tag-shawn-blore","tag-shoulder-injury","tag-siua-wong","tag-siva-tau-shakes-commbankrugby-league","tag-souths-logan-magpies","tag-sports","tag-start-upfront","tag-starting-side","tag-starting-spot","tag-stephen-crichton","tag-stowers-smith","tag-super-league","tag-sydney-roosters","tag-syndesmosis-injury","tag-term-solution","tag-thomas-jenkins","tag-thomas-mikaele","tag-three-year-deal","tag-todd-payten","tag-tom-dearden","tag-tom-flegler","tag-tom-gilbert","tag-tom-hazelton","tag-tom-trbojevic","tag-tyson-frizell","tag-unknowns-heading","tag-utility-role","tag-valentine-holmes","tag-wayde-egan","tag-wayne-bennett","tag-western-bulldogs","tag-william-kennedy","tag-wing-spots","tag-young-gun","tag-young-gun-five-eighth","tag-young-gun-quartet","tag-zac-hosking"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/276052","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=276052"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/276052\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/276053"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=276052"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=276052"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/au\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=276052"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}