Tim Williams
SC Playbook founder, 2nd NRL 2020, 43rd BBL 21/22'
Predicted teams: How your side will line up in early stages
We take a look at how every club may line-up for the early stages of the 2022 NRL season, including analysis of the spots up for grabs.
Key Analysis NRL Pre Season
January 31, 2022
We’re closing in on the first round of the NRL season.
To aid with locking in our SuperCoach squad selections, we’ve had a crack at predicting the NRL teams for the season opener.
For SuperCoach purposes we’ve included any players returning from injury/suspension in the first three rounds in the starting line-up.
This combines both the likely starting teams and best 17s, as initial price changes occur after Round 3.
For example, Harry Grant and Cam Munster miss the opening round of the season but are in our starting teams.
We’ll be sure to make note of how the changes will impact the side prior to their returns.
We’ll also continuously update this article on a daily basis throughout the pre-season to stay as fresh as possible.
Full squad lists and injuries are courtesy of Foxsports.com.au, all predicted teams have been self-assessed.
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Embed from Getty ImagesBRONCOS
1. Tesi Niu 2. Selwyn Cobbo 3. Kotoni Staggs 4. Herbie Farnworth 5. Jordan Pereira 6. Billy Walters 7. Adam Reynolds 8. Ryan James 9. Jake Turpin 10. Payne Haas 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Jordan Riki 13. Patrick Carrigan
Bench: 14. Kobe Hetherington 15. Keenan Palasia 16. Rhys Kennedy 17. Brendan Piakura
Injuries/suspensions: Brendan Piakura (suspension, Round 2), Thomas Flegler (suspension, Round 4), Xavier Willison (knee, mid-season), Tesi Niu (Hamstring, Round 1-4).
Analysis: While there’s a few new faces and competition for spots, I think this 17 goes fairly close to picking itself.
Tesi Niu suffered a hamstring strain during the pre-season and is racing the clock to be fit for the season opener. It’s unlikely though he’ll be cleared for Round 1.
This would see any number of options start at fullback, with Selwyn Cobbo a huge chance, which would see the likes of Corey Oates or Jamayne Isaako earn a temporary reprieve.
Albert Kelly proved himself last season and deserves first crack alongside Adam Reynolds in the halves I believe. However, as the pre-season progresses it’s been reported that Billy Walters is now the front-runner for the spot, while Tyson Gamble also remains in the mix.
Should Niu be fit for the opener, the wing spots are entirely up for grabs, with Jordan Pereira, Cobbo, Isaako and Oates fighting for two spots.
Early reports from Red Hill have Cobbo and Pereira ahead, my feeling is that this is the way they’ll go.
Tom Flegler returns from suspension in Round 4 with all bench players fighting for their spot when he returns.
Brendan Piakura may find himself slotting onto the bench on return from suspension, if not starting, should he deliver a big pre-season.
Rhys Kennedy and TC Robati will likely battle it out for the final bench spot.
While Kevin Walters may opt for a utility on the bench, I suspect he won’t have to with the versatility of Kurt Capewell.
Full squad: Kurt Capewell (2024), Patrick Carrigan (2024), Selwyn Cobbo (2023), Herbie Farnworth (2022), Thomas Flegler (2023), Tyson Gamble (2023) Payne Haas (2024), Kobe Hetherington (2023), Deloise Hoeter (2022), Jamayne Isaako (2022), Ryan James (2022), Albert Kelly (2022), Corey Jensen (2023), Rhys Kennedy (2022), Brenko Lee (2023), Ezra Mam (2024), David Mead (2022), Tesi Niu (2023), Corey Oates (2022), Cory Paix (2023), Keenan Palasia (2022), Jordan Pereira (2023), Brendan Piakura (2024), Adam Reynolds (2024), Jordan Riki (2024), TC Robati (2024), Kotoni Staggs (2025), Jake Turpin (2022), Billy Walters (2022)
Embed from Getty ImagesRAIDERS
1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Nick Cotric 3. Seb Kris 4. Matthew Timoko 5. Jordan Rapana 6. Jack Wighton 7. Brad Schneider 8. Josh Papalii 9. Josh Hodgson 10. Joe Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Elliott Whitehead 13. Adam Elliott
Bench: 14. Tom Starling 15. Ryan Sutton 16. Corey Horsburgh 17. Corey Harawira-Naera
Injuries/suspensions: Harley Smith-Shields (ACL, season), Jordan Rapana (suspension, Round 3), Jamal Fogarty (Knee, mid-season)
Analysis: A disrupted pre-season for Xavier Savage may see Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad get the nod at fullback for round 1, however the spot will be up for grabs as they fight it out leading into the opener.
Harley Smith-Shields did his ACL during the pre-season in a huge blow for the promising youngster and the Raiders’ backline depth.
That wasn’t helped by Jordan Rapana’s suspension in the All Stars fixture, seeing him ruled out for the first two rounds.
It could see Savage start at fullback and CNK on the wing in the opening rounds, however I’d say it’s more likely that Semi Valemei or even Seb Kris deputise on the wing until Rapana returns.
Honestly, the backline has spots up for grabs all over the place, with Valemei and Kris both in contention to start at centre over skipper Jarrod Croker.
It could go any way, but I have Kris narrowly ahead of Croker.
Recruit Adam Elliott may start at lock, with Joe Tapine at prop and Corey Horsburgh off the bench.
With a plethora of back-rowers at their disposal, including Josh Hodgson in the rotation, Ricky Stuart tends to vary his starting options and game time each week.
Ryan Sutton also floats in and out of the starting side week-to-week.
The hooking dilemma is interesting as Tom Starling and Hodgson battle it out for the starting role. It really could go either way and it looms as a big decision for Stuart.
I’m like Starling to start, and it’s still possible, but with the immense back-row depth I’m leaning towards Hodgson starting for the first 20 minutes as per last season.
Unless a utility back joins Hodgson/Starling on the bench, which is fairly unlikely but possible, it makes the Raiders pack hard to start with in SuperCoach until we see how the minutes play out.
With Fogarty gone, Brad Schneider gets first crack to partner Jack Wighton in the halves and is expected to kick goals if Croker isn’t selected.
Full squad: Nick Cotric (2024), Jarrod Croker (2023, PO 2024), Adam Elliott (2022), Jamal Fogarty (2024), Matt Frawley (2022), Emre Guler (2023), Corey Harawira-Naera (2022), Josh Hodgson (2022), Albert Hopoate (2022), Peter Hola (2023, CO 2024), Corey Horsburgh (2022), Sebastian Kris (2024), Trey Mooney (2024), Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (2023), Josh Papalii (2024, MO 2025), Jordan Rapana (2023), Harry Rushton (2023), Xavier Savage (2023), Brad Schneider (2023), Harley Smith-Shields (2023), Tom Starling (2022), Ryan Sutton (2022), Joe Tapine (2023), Matthew Timoko (2024), Semi Valemei (2024), Elliott Whitehead (2024), Jack Wighton (2022, PO 2023 and 2024), Sam Williams (2022), Hudson Young (2024)
Embed from Getty ImagesBULLDOGS
1. Matt Dufty 2. Josh Addo-Carr 3. Brent Naden 4. Aaron Schoupp 5. Corey Allan 6. Matt Burton 7. Jake Averillo 8. Paul Vaughan 9. Jeremy Marshall-King 10. Luke Thompson 11. Jack Hetherington 12. Tevita Pangai Jr 13. Josh Jackson
Bench: 14. Bailey Biondi-Odo 15. Raymond Faitala-Mariner 16. Ava Seumanufagai 17. Jackson Topine
Injuries/suspensions: Matt Doorey (knee, mid-season)
Analysis: A new-look Bulldogs outfit is an exciting prospect heading into the new season.
I see Jayden Okunbor edging Corey Allan for a spot on the wing, while Braidon Burns and Aaron Schoupp will fight for the starting centre role throughout the pre-season and could go either way. I’m a fan of both, I think Schoupp will get the nod, although he is fighting to be fit for the opener.
Raymond Faitala-Mariner returns from a lengthy injury layoff, but he’s another who will be pushing fitness for Round 1. Provided he gets through the pre-season trials okay I expect him to be eased back off the bench, with reports suggesting Jack Hetherington will start on the edge.
Every bench spot is up for grabs with no standout options. Jackson Topine is highly regarded at the club and will benefit from experience last season.
He’ll compete with the likes of Max King, Joe Stimson and Corey Waddell for a spot on the bench, with pre-season trials to determine the entire bench make-up.
Full squad: Josh Addo-Carr (2025), Paul Alamoti (2023), Corey Allan (2023), Jake Averillo (2023), Bailey Biondi-Odo (2023), Braidon Burns (2023), Matt Burton (2023, PO 2024), Josh Cook (2023), Matt Doorey (2022), Matt Dufty (2022), Raymond Faitala-Mariner (2022), Kyle Flanagan (2023), Jack Hetherington (2022, MO 2023), Josh Jackson (2023), Tui Katoa (2022), Max King (2022), Jeremy Marshall-King (2022, PO 2023), Brent Naden (2023), Jayden Okunbor (2023), Tevita Pangai Jr (2024), Chris Patolo (2023), Aaron Schoupp (2024), Ava Seumanufagai (2023), Joe Stimson (2022), Luke Thompson (2023), Jackson Topine (2022), Paul Vaughan (2022), Corey Waddell (2023), Brandon Wakeham (2022)
Embed from Getty ImagesSHARKS
1. Will Kennedy 2. Ronaldo Mulitalo 3. Connor Tracey 4. Jesse Ramien 5. Sione Katoa 6. Nicho Hynes 7. Matt Moylan 8. Toby Rudolf 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Aidan Tolman 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Dale Finucane
Bench: 14. Braydon Trindall 15. Siosifa Talakai 16. Braden Hamlin-Uele 17. Andrew Fifita
Injuries/suspensions: Braydon Trindall (Round 3), Cameron McIness (Knee, Round 4), Jack Williams (Knee, Round 3-4), Wade Graham (Round 5-6).
Analysis: Matt Ikuvalu will compete for a wing spot with Sione Katoa. Katoa looks to be ahead in that battle.
The halves debate is a hot one as to who partners Nicho Hynes – Matt Moylan or Braydon Trindall?
Well, Trindall was suspended in the trial match for the first two games of the season, so that’s one less decision for Craig Fitzgibbon.
I’m not sure which way it’ll go once Trindall is available, but I’m happy to go on record as saying I don’t think a Moylan-Hynes combination will work at all, and I’m a big fan of Moyza.
I’d be very disappointed if Trindall didn’t get the nod, he’ll be a far better pairing with Hynes, and take immense pressure off the former Storm fullback to control the team. To be fair, Trindall was poor in the trial game, but I tend not too look far into the pre-season fixtures form-wise with already established players.
Moylan’s body can be managed in lesser game time, he’s extremely versatile, and will add stacks coming off the bench. However, Moylan has been handed first crack and can lock down the spot with strong early performances.
Cameron McInnes had minor pre-season surgery and is expected to miss the first month. Jack Williams is in a similar boat and will miss the start of the season, as will Wade Graham following a trial injury, the list is building up.
Aiden Tolman and Teig Wilton will likely earn runs as a result.
Full squad: Jayden Berrell (2022), Blayke Brailey (2026), Andrew Fifita (2022), Dale Finucane (2025), Wade Graham (2022), Braden Hamlin-Uele (2022), Mawene Hiroti (2022), Royce Hunt (2022), Nicho Hynes (2024), Matt Ikuvalu (2023), Sione Katoa (2023), William Kennedy (2023), Cameron McInnes (2025), Locky Miller (2023), Luke Metcalf (2022), Matt Moylan (2022), Ronaldo Mulitalo (2023), Briton Nikora (2022), Franklin Pele (2022), Jesse Ramien (2023), Toby Rudolf (2024), Siosifa Talakai (2023), Jensen Taumoepeau (2022, CO 2023), Aiden Tolman (2022), Connor Tracey (2024), Braydon Trindall (2023), Jack Williams (2022), Teig Wilton (2023)
Embed from Getty ImagesTITANS
1. Jayden Campbell 2. Phillip Sami 3. Brian Kelly 4. Patrick Herbert 5. Corey Thompson 6. AJ Brimson 7. Toby Sexton 8. Isaac Liu 9. Erin Clark 10. Moeaki Fotuaika 11. Beau Fermor 12. David Fifita 13. Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
Bench: 14. Will Smith 15. Jarrod Wallace 16. Sam Lisone 17. Kevin Proctor
Injuries/suspensions: Joe Vuna (knee, mid-season)
Analysis: This side fairly well picks itself for mine.
The likes of Greg Marzhew and to a lesser degree Esan Marsters will push for backline spots, but it looks fairly set to start the year.
The bench looks pretty straight forward too, with Will Smith’s versatility likely to cover many potential injuries that may arise mid-game.
However, there’s the option to play Tanah Boyd at 14 too, but aside from Fermor that leaves very slim backline replacements.
Fermor looks to have pipped Kevin Proctor for a starting back-row role.
Full squad: Tanah Boyd (2024), AJ Brimson (2026), Jayden Campbell (2024), Erin Clark (2023), Herman Ese’ese (2022), Tino Fa’asuamaleaui (2026), Beau Fermor (2024), David Fifita (2023), Sosefo Fifita (2023), Moeaki Fotuaika (2024), Patrick Herbet (2023), Jaimin Joliffe (2024), Brian Kelly (2023), Alofi’ana Khan-Pereira (2023), Sam Lisone (2023, CO 2024), Isaac Liu (2024), Esan Marsters (2022), Greg Marzhew (2023), Sam McIntyre (2022), Kevin Proctor (2022), Phillip Sami (2024), Toby Sexton (2024), Will Smith (2022, MO 2023), Corey Thompson (2022, CO 2023), Paul Turner (2023), Joseph Vuna (2023), Jarrod Wallace (2022)
Embed from Getty ImagesSEA EAGLES
1. Tom Trbojevic 2. Jason Saab 3. Brad Parker 4. Morgan Harper 5. Reuben Garrick 6. Kieran Foran 7. Daly Cherry-Evans 8. Taniela Paseka 9. Lachlan Croker 10. Martin Taupau 11. Haumole Olakau’atu 12. Karl Lawton 13. Jake Trbojevic
Bench: 14. Dylan Walker 15. Ethan Bullemor 16. Sean Keppie 17. Toafofoa Sipley
Injuries/suspensions: Josh Aloiai (suspension, Round 4), Josh Schuster (Round 4-6), Haumole Olakau’atu (arm, indefinite), Dylan Walker, Morgan Harper.
Analysis: An extremely settled line-up, with Josh Aloiai to come into the mix for a bench spot on return from suspension in round 4.
Josh Schuster suffered a pre-season ankle injury and may miss up to six weeks.
Andrew Davey is a quality footballer and will come into consideration for the bench role on return from a lengthy injury layoff, however not being named for either trial suggests he’ll be eased back through NSW Cup.
Brisbane recruit Ethan Bullemor is firming and may even start ahead of Lawton. The Schuster injury helps these two significantly.
Haumole Olakau’atu may miss the start of the season due to injury, which would likely see Bullemor and Lawton start.
It’ll also help the credentials of popular dual position cheapie Ben Trbojevic who will be considered for a bench role with Schuster out, and Walker in doubt for Round 1.
19-year-old Tolutau Koula is a truly enticing prospect with blistering speed.
He’s every chance at getting a run at some stage this season, and with Morgan Harper in doubt, round 1 wouldn’t be a shock.
Full squad: Josh Aloiai (2023), Morgan Boyle (2022), Ethan Bullemor (2023), Daly Cherry-Evans (2023), Lachlan Croker (2023), Andrew Davey (2022), Sione Fainu (2022), Kieran Foran (2022), Reuben Garrick (2023), Morgan Harper (2023), Sean Keppie (2024), Tolutau Koula (2024), Karl Lawton (2022), Haumole Olakau’ata (2024), Brad Parker (2023), Taniela Paseka (2024), Jason Saab (2023), Josh Schuster (2024), Toafofoa Sipley (2023), Jorge Taufua (2022), Martin Taupau (2022), Ben Trbojevic (2023), Jake Trbojevic (2026), Tom Trbojevic (2026), Christian Tuipulotu (2024), Alec Tu’itavake (2023), Dylan Walker (2022), Kaeo Weekes (2023)
Embed from Getty ImagesSTORM
1. Ryan Papenhuyzen 2. George Jennings 3. Reimis Smith 4. Justin Olam 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Jesse Bromwich 9. Harry Grant 10. Christian Welch 11. Felise Kaufusi 12. Kenneath Bromwich 13. Brandon Smith
Bench: 14. Nick Meaney 15. Tom Eisenhuth 16. Nelson Asofa-Solomona 17. Tepai Moeroa
Injuries/suspensions: Cameron Munster (suspension, Round 2), Harry Grant (suspension, Round 2), Chris Lewis (suspension, Round 2), Tui Kamikamica (stood down, indefinite)
Analysis: Another fairly settled line-up, from Round 2 at least, with Cameron Munster and Harry Grant to miss round 1 due to suspension. Cooper Johns will likely deputise for Munster in the opener, however he’s a fresh injury concerns following the trial win over the Knights and is in doubt too.
With Dale Finucane now departed, it’s uncertain how Craig Bellamy will opt to utilise Harry Grant and Smith this season.
I’m hoping Grant will start at hooker with Smith shifting to Finucane’s starting lock role, but we’ll hopefully get a better idea when the trial teams role out.
The alternate option is obviously as per last year with Grant playing 55-60 off the bench, and Smith shifting to lock when he comes on.
If this eventuated, any of the three bench middles could start at lock, but I’m not a fan of that personally.
Having had the All Star clash included in his suspension, Smith is now available for Round 1.
I wouldn’t be at all surprised to see Nick Meaney start ahead of George Jennings on the wing either, the pair will fight for the spot.
Coates is expected to slot onto Josh Addo-Carr’s vacant left edge spot outside of Cam Munster… Lovely.
Doubt grows over Ryan Papenhuyzen’s fitness every day, I’m leaning towards thinking he’ll miss at least the opening round.
Full squad: Nelson Asofa-Solomona (2023), Jesse Bromwich (2022), Kenny Bromwich (2022, PO 2023), Xavier Coates (2023), Thomas Eisenhuth (2022), Harry Grant (2022, MO 2023), Jordan Grant (2023), Jack Howarth (2022), Jahrome Hughes (2023, PO 2024), Dean Ieremia (2022), George Jennings (2022), Cooper Johns (2022), Tui Kamikamica (2022, CO 2023), Felise Kaufusi (2022), Chris Lewis (2022), Trent Loeiro (2023), Isaac Lumelume (2022), Nick Meaney (2023), Tepai Moeroa (2022, MO 2023) Cameron Munster (2023), Jayden Nikorima (2022), Justin Olam (2022, CO 2023), Ryan Papenhuyzen (2025), Jonah Pezet (2023), Brandon Smith (2022), Reimis Smith (2022), Will Warbrick (2023), Christian Welch (2025), Tyran Wishart (2023)
Embed from Getty ImagesWARRIORS
1. Reece Walsh 2. Jesse Arthars 3. Adam Pompey 4. Rocco Berry 5. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 6. Kodi Nikorima 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Matt Lodge 11. Eliesa Katoa 12. Euan Aitken 13. Josh Curran
Bench: 14. Jazz Tevaga 15. Aaron Pene 16. Ben Murdoch-Masila 17. Bunty Afoa
Injuries/suspensions: Reece Walsh (suspension, Round 2), Matt Lodge (suspension, Round 2), Tohu Harris (knee, mid-season)
Analysis: A few selection headaches loom for Nathan Brown, but all in all I think it’s got the makings of a quality line-up with some nice squad depth.
As for the starting team, there’s copious different avenues that Brown can venture with.
This is of course predominantly around Shaun Johnson’s halves partner.
Chanel Harris-Tavita v Kodi Nikorima v Ash Taylor.
CHT is comfortably the best defender, but arguably offers the least in attack.
Nikorima for mine is the best option, but his versatility as a 14 opens up many avenues.
Following the trials, Nikorima looks the front-runner, while CHT is expected to play fullback in the absence of Reece Walsh in the season opener.
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If they opt for Kodi, they’ll probably run Tevaga as the bench utility, which is enabled as a result of Euan Aitken in the second-row who can cover any backline injuries.
Josh Curran appears to be making the move to lock, which may open up an edge role for Eliesa Katoa.
Jesse Arthars will compete with Marcelo Montoya for a wing role. Viliami Vailea is seriously pushing Adam Pompey for a starting centre role.
Walsh and Matt Lodge return from suspension in round 2, with DWZ to deputise at the back in the opener.
Full squad: Bunty Afoa (2023), Euan Aitken (2023), Jesse Arthars (2022), Rocco Berry (2024), Josh Curran (2023), Wayde Egan (2024), Addin Fonua-Blake (2023), Tohu Harris (2024), Chanel Harris-Tavita (2022), Shaun Johnson (2023), Temple Kalepo (2022), Eliesa Katoa (2024), Matt Lodge (2022, PO 2023), Marcelo Montoya (2022), Jack Murchie (2022), Ben Murdoch-Masila (2023), Kodi Nikorima (2022), Aaron Pene (2023), Iliesa Ratuva (2022), Pride Petterson-Robati (2022), Adam Pompey (2023), Bayley Sironen (2023), Ash Taylor (2022), Jazz Tevaga (2022, PO 2023), Viliami Vailea (2023), Reece Walsh (2023, PO 2024), Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (2024)
Embed from Getty ImagesKNIGHTS
1. Kalyn Ponga 2. Enari Tuala 3. Dane Gagai 4. Bradman Best 5. Dominic Young 6. Jake Clifford 7. Adam Clune 8. David Klemmer 9. Chris Randall 10. Daniel Saifiti 11. Tyson Frizell 12. Lachlan Fitzgibbon 13. Kurt Mann
Bench: 14. Phoenix Crossland 15. Jacob Saifiti 16. Mitchell Barnett 17. Brodie Jones
Injuries/suspensions: Sauaso Sue (suspension, Round 3), Jayden Brailey (Achilles, mid-season), Hymel Hunt (Approx Round 4), Bradman Best
Analysis: Jake Clifford and Adam Clune form a new-look halves pairing.
Jacob Saifiti was the preferred starter to David Klemmer at prop in the backend of last season, this may eventuate again, but I have big Klem starting.
Chris Randall is tipped to replace the injured Jayden Brailey at hooker.
Dominic Young should get a start on the wing with Hymel Hunt injured.
Elsewhere looks pretty set in stone once Sauaso Sue returns from suspension in round 3 and will push for a bench spot.
Full squad: Mitchell Barnett (2023), Bradman Best (2024), Jayden Brailey (2025), Jake Clifford (2023), Adam Clune (2023), Phoenix Crossland (2022), Lachlan Fitzgibbon (2022, PO 2023), Tyson Frizell (2022, PO 2023), Dane Gagai (2024), Bailey Hodgson (2023), Hymel Hunt (2023), Jack Johns (2023), Brodie Jones (2023), Jacob Kiraz (2022), David Klemmer (2023), Kurt Mann (2023), Anthony Milford (2022), Jirah Momoisea (2022), Brayden Musgrove (2022), Kalyn Ponga (2022, PO 2023, PO 2024), Chris Randall (2023), Daniel Saifiti (2026), Jacob Saifiti (2024), Simi Sasagi (2022), Pasami Saulo (2022), Sauaso Sue (2022), Enari Tuala (2023), Dom Young (2023)
Embed from Getty ImagesCOWBOYS
1. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow 2. Kyle Feldt 3. Valentine Holmes 4. Peta Hiku 5. Murray Taulagi 6. Tom Dearden 7. Chad Townsend 8. Coen Hess 9. Reece Robson 10. Jordan McLean 11. Jeremiah Nanai 12. Heilum Luki 13. Jason Taumalolo
Bench: 14. Jake Granville 15. Reuben Cotter 16. Ben Condon 17. Tom Gilbert
Injuries/suspensions: N/A
Analysis: Tom Dearden appears to have edged Scott Drinkwater in the race to partner halfback Chad Townsend.
Val Holmes will play left centre this season, at least early on, with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow to play fullback.
The edge back-row spot is up for grabs, I’m liking promising rookies Heilum Luki and Jeremiah Nanai to get the gig.
They may opt to start Taumalolo at prop, with Reuben Cotter at lock and Coen Hess off the bench.
Squad depth may pose a few issues here when injuries strike.
Full squad: Daejan Asi (2022), Kane Bradley (2022), Lachlan Burr (2022), Ben Condon (2023), Reuben Cotter (2022), Tom Dearden (2024), Scott Drinkwater (2023), Mitchell Dunn (2022), Kyle Feldt (2024), Thomas Gilbert (2022), Jake Granville (2022, CO 2023), Ben Hampton (2022), Coen Hess (2024), Peta Hiku (2023), Valentine Holmes (2025), Connelly Lemuelu (2022), Heilum Luki (2022), Jordan McLean (2022), Laitia Moceidreke (2023), Jeremiah Nanai (2022), Griffin Neame (2023), Emry Pere (2022), Reece Robson (2023), Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (2023), Murray Taulagi (2023), Jason Taumalolo (2027), Jamayne Taunoa-Brown (2023), Chad Townsend (2024)
Embed from Getty ImagesEELS
1. Clint Gutherson 2. Sean Russell 3. Will Penisini 4. Waqa Blake 5. Bailey Simonsson 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Reagan Campbell-Gillard 9. Reed Mahoney 10. Junior Paulo 11. Ryan Matterson 12. Isaiah Papali’i 13. Nathan Brown
Bench: 14. Ray Stone 15. Marata Niukore 16. Oregon Kaufusi 17. Shaun Lane
Injuries/suspensions: Marata Niukore (suspension, Round 2), Maika Sivo (knee, mid-season), Haze Dunster (Knee, season)
Analysis: Pretty straight forward here, the team fairly well picks itself. Dunster’s pre-season injury is a huge blow for the young gun and for SuperCoaches.
That injury opens up a wing role, with Sean Russell a big chance at filling the vacant spot.
Makahesi Makatoa impressed in the front-row in both trials and may sneak onto the bench ahead of Oregon Kaufusi.
Full squad: Jakob Arthur (2022), Waqa Blake (2023), Dylan Brown (2022, 2023), Nathan Brown (2023), Reagan Campbell-Gillard (2025), Bryce Cartwright (2023), Haze Dunster (2025), Clint Gutherson (2025), Wiremu Greig (2022), David Hollis (2023), Oregon Kaufusi (2022), Shaun Lane (2023), Reed Mahoney (2022), Ryan Matterson (2022), Makahesi Makatoa (2022), Mitchell Moses (2023, PO 2024), Solomone Naiduki, Marata Niukore (2022), Tom Opacic (2022), Isaiah Papali’i (2022), Junior Paulo (2026), Will Penisini (2023), Hayze Perham (2022), Mitch Rein (2022), Sean Russell (2023), Bailey Simonsson (2024), Maika Sivo (2022, PO 2023), Ray Stone (2022)
Embed from Getty ImagesPANTHERS
1. Dylan Edwards 2. Charlie Staines 3. Stephen Crichton 4. Izack Tago 5. Brian To’o 6. Jarome Luai 7. Nathan Cleary 8. Moses Leota 9. Apisai Koroisau 10. James Fisher-Harris 11. Viliame Kikau 12. Liam Martin 13. Isaah Yeo
Bench: 14. Mitch Kenny 15. Matt Eisenhuth 16. Scott Sorensen 17. Spencer Leniu
Injuries/suspensions: N/A
Analysis: Not a lot of conjecture here, with boom rookie Izack Tago likely to slot into the vacant centre role.
The only possible change I see is if Ivan Cleary opted for another utility back such as Taylan May on the bench as injury coverage in the backline. Kurt Capewell provided this luxury last season.
Robert Jennings will push Charlie Staines for a wing role also.
Full squad: Eddie Blacker (2022), Nathan Cleary (2024), Christian Crichton (2022), Stephen Crichton (2023), Dylan Edwards (2022), Matt Eisenhuth (2022), Kurt Falls (2022), James Fisher-Harris (2026), J’maine Hopgood (2022), Robert Jennings (2022), Mitch Kenny (2024), Viliame Kikau (2022), Apisai Koroisau (2022), Spencer Leniu (2023), Moses Leota (2024), Jarome Luai (2024), Liam Martin (2023), Taylan May (2022), Sean O’Sullivan (2022), Jaeman Salmon (2022), Chris Smith (2022), Lindsay Smith (2022), Scott Sorensen (2023), Charlie Staines (2023), Izack Tago (2023), Brian To’o (2023), Isaah Yeo (2024)
Embed from Getty ImagesRABBITOHS
1. Latrell Mitchell 2. Alex Johnston 3. Jaxson Paulo 4. Campbell Graham 5. Josh Mansour 6. Cody Walker 7. Lachlan Ilias 8. Mark Nicholls 9. Damien Cook 10. Tevita Tatola 11. Keaon Koloamatangi 12. Jai Arrow 13. Cameron Murray
Bench: 14. Blake Taaffe 15. Jacob Host 16. Thomas Burgess 17. Hame Sele
Injuries/suspensions: Latrell Mitchell (suspension, Round 2), Liam Knight (Round 4)
Analysis: Blake Taaffe will start the season at fullback for the first two rounds before Latrell Mitchell returns from suspension in round 2. Lachlan Ilias replaces Adam Reynolds in the halves.
Josh Mansour will be nipping away in competition for a backline spot, he could play wing, with Jaxson Paulo at centre and Taane Milne missing out.
The team again picks itself, except for the 14 role which is up for grabs with Benji Marshall departed and Anthony Milford’s short stint over.
I’ve seen suggestions of recruit Siliva Havili, which may well work, but it gives them four big men on the bench, and with a hooker and back-row all capable of playing 80-minutes it doesn’t make a heap of sense to me.
Taaffe can cover the backline should injuries arise, granted they’d probably need a player capable of deputising for Damien Cook if injured, but perhaps they take the chance of naming Havili as the 18th man?
Full squad: Jai Arrow (2024), Zane Bijorac (2022), Tom Burgess (2023), Jed Cartwright (2023), Michael Chee-Kam (2022), Damien Cook (2023), Campbell Graham (2024), Siliva Havili (2023), Jacob Host (2023), Lachlan Ilias (2023), Alex Johnston (2025), Terrell Kalo Kalo (2023), Liam Knight (2023), Keaon Kolomatangi (2024), Peter Mamouzelos (2024), Josh Mansour (2022), Taane Milne (2022), Latrell Mitchell (2023), Davvy Moale (2023), Cameron Murray (2025), Mark Nicholls (2023), Jaxson Paulo (2022), Hame Sele (2023), Blake Taaffe (2023), Isaiah Tass (2022), Tevita Tatola (2024), Cody Walker (2023)
Embed from Getty ImagesDRAGONS
1. Tyrell Sloan 2. Cody Ramsey 3. Moses Suli 4. Zac Lomax 5. Mikaele Ravalawa 6. Talatau Amone 7. Ben Hunt 8. Blake Lawrie 9. Andrew McCullough 10. Aaron Woods 11. Jack Bird 12. Tariq Sims 13. Jack de Belin
Bench: 14. Moses Mbye 15. George Burgess 16. Francis Molo 17. Jaydn Su’A
Injuries/suspensions: Josh McGuire (suspension, Round 6), Tyrell Fuimaono (Suspension, Round 6), Max Feagai (Long-term)
Analysis: One of the far more difficult clubs to predict their starting 17, in large part due to the uncertainty around where Jack Bird will play.
Early suggestions are that he’ll play in the back-row, and while some are suggesting Jack de Belin will play front-row to accommodate his move to lock, I don’t like it.
De Belin is one of the best link men in the game and plays a key role in the side at lock, while I also think Bird is significantly better used on the edge.
This means Jaydn Su’A would start from the bench, while Aaron Woods is one of several options to partner Blake Lawrie at prop.
Ben Hunt’s halves partner is expected to be Talatau Amone following trials.
As usual, Moses Mbye could play anywhere, but 14 seems his best role.
Full squad: Daniel Alvaro (2022), Talatau Amone (2023), Jack Bird (2022), George Burgess (2023), Billy Burns (2022), Jack de Belin (2023, PO 2024), Matthew Feagai (2024), Max Feagai (2024), Poasa Faamausili (2022), Jackson Ford (2022), Tyrell Fuimaono (2023), Jack Gosiewski (2022), Ben Hunt (2023), Josh Kerr (2023), Blake Lawrie (2022), Zac Lomax (2026), Moses Mbye (2023), Andrew McCullough (2023), Josh McGuire (2022), Tautau Moga (2022), Francis Molo (2024), Cody Ramsey (2024), Mikaele Ravalawa (2023 PO 2024), Tariq Sims (2022), Jaydn Su’A (2024), Moses Suli (2024), Jayden Sullivan (2025), Aaron Woods (2022, PO 2023)
Embed from Getty ImagesROOSTERS
1. James Tedesco 2. Daniel Tupou 3. Paul Momirovski 4. Joseph Manu 5. Joseph Suaalii 6. Sam Walker 7. Luke Keary 8. Jared Waerea-Hargreaves 9. Sam Verrills 10. Siosiua Taukeiaho 11. Angus Crichton 12. Sitili Tupouniua 13. Victor Radley
Bench: 14. Connor Watson 15. Lindsay Collins 16. Egan Butcher 17. Nat Butcher
Injuries/suspensions: Sam Verrills (suspension, Round 2), Joseph Suaalii, Luke Keary
Analysis: My word, strong side.. The injured cavalry return, along with a few class recruits.
The backline depth is exceptional with Billy Smith, Paul Momirovski, Kevin Naiqama and Joseph Suaallii shooting for the vacant centre and wing roles.
Many are tipping grand final winner Momirovski to slot in at centre, at this stage it appears that way.
I think Smith is a quality talent who’s been plagued by injuries early in his career, they may want him with a few games under his belt before ramping him up to NRL level straight away.
Joseph Suaalii isn’t locked into the wing, and while he’s still young, surely he’s too good to leave out? Naiqama could get this role.
Siosiua Taukeiaho and Lindsay Collins could switch between starting prop and bench, but I don’t think it’ll impact overall game time too significantly either way.
Connor Watson may start at hooker in round 1 until Sam Verrills returns the following week, Ben Marschke may be the preferred option though.
Full squad: Renouf Atoni (2023), Fletcher Baker (2023), Egan Butcher (2023), Nat Butcher (2024), Lindsay Collins (2026), Angus Crichton (2022), Moala Graham-Taufa (2022), Drew Hutchison (2023), Luke Keary (2024), Adam Keighran (2022, CO 2023), Lachlan Lam (2022), Freddy Lussick (2022), Joseph Manu (2024), Ben Marschke (2022), Paul Momirovski (2024), Kevin Naiqama (2022), Victor Radley (2023), Billy Smith (2023), Joseph Suaalii (2022, PO 2023, PO 2024), Daniel Suluka-Fifita (2022), Siosiua Taukeiaho (2022), James Tedesco (2024), Ben Thomas (2022), Daniel Tupou (2023), Sitili Tupouniua (2024), Sam Verrills (2024), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (2023), Sam Walker (2023), Connor Watson (2023), Naufahu Whyte (2024)
Embed from Getty ImagesTIGERS
1. Daine Laurie 2. David Nofoaluma 3. Oliver Gildart 4. James Roberts 5. Ken Maumalo 6. Jackson Hastings 7. Luke Brooks 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Jake Simpkin 10. James Tamou 11. Kelma Tuilagi 12. Luciano Leilua 13. Alex Twal
Bench: 14. Tyrone Peachey 15. Thomas Mikaele 16. Zane Musgrove 17. Joe Ofahengaue
Injuries/suspensions: Adam Doueihi (knee, mid-season), Tommy Talau (knee, mid-season), Shawn Blore (ACL, season), Jacob Liddle (knee, Round 3/4).
Analysis: Another really difficult roster to predicted here and one that will likely change as the trials kick off.
The backline largely picks itself, outside of the centre gig that I feel they’ll give to James Roberts, but Starford To’a will be strongly considered.
Youngster Junior Tupou is highly regarded, while Asu Kepaoa will be considered when fully fit.
I feel Peachey will be utilised at the bench utility and will spend his time in the middle of the ruck.
If Jacob Liddle’s body won’t allow him to play 80, Peachey can deputise at hooker to give him a spell.
He’ll miss the first month of action with a knee injury, meaning Jake Simpkin likely starts at hooker.
Shawn Blore suffered a season-ending ACL injury at training in a huge blow to the club.
Luke Garner didn’t feature in trials, meaning Kelma Tuilagi is firming to start on the edge.
There’s numerous options that will be considered as starting lock.
Full squad: Shawn Blore (2023), Luke Brooks (2023), Adam Doueihi (2023), Luke Garner (2022), Oliver Gildart (2023), Jackson Hastings (2023), Reece Hoffman (2023), Asu Kepaoa (2023), William Kei (2022), Daine Laurie (2023), Luciano Leilua (2022), Jacob Liddle (2023), Jock Madden (2022), Ken Maumalo (2023, PO 2024), Thomas Mikaele (2022), Zane Musgrove (2024), David Nofoaluma (2025), Joe Ofahengaue (2022 MO 23), Tyrone Peachey (2023), Alex Seyfarth (2023), Jake Simpkin (2024), Tuki Simpkins (2023), Tommy Talau (2022), James Tamou (2022), Starford To’a (2023), Kelma Tuilagi (2022), Junior Tupou (2024), Alex Twal (2024), Stefano Utoikamanu (2023)
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