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Rando’s Tips

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

Taking a look at each club's expected Round 1 team list based off club and trusted media sources on the ground at preseason.

Last updated 29 Jan 2026

Brisbane Broncos Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Reece Walsh

LW Josiah Karapani

LC Gehamat Shibasaki

RC Kotoni Staggs

RW Deine Mariner

F/E Ezra Mam

HB Adam Reynolds

PR Payne Haas

HK Ben Hunt

PR Corey Jensen

LSR Aublix Tawha/Jack Gosiewski

RSR Jordan Riki

LK Patrick Carrigan

Bench: Cory Paix, Xavier Willison, Jack Gosiewski/Aublix Tawha, Ben Talty

Talking points

  • Brendan Piakura will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, with Aublix Tawha and Jack Gosiewski fighting for the starting left 2nd row spot. Aublix Tawha leading atm.
  • Ben Hunt has publicly claimed the Broncos are best with him at #9. He has only been training at hooker, so expect him to start with Cory Paix covering off the bench.
  • Grant Anderson was signed from the Storm, but it seems like Madge will stay solid with the backline that won the club a Premiership last October.

Canberra Raiders Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Kaeo Weekes

LW Savelio Tamale

LC Seb Kris

RC Matt Timoko

RW Xavier Savage

F/E Ethan Strange

HB Ethan Sanders

PR Joseph Tapine

HK Tom Starling

PR Josh Papali'i

LSR Hudson Young

RSR Zac Hosking

LK Corey Horsburgh

Bench: Owen Pattie/Jayden Brailey, Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Morgan Smithies

Talking points

  • The 3-way battle for hooker is heating up. No word on who is ahead from any sources, so we might not know till Team List Tuesday.
  • Sione Finau has been impressing in the centres this preseason, but it should be Kris and Timoko to start. A watch for sure.
  • Josh Papali'i will be a watch in his final season. Could see him come off the bench with Corey Horsburgh starting and Smithies at lock.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Connor Tracey

LW Marcelo Montoya

LC Bronson Xerri

RC Stephen Crichton

RW Jacob Kiraz

F/E Matt Burton

HB Lachlan Glvin

PR Max King

HK Bailey Hayward

PR Leo Thompson

LSR Viliame Kikau

RSR Jacob Preston

LK Jaeman Salmon

Bench: Kurt Mann, Josh Curran, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes

Talking points

  • Mitchell Woods suffered a hamstring strain in late January and will be pushing to play the 2nd trial match. Phil Gould shut down rumours of Matt Burton moving to fullback to accommodate for Woods and Lachlan Galvin in the halves via Twitter
  • Finau Latu has been impressing in preseason and could snag a bench spot. He should debut at some point this season

Cronulla Sharks Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Will Kennedy

LW Sam Stonestreet

LC KL Iro

RC Jesse Ramien

RW Sione Katoa

F/E Braydon Trindall

HB Nicho Hynes

PR Addin Fonua-Blake

HK Blayke Brailey

PR Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf

LSR Teig Wilton

RSR Briton Nikora

LK Jesse Colquhoun

Bench: Sifa Talakai, Billy Burns, Oregon Kaufusi/Toby Rudolf, Tom Hazelton

Talking points

  • Jesse Colquhoun and Sam Stonestreet will be the beneficiaries from Cam McInnes (Rd 6 return) and Ronaldo Mulitalo's (end of season) ACL injuries
  • The loss of Daniel Atkinson frees up a bench spot for a middle forward. Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, Tuku Hau Tapuha, Tom Hazelton, Braden Hamlin-Uele will all be pushing for inclusion

Dolphins Predicted Round 1 Team

FB Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow

LW Selwyn Cobbo

LC Herbie Farnworth

RC Jake Averillo

RW Jamayne Isaako

F/E Kodi Nikorima

HB Isaiya Katoa

PR Tom Flegler/Francis Molo

HK Kurt Donoghoe

PR Daniel Saifiti

LSR Oryn Keeley

RSR Kulikefu Finefeuiaki

LK Morgan Knowles

Bench: Brad Schneider/Trai Fuller, Francis Molo, Connelly Lemuelu, Tom Gilbert

Talking points

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