We look ahead to the 2025 NRL SEASON. Can anyone stop the PANTHERS winning five in a row?
07
The ONE NZ WARRIORS original captain DEAN BELL remembers that amazing opening night 30 years ago when history was made
08 For just the second time, the ONE NZ WARRIORS have named CO-CAPTAINS to lead the side in 2025. Let’s meet them
10
We preview the ONE NZ WARRIORS season ahead. After a disappointing 2024, the pressure is on to perform.
12
FACTS AND FIGURES:
We look back to all the record breakers at the ONE NZ WARRIORS since the debut season in 1995 through to 2024.
NATHAN CLEARY PAGE 26
WATENE-ZELEZNIAK PAGE 21
ISSN 2463-5472 (PRINT)
ISSN 2463-5480 (ONLINE)
COPYRIGHT REPRODUCTION IN WHOLE OR PART BY ANY MEANS IS PROHIBITED.
14
ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES:
All the player movements across the 16 Australian NRL clubs and dates for the 2025 STATE OF ORIGIN SERIES
16 View the 2025 NRL PREMIERSHIP DRAW and plan your season ahead.
18 DETAILED PROFILES of the 2025 ONE NZ WARRIORS PLAYERS including key career statistics
DISCLAIMER
THE OPINIONS EXPRESSED IN THIS MAGAZINE DO NOT NECESSARILY REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE PUBLISHER. ALTHOUGH MATERIAL IS CHECKED FOR ACCURACY, NO LIABILITY IS ASSUMED BY THE PUBLISHER FOR ANY LOSS DUE TO USE OF MATERIAL IN THIS MAGAZINE.
NRL PREMIERSHIP TEAM PREVIEWS and PREDICTIONS FOR THE AUSTRALIAN TEAMS:
25 BRONCOS, BULLDOGS, COWBOYS and DOLPHINS
26 PANTHERS, DRAGONS, EELS and KNIGHTS
29 RABBITOHS, ROOSTERS, RAIDERS and SHARKS
30 STORM, TITANS, WESTS TIGERS and SEA EAGLES
NOTE
TAB ODDS THROUGHOUT THE MAGAZINE WERE CORRECT ON 1 MARCH 2025. TO CHECK IF ANY ODDS HAVE BEEN UPDATED PLEASE VISIT TAB.CO.NZ
DALLIN
NEW NRL SEASON SET TO KICK OFF
/ by PETER WHITE
CAN ANYONE STOP THE PENRITH PANTHERS WINNING FIVE TITLES IN A ROW?
There always comes that moment when sports fans have had enough of the same team winning all the time.
That time has arrived in the NRL with the Penrith Panthers winning the last four Grand Finals. Fans love to see the Premiership won by more than just one outfit. It makes for a far more intriguing competition and gives every team hope that maybe, just maybe, this is our year.
If the Panthers manage to go all the way this year and record another October triumph, they will equal the South Sydney Rabbitohs who won five straight titles between 1925–29. The ultimate record of 11 consecutive Premierships won by St George Dragons between 1956–66 is unlikely to ever be beaten.
The Panthers thoroughly deserve their run of success. The brains trust between coach Ivan Cleary and his senior players have continued to spring surprises on their finals’ opponents. Last year’s victory over the Melbourne Storm is the perfect example of tactical intelligence used to perfection. The Storm won the Minor Premiership with 19 wins from 24 games, including beating the Panthers twice, but came unstuck when it mattered most.
IF THE PANTHERS MANAGE TO GO ALL THE WAY THIS YEAR AND RECORD ANOTHER OCTOBER TRIUMPH, THEY WILL EQUAL
THE SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS WHO WON FIVE STRAIGHT TITLES BETWEEN 1925–29.
The Broncos thought they had the Panthers beaten in the Grand Final in 2023, before halfback Nathan Cleary again showed his ability to win the biggest moments in key games by sparking the Panthers to glory.
The Panthers have added quality to their playing depth by enticing out to west Sydney two talented young players in centre/wing Blaize Talagi and Kiwis second-rower Isaiah Papali’i. But the Panthers are without significant players from last year. Top of that list is Kiwis captain James Fisher-Harris, roundly regarded as the best prop in the game, who has shifted across the Tasman to the One NZ Warriors. Jerome Luai, who formed the pivotally crucial halves combination with Cleary, and quality wing Sunia Turuva have both transferred to the West Tigers.
Only time will tell how transformative the loss of Fisher-Harris will be but certainly the rest of the teams have taken notice.
The Storm look the most likely team to topple the Panthers in 2025. Coach Craig Bellamy, about to start his 23rd season in charge, just needs better luck with injuries to key personnel.In fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, five-eighth Cameron Munster and halfback Jahrome Hughes, he has three of the finest attacking minds in the game. Key newcomers include barnstorming NSW Origin prop Stefano Utoikamanu and All Blacks Sevens star Moses Leo, who was given an early release by NZ Rugby to join the Storm in time for the start of the season.
The TAB has rated the Broncos and Sharks as next best to win the Premiership. Based on their off-season recruitment, both teams are likely to go deep into the play-offs in September. A Grand Final place? Potentially, but the two favourites will take some beating.
The Broncos went from the high of a Grand Final in 2023 to abject failure last year and an embarrassing 12th place finish. Out went coach Kevin Walters to be replaced by known disciplinarian Michael Maguire. He took little time in putting a stop to some of the players’ attitudes to keeping their training tops on in the summer heat. A small thing maybe but indicative of a harder edge that can only make the Broncos a more compelling unit.
The Sharks last won the Premiership in 2016 and since then have been one of the most consistent sides in the NRL. Sadly, their final’s run has ended just short of the Grand Final every time. Last year, they were beaten by eventual champions Penrith Panthers a week before the big dance.
Hopes are high in the shire that Aiden Fonua-Blake can help them make that final step up in 2025. On his day, the 29-year-old recruited from the Warriors is as good as any prop in the world. Whether he can dominate the middle of the ruck, and showcase his running metres, will be fascinating to watch over the coming months.
The Warriors know another poor season like the last, when they finished 13th despite sold out crowds at every home game, is totally unacceptable. Coach Andrew Webster has made his first bold move by giving fearless second-rower Mitch Barnett and new recruit James Fisher-Harris co-captaincy responsibilities. Barnett proved his leadership skills in 2024 when his outstanding form was rewarded with selection in the w Origin team. Kiwis captain Fisher-Harris may well be the signing of the year and his superior leadership skills will be momentous to the whole squad.
Keep an eye on the Wests Tigers. After three wooden spoons in a row, Benji Marshall’s side has recruited cleverly and may be an outside chance of making the eight.
THE PENRITH PANTHERS CELEBRATE AFTER WINNING LAST YEAR’S GRAND FINAL.
Running it straight. Selling it straight.
Official Energy Partner of the One NZ Warriors.
IT WAS A NIGHT TO REMEMBER 30 YEARS AGO
THE ONE NZ WARRIORS DEBUT 30 YEARS AGO CHANGED
RUGBY LEAGUE IN NEW ZEALAND FOREVER.
/ by PETER WHITE
March 10, 1995. A date that will forever bookmark the start of the One NZ Warriors journey on the quest for an NRL Premiership title. That opening game, in the then Winfield Cup, was 30 years ago but for those who witnessed the extraordinary spectacle at Mt Smart, or who played that memorable night, the memories will never fade.
The Brisbane Broncos arrived in Auckland with a star-studded line-up. Waiting for them was a Warriors team with experienced campaigners from playing in Australia and England, blended together with the best of local talent. The Warriors lifted rugby league to a level never seen before in this country, long before Super Rugby or the A-League or the Breakers. The pre-match entertainment of a mock battle featuring soldiers, helicopters and tanks firing under a spectacular light show, was the most outrageous and expensive pre-match entertainment ever staged in New Zealand.
In the semi-darkness in the tunnel connecting Mt Smart’s two fields, the Warriors waited for their cue to run out. Captain Dean Bell stood ahead of his men and tried to focus on the game ahead. It was not easy with the smell of smoke in the air and dimmed lights struggling to take hold through the mist. Bell, who was 32, had enjoyed a wonderful career, firstly in Australia with
Easts, 26 tests for the Kiwis and then with Wigan, including seven consecutive Challenge Cup final wins at the iconic Wembley Stadium.
Bell had seen it all, or so he thought. But this was a different level altogether. There was an overwhelming feeling of pride. It was hugely emotional for all the players waiting in the tunnel.
Bell remembers what he was thinking as he endured that long wait.
“I was very experienced by that stage and knew you can lose matches in moments like that. You can get carried away and your legs feel heavy and the occasion can get to people,” he says.
“We didn’t want to let all the hype and excitement that was going on affect our performance. Nothing could prepare you for what happened that night. It really was about how we were going to perform on the field rather than us being there for the occasion.
“That was something I was pushing home to the players a long time before that game. We just didn’t want to disappoint. It was a moment of great pride for myself to lead the team out.”
The Broncos won the game 25-22 after the Warriors had led 22-10. Bell was bitterly disappointed to lose a game they were in control of but was immensely satisfied with how his team played and in his own performance.
The Warriors went on to record some notable victories in that first season.
They just missed making the top eight after being docked two points for exceeding the interchange numbers.
“It was really just going into the unknown with the players. We had a lot of experience in the team but also a lot of new players, like Stacy Jones who were just emerging,” says Bell.
“It was a pretty good campaign for a first year in that competition. I am pretty hard to please so if I am pleased, we must have gone alright.”
Bell often gets asked what the biggest moments in his career are. He can’t split his first Wembley appearance in 1988 and that first Warriors night.
“I never thought I could match a Wembley experience in front of 100,000 people but that debut night against the Broncos certainly did.”
Bell enjoyed giving back to the game after he finished playing. He returned to Wigan to head the youth development programme for seven years before being appointed the Warriors development manager in August, 2007. He then managed the Warriors under-20s side in the Toyota Cup and became the Warriors recruitment and development manager. These days he loves spending time with his three grandchildren and working at the Harbour Hospice shop in Whangaparaoa.
The special memories of that opening night in 1995 are left at the back of his mind most of the time.
But when he is watching a night game from Mt Smart, and the lights are dimmed as the Warriors run out, he can smell the smoke again and the roar from the crowd as he leads out his Warriors team.
Those memories still fill him with pride. They always have and they always will.
DEAN BELL MAKES A BREAK FOR THE WARRIORS IN 1995.
NZRL LEGENDS OF LEAGUE WIGAN WARRIORS HALL OF FAME
NEW LEADERSHIP AT THE “WAHS”
THE ONE NZ WARRIORS HAVE GONE WITH CO-CAPTAINS FOR JUST THE SECOND TIME IN THE CLUB’S HISTORY / by PETER
Losing a captain with the mana that Tohu Harris held could potentially have left a leadership vacuum at the One NZ Warriors ahead of the 2025 campaign. But nothing could be further from the truth with two of the most no-nonsense and honest players in the NRL stepping up to share the role.
Mitchell Barnett and James Fisher-Harris will work in tandem as the appointed captains. They begin a new era following the retirement of Harris after 52 games in charge.
Barnett has already enjoyed captaining the Warriors. The 30-year-old secondrower was in charge for the last nine games of the 2024 season. In many ways, Barnett is like a second coming of legendary former captain, Kevin Campion, who probably shed more blood for the club than any other player. The comparison was apt after the first trial game against the Sharks, when Barnett fronted up for media duties with stitches in a fresh cut on his chin.
He was typically understated after the co-captaincy announcement.
“It was a great opportunity for me, for my family and also for Fish. I don’t want to be anything different than I’ve already been. I just want to be the player everyone wants to play with.”
Barnett has come a long way, in a short time, since he made the hardest decision of his career to move from Newcastle to Auckland in a bid to turn his career around.
“Moving to New Zealand was pretty scary to be fair, especially when my eldest was only 12 months old, but I needed to get out of my comfort zone to get to where I am today.”
Under coach Webster’s calming influence, Barnett has become a highly respected leader and one of the NRL’s most consistent forwards.
“I have changed a lot as a player and as a person. Moving to New Zealand and having a purpose, with my two boys and my wife, has been the biggest reason for that.
“The (players) seem to like me as a leader and Webby trusts me and believes in me. I lead by my actions. I think
WHITE
I articulate what I am trying to say well to the boys and they are following me. It’s the group more than me – we have just got a good group.
“I am taking opportunities that have come my way and it has fallen into place for me.”
Fisher-Harris, who was raised in Kohukohu in Northland, is cut from the very same cloth as Barnett.
The 29-year-old prop joined the Warriors in the off-season. He captained the Kiwis in 2023-2024, including leading his country to a record 30-0 win over the Kangaroos to secure the Pacific Championships title in 2023. For the last five seasons, he has led from the front in the Panthers pack in five consecutive grand finals, winning four straight titles.
Fisher-Harris admits the decision to move away from Penrith was probably the hardest he has ever had to make –but he is welcoming the new challenge. “(An) extremely difficult choice and everything with life off the field and on the field, mates I’ve known for a long time and environment for 12 years. But coming back here, I’m set with my purpose and decision and I’m just fully embracing it, embracing the challenge and it’s a bigger purpose for me now,” Fisher-Harris said.
“I think (I bring) a lot of learnings that I’ve taken over the years, but also in saying that, trying to embrace a new role, I am more of a leader now. I’m at that age and I know that, I’m aware of that now. But at the same time, I’m just trying to be the best version of me, so when I’m doing that, I’m just going to give back anyway so I think that’s the main one.”
Fisher-Harris can see a good foundation for the club to build from after playing against the Warriors through the club’s recent up-and-down results.
“I think consistency and all that, so we’re trying to build the resilience mindset. This is a new crew, so whatever they’ve had in the last how many years, we all come together. I think it’s a clean slate, what we’re trying to build this year.
“There are some similarities from Penrith to here. Obviously, (Penrith) have been very successful over the past five years so obviously just trying to hold those standards, but it’s a clean slate and we’re trying to make it our own.
“I’m still learning the Warriors ways but you can see the buy in from everyone. Everyone’s heading in the right direction. We’re pushing each other, we’re trying to be the best we can be and that’s all we’ve got to do right now.”
JAMES FISHER-HARRIS, LEFT, COACH ANDREW WEBSTER AND MITCH BARNETT AT THE WARRIORS SEASON LAUNCH.
A NEW ERA BEGINS FOR THE ONE NZ WARRIORS IN 2025
LOYAL FANS DEMAND BETTER AFTER A LACKLUSTRE CAMPAIGN LAST YEAR. / by PETER WHITE
Every pre-season, the messages coming out of One NZ Warriors HQ are positive about the campaign ahead, with the emphasis on commitment, improvement, passion and caring about the fans. But along with the better campaigns making the play-offs, and especially the 2022 and 2008 seasons when the Warriors made the Grand Final, there have been too many below-par years for a club with such an exceptional loyal fan base. Even last season when the Warriors finished 13th, every home game was sold out. Quite some record that.
There is a new look to the 2025 Warriors. The club farewelled 958 games of NRL experience during the off-season, with Shaun Johnson (268 games) and Tohu Harris (234) retired, and Addin Fonua-Blake (182), Jazz Tevaga (138) and Marcelo Montoya (136) moving to other clubs.
Coach Andrew Webster still has the nucleus of a quality squad with strong leaders in uncompromising State of Origin rep Mitch Barnett, favourite son Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, veteran utility Dylan Walker, and outstanding new recruit in four-time premiership winner with Penrith, James Fisher-Harris. Barnett and Fisher-Harris have been named as co-captains –a decision that will be universally applauded by players and fans.
When Fonua-Blake announced he was returning to Sydney, there were concerns that the middle of the ruck may be weakened without his dynamic presence.
So to be able to replace him with the Kiwis captain, and arguably the best prop in the world, is one of the savviest recruitment coups in the club’s 30-year history. Webster is delighted with what Fisher-Harris has brought to the training ground, gym and off-field mentoring of the younger players since his arrival in Auckland.
“He’s been awesome. The big thing about Fish is he doesn’t need to talk,” says Webster. “Just him walking into the facility has increased our intensity at training, the way we are prepared to go at each other in a really cool-headed way. And then every now and then he adds bits of gold. He’ll say something and the whole room goes silent.
“He’s got a lot to offer and he’s got lots of experience. He does communicate well but if he feels like he hasn’t got something to say, he won’t waste the air with it. His intensity has been huge. He has fitted in with the group so well. I can see that he’s very passionate about being home and we’re so glad to have him.”
Two of the new players expected to shine for the Warriors in 2025 are halfback/ five-eighth Tanah Boyd and Kiwis lock Erin Clark. Both high quality players have found their way to Auckland from the Gold Coast Titans.
Webster is delighted to have them on his side for the start of the new season.
“Tanah’s got a great kicking game and he can goal kick. We played him (at home) on Anzac Day last year and he did an unbelievable job. He kicked us to death.
I think he’s really well rounded where halves start working it out. I like how fit he is.
“Erin Clark’s a very good player. He got picked for the Kiwis. We played him twice last year and we previewed him hard. We’re super excited to have him. He’s an ex-halfback so he can pass which helps with Tohu (Harris) now retired. He can run too. He’s aggressive.”
Luke Metcalf and Te Maire Martin are top class halves who have proved themselves at NRL level. Metcalf missed most of last season with a broken leg. Hooker Wade Egan is another key part of the Warriors spine, with a fresh new talent in Sam Healey joining from the Sharks to add depth to the hooking stocks.
Tuivasa-Sheck begins his 12th season in the NRL. Most of his 213 appearances have been at fullback but he has played 63 times on the wing. With try-scoring sensation Dallin Watene-Zelezniak set to miss the early stages of the season with a broken wrist suffered in the trial game against the Sharks, the continued excellence shown by incumbent fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and the departure of left wing Montoya to the Bulldogs, the obvious place for RTS is
wing. He did not look comfortable at centre last season, his first back after an unfulfilled crack at rugby union. The Warriors kicked off their 2025 NRL campaign in Las Vegas last weekend against the Canberra Raiders and play their first home game of the season against the Sea Eagles at Go Media Stadium on Friday next 14 March.
LAST YEAR: 13TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: ANDREW WEBSTER
CO-CAPTAINS: JAMES FISHER-HARRIS and MITCH BARNETT
HOME GROUNDS: GO MEDIA STADIUM, AUCKLAND; APOLLO PROJECTS STADIUM, CHRISTCHURCH
WEBSITE: www.warriors.kiwi
TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.co.nz
CONTACT: 2 Beasley Ave, Penrose, Auckland, 1061
POSTAL: PO Box 12-224, Penrose, Auckland, 1642
PHONE: +64 9 526 8822
TAB ODDS: $41.00
ARRIVALS AND DEPARTURES
IN: James Fisher-Harris, Jett Cleary (Panthers), Tanah Boyd, Erin Clark (Titans), Sam Healey (Sharks).
OUT: Nick Cotric, Elliott Whitehead (Catalans), Hohepa Puru (Sharks), James Schiller (Knights), Zac Woolford (Huddersfield), Jordan Rapana (Hull FC), Peter Hola (Norths Devils), Adrian Trevilyan (Northern Pride), Emre Guler (Dragons).
OUT: Joseph Sua’ali’i, Joseph Manu (rugby union), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Hull KR), Luke Keary (Catalans), Sitili Tupouniua (Bulldogs), Terrell May (Tigers), Michael Jennings (retired), Zach Dockar-Clay (unsigned).
MANLY SEA EAGLES |
IN: Joey Walsh (rugby union), Jazz Tevaga (Warriors), Sio Siua Taukei’aho (Catalans), Michael Chee Kam (Rabbitohs).
OUT: Jaxson Paulo, Karl Lawton (Cowboys), Jamie Humphreys (Rabbitohs), Bailey Hodgson (Leigh), Ben Condon (Capras), Brad Parker, Aaron Woods (retired), Matt Lodge, Corey Waddell (unsigned), Joshua Schuster (Rabbitohs).
PARRAMATTA EELS |
IN: Zac Lomax (Dragons), Isaiah Iongi (Panthers), Dean Hawkins (Rabbitohs), Jack Williams (Sharks), Josh Addo-Carr, Jordan Samrani (Bulldogs), Ronald Volkman (unattached), Jamie Humphreys (Sea Eagles).
OUT: Taane Milne, Thomas Burgess (Huddersfield), Damien Cook, Lachlan Ilias (Dragons), Dean Hawkins (Eels), Michael Chee Kam (Sea Eagles), Leon Te Hau (Brisbane Tigers), Izaac Tu’itupou Thompson (Raiders).
|
WESTS TIGERS |
IN: Jarome Luai, Sunia Turuva (Panthers), Jeral Skelton (Bulldogs), Royce Hunt (Sharks), Jack Bird (Dragons), Terrell May (Roosters).
Wairoro Park is a stunning 59.43 hectare property on the Russell Peninsula, offering a unique mix of bush, beach, gardens, and native forest. Just 1km from the Opua ferry and 8km from Russell, it combines privacy with accessibility, making it an ideal location for tourism ventures. The property includes rustic A-frame chalets, cottages, a 1910 farmhouse, and several outbuildings, with endless potential for a high-end wedding venue, eco-retreat, or exclusive accommodation. The land is abundant with birdlife, a secluded beach, and a pocket of virgin forest, all protected by the QEII Trust. With multiple building platforms and a neighbouring boutique vineyard, the possibilities are limitless. Whether used for tourism or as a private retreat, Wairoro Park offers the rare opportunity to own a slice of paradise, complete with bush walks, natural beauty, and even a registered mooring. A true legacy property with immense potential.
Wairoro Park is a stunning 59.43 hectare property on the Russell Peninsula, offering a unique mix of bush, beach, gardens, and native forest. Just 1km from the Opua ferry and 8km from Russell, it combines privacy with accessibility, making it an ideal location for tourism ventures. The property includes rustic A-frame chalets, cottages, a 1910 farmhouse, and several outbuildings, with endless potential for a high-end wedding venue, eco-retreat, or exclusive accommodation. The land is abundant with birdlife, a secluded beach, and a pocket of virgin forest, all protected by the QEII Trust. With multiple building platforms and a neighbouring boutique vineyard, the possibilities are limitless. Whether used for tourism or as a private retreat, Wairoro Park offers the rare opportunity to own a slice of paradise, complete with bush walks, natural beauty, and even a registered mooring. A true legacy property with immense potential.
INTERNATIONAL TENDER
INTERNATIONAL TENDER
April 24th 2025 (unless sold prior)
April 24th 2025 (unless sold prior)
David Baguley, Bayleys Real Estate Kerikeri
David Baguley, Bayleys Real Estate Kerikeri
2025 NRL DRAW
ROUND 1
MARCH 2–9
ROUND 2
MARCH 13–16
ROUND 3
MARCH 20–23
ROUND 4
MARCH 27–30
ROUND 5
APRIL 3–6
ROUND 9
MAY 2–4
MAGIC ROUND, BRISBANE
SHARKS v EELS
ROOSTERS v DOLPHINS
RABBITOHS v KNIGHTS
WARRIORS v COWBOYS WESTS TIGERS v DRAGONS
v BULLDOGS
v BRONCOS BYE: SEA EAGLES
ROUND 10
MAY 8–11
v RAIDERS
v DOLPHINS
v TITANS
v BRONCOS
RAIDERS v BULLDOGS
DRAGONS v WARRIORS
COWBOYS v PANTHERS
STORM v WESTS TIGERS
BYE: ROOSTERS SEA EAGLES v SHARKS
ROUND 11
MAY 16–18
KNIGHTS v EELS
BULLDOGS v ROOSTERS
DOLPHINS v WARRIORS
COWBOYS v SEA EAGLES
SHARKS v STORM
BRONCOS v DRAGONS
RAIDERS v TITANS
BYE: PANTHERS WESTS TIGERS v RABBITOHS
ROUND 12
MAY 22–25
BULLDOGS v DOLPHINS EELS v SEA EAGLES PANTHERS v KNIGHTS
HERE’S EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE ONE NZ WARRIORS PLAYERS AND COACHES –INCLUDING DEBUT INFORMATION, KEY STATS, REPRESENTATIVE HONOURS AND MORE * .
ROCCO BERRY
BORN: MAY 17, 2001 IN MASTERTON
JUNIOR CLUB: ST PATRICK’S COLLEGE, SILVERSTREAM
POSITION: CENTRE
HEIGHT: 191cm WEIGHT: 94kg
REP HONOURS:–
PREVIOUS CLUB: –CLUB and FIRST GRADE DEBUT: WARRIORS v MELBOURNE STORM at AAMI PARK on 25/04/21 (round 7)
NRL APPEARANCES: 43
NRL TRIES: 10
TANAH BOYD
BORN: JULY 28, 2000 IN PENRITH, NSW
JUNIOR CLUB: RUNAWAY BAY SEAGULLS
POSITION: HALFBACK
HEIGHT: 176cm WEIGHT: 86kg
REP HONOURS: AUSTRALIAN SCHOOLBOYS (2017)
PREVIOUS CLUB: GOLD COAST TITANS (2019–24)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT: GOLD COAST TITANS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at McDONALD JONES STADIUM on 31/08/19 (round 24)
REP HONOURS: 3 TESTS for COOK ISLANDS (2015–17), 13 TESTS FOR NZ (2019–24), MAORI ALL-STARS (2019)
FIRST GRADE and CLUB DEBUT: WARRIORS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at MT SMART STADIUM on 30/04/17 (round 9)
NRL APPEARANCES: 113
NRL TRIES: 43
Suit Package $249 Includes Suit, Premium Shirt & Tie
ULTIMATE YOUR BUILD GAME-DAY SNACK LINEUP
Whatever your style of footy, there’s a Shapes player to match your game plan. Who is your pick?
CHICKEN CRIMPY
BORN: 1970s
POSITION: LOCK
HEIGHT: 13CM
WEIGHT: 175G
PROFILE
A Shapes legend - never flashy but always a fan favourite.
STRENGTHS
A workhorse, always puts in an 80-minute performance, smooth in attack, holds up under pressure.
SNACK OCCASION
Post-game analysis session with your mates.
BARBECUE
BORN: 1950s
POSITION: HALFBACK
HEIGHT: 13CM
WEIGHT: 175G
PROFILE
The original Shapes leader, respected across all generations.
STRENGTHS
A playmaker always in control, never wasting a play, and a fan favourite for the way they light up the field—equally loved by teammates and the crowd alike.
SNACK OCCASION
Game day. Any game day. Every game day.
CHEDDAR
BORN: 1990s
POSITION: HOOKER
HEIGHT: 13CM
WEIGHT: 175G
PROFILE
A tackling machine that has been around long enough to earn veteran status.
STRENGTHS
Hard to break down, reliable in pressure moments and brings a classic style to the modern game.
SNACK OCCASION
The thinking fan’s snack - ideal for when you’re breaking down team stats.
Grab a pack for the game!
CHEESE AND BACON
BORN: 2010s
POSITION: PROP
HEIGHT: 13CM
WEIGHT: 180G
PROFILE
An old-school, no-nonsense enforcer - loved by traditionalists.
STRENGTHS
Tough in defence, always brings solid support and never fades late in the game.
SNACK OCCASION
Before kick off when you need to fuel up for a big game.
PIZZA
BORN: 1980s
POSITION: FULLBACK
HEIGHT: 13CM
WEIGHT: 190G
PROFILE
A younger player in the squad but already a cult hero.
STRENGTHS
Brings excitement with every touch, unpredictable in attack, and possesses that true x-factor that can turn the game on its head at any moment.
SNACK OCCASION
Half-time snack when the game is getting intense.
BARBECUE GLUTEN FREE
BORN: 2020s
POSITION: UTILITY
HEIGHT: 13CM
WEIGHT: 110G
PROFILE
A fresh addition to the squad but already proving its worth.
STRENGTHS
Fast, nimble and gives an alternative option without losing the team structure.
SNACK OCCASION
A go-to for gluten-free footy fans to enjoy the game with a classic BBQ crunch.
SHAPES IS PROUDLY THE OFFICIAL SNACK PARTNER OF THE ONE NZ WARRIORS
ADAM POMPEY
BORN: AUGUST 22, 1998 IN AUCKLAND
JUNIOR CLUB: WESLEY COLLEGE
POSITION: CENTRE
HEIGHT: 190cm WEIGHT: 101kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: –
REP HONOURS: MAORI ALL-STARS (2023–24)
FIRST GRADE and CLUB DEBUT:
WARRIORS v CRONULLA SHARKS at SKY STADIUM, WELLINGTON on 19/07/19 (round 18)
NRL APPEARANCES: 94
NRL TRIES: 23
TAINE TUAUPIKI
BORN: AUGUST 31, 1999 IN MANLY, SYDNEY
JUNIOR CLUBS:
NGARUAWAHIA PANTHERS, RUNAWAY BAY SEAGULLS
POSITION: FULLBACK
HEIGHT: 178cm WEIGHT: 83kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: –
REP HONOURS: –
FIRST GRADE and CLUB DEBUT:
WARRIORS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at QUEENSLAND COUNTRY BANK STADIUM on 18/03/23 (round 3)
NRL APPEARANCES: 11
NRL TRIES: 1
ROGER TUIVASA-SHECK
BORN: JUNE 5, 1993 IN APIA, SAMOA
JUNIOR CLUB: OTAHUHU LEOPARDS
POSITION: WINGER
HEIGHT: 182cm WEIGHT: 99kg
PREVIOUS CLUBS:
SYDNEY ROOSTERS (2012–15), WARRIORS (2016–21)
BLUES (RUGBY UNION) 2022–23
REP HONOURS:
20 TESTS for NZ (2013–19); 2 TESTS FOR SAMOA (2024)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT:
SYDNEY ROOSTERS v WARRIORS on 27/07/12 (round 21)
CLUB DEBUT:
WARRIORS v WESTS TIGERS at CAMPBELLTOWN
SPORTS STADIUM on 05/03/16 (round 1)
NRL APPEARANCES: 213
NRL TRIES: 63
BUNTY AFOA
BORN: AUGUST 20, 1996 IN AUCKLAND
JUNIOR CLUBS: PT CHEVALIER PIRATES, MT ALBERT LIONS
POSITION: PROP
HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 113kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: –REP HONOURS: 8 TESTS for SAMOA (2016–22), WORLD CUP (2017)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT and CLUB: WARRIORS v GOLD COAST TITANS at MT SMART STADIUM on 02/07/16 (round 17)
WARRIORS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at GIO STADIUM on 20/09/20 (round 19)
NRL APPEARANCES: 41
NRL TRIES: 1
KURT CAPEWELL
BORN: JULY 12, 1993 IN CHARLEVILLE, QLD
JUNIOR CLUBS:
CHARLEVILLE, NORTHS IPSWICH TIGERS
POSITION: SECOND ROW
HEIGHT: 189cm WEIGHT: 100kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: PENRITH PANTHERS (2020–21)
REP HONOURS: QUEENSLAND (2020–24)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT: CRONULLA SHARKS v PENRITH PANTHERS at BLUEBET STADIUM on 10/07/16 (round 18)
CLUB DEBUT:
YET TO PLAY FOR THE WARRIORS
NRL APPEARANCES: 157
NRL TRIES: 31
WAYDE EGAN
BORN: MARCH 20, 1997 IN LITHGOW, NSW
JUNIOR CLUB: LITHGOW STORM
POSITION: HOOKER
HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 91kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: PENRITH PANTHERS (2018–19)
REP HONOURS: –
FIRST GRADE DEBUT: PENRITH PANTHERS v NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS at 1300SMILES STADIUM on 29/03/18 (round 4)
CLUB DEBUT: WARRIORS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at McDONALD JONES STADIUM on 14/03/20 (round 1)
NRL APPEARANCES: 129
NRL TRIES: 19
JAMES FISHER-HARRIS
BORN: JANUARY 5, 1996 IN RAWENE
JUNIOR CLUB: WHANGAREI MARIST BROTHERS
POSITION: PROP
HEIGHT: 187cm WEIGHT: 103kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: PENRITH (2016–24)
REP HONOURS: 18 TESTS for NZ (2016–23), MAORI ALL STARS (2019–24)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT:
PENRITH PANTHERS v CANBERRA RAIDERS at GIO STADIUM on 5/03/16 (round 1)
CLUB DEBUT: YET TO PLAY FOR THE WARRIORS
NRL APPEARANCES: 203
NRL TRIES: 16
LEKA HALASIMA
BORN: SEPTEMBER 21, 2005 IN TOFOA, TONGA
JUNIOR CLUBS: OTAHUHU LEOPARDS, MANGERE EAST HAWKS
POSITION: SECOND ROW
HEIGHT: 185cm WEIGHT: 100kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: –
REP HONOURS: NEW ZEALAND UNDER-18s
CLUB AND FIRST GRADE DEBUT:
WARRIORS v CANTERBURY BULLDOGS at ACCOR STADIUM on 6/07/24 (round 18)
NRL APPEARANCES: 4
NRL TRIES: 0
JACOB LABAN
BORN: APRIL 17, 2004 IN MOTO’OTUA, SAMOA
JUNIOR CLUBS: TE AROHA EELS, RANDWICK KINGFISHERS, WELLINGTON
POSITION: SECOND ROW
HEIGHT: 189cm WEIGHT: 110kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: –
REP HONOURS: –
FIRST GRADE AND CLUB DEBUT:
WARRIORS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at ACCOR STADIUM on 6/04/24 (round 5)
NRL APPEARANCES: 7
NRL TRIES: 0
NAME SURNAME
JACKSON FORD
BORN: AUGUST 2, 1995 IN AUCKLAND
FEBRUARY 17, 1998 IN SHELLHARBOUR, NSW
CLUB: GERRINGONG LIONS
JUNIOR CLUBS: CITY NEWTON DRAGONS, ALTONA ROOSTERS
POSITION: SECOND ROW
POSITION: FULLBACK
HEIGHT: 187cm WEIGHT: 101kg
HEIGHT: 182cm WEIGHT: 96kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: ST GEORGE DRAGONS (2019–22)
REP HONOURS: –
FIRST GRADE DEBUT: ST GEORGE ILLAWARRA v GOLD COAST TITANS at NETSTRATA JUBILEE STADIUM on 10/08/19 (round 21)
CLUB DEBUT: WARRIORS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at SKY STADIUM, WELLINGTON on 03/03/23 (round 1)
NRL APPEARANCES: 76
PREVIOUS CLUBS: WARRIORS (2017–18), CANBERRA RAIDERS (2019–22) REP HONOURS: 3 TESTS for COOK ISLANDS (2015–17), 7 TESTS FOR NZ (2019–23), MAORI ALL-STARS (2019) FIRST GRADE and CLUB DEBUT: WARRIORS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at MT SMART STADIUM on 30/04/17 (round 9)
NRL TRIES: 9
SAMUEL HEALEY
BORN: JULY 30, 2002 IN PONTEFRACT, ENGLAND
JUNIOR CLUB: ENGADINE DRAGONS
POSITION: HOOKER
HEIGHT: 186cm WEIGHT: 89kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: CRONULLA SHARKS
REP HONOURS: –
GRADE and CLUB DEBUT: YET TO MAKE NRL DEBUT
APPEARANCES: 0
TRIES: 0
FREDDY LUSSICK
BORN: AUGUST 28, 2000 IN SYDNEY
JUNIOR CLUB: BEACON HILL BEARS
POSITION: HOOKER
HEIGHT: 180cm WEIGHT: 84kg
PREVIOUS CLUBS: SYDNEY ROOSTERS (2020–21), ST GEORGE DRAGONS [loan] (2021)
REP HONOURS: –
FIRST GRADE DEBUT: SYDNEY ROOSTERS v WESTS TIGERS at LEICHHARDT OVAL on 22/08/20 (round 15)
CLUB DEBUT: WARRIORS v SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS at SUNCORP STADIUM on 14/05/22 (round 10)
NRL APPEARANCES: 48
NRL TRIES: 3
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MARATA NIUKORE
BORN: JULY 29, 1996 IN AUCKLAND
JUNIOR CLUB: MANGERE EAST HAWKS
POSITION: SECOND ROW
HEIGHT: 188cm WEIGHT: 106kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: PARRAMATTA EELS (2018–22)
REP HONOURS: 3 TESTS for COOK ISLANDS (2017–19), 5 TESTS FOR NZ (2022–24), JUNIOR KIWIS (2015–16)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT:
PARRAMATTA EELS v WARRIORS at ANZ STADIUM on 18/05/18 (round 11)
CLUB DEBUT:
WARRIORS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at SKY STADIUM, WELLINGTON, on 03/03/23 (round 1)
NRL APPEARANCES: 132 NRL TRIES: 14
DEMITRIC SIFAKULA
BORN: MARCH 15, 2004 IN AUCKLAND
JUNIOR CLUB: OTAHUHU LEOPARDS
POSITION: SECOND ROW
HEIGHT: 183cm WEIGHT: 104kg
PREVIOUS CLUB: –
REP HONOURS: –
FIRST GRADE AND CLUB DEBUT:
WARRIORS v SYDNEY ROOSTERS at MT SMART STADIUM on 30/04/23 (round 9)
NRL APPEARANCES: 7
NRL TRIES: 1
DYLAN WALKER
BORN: SEPTEMBER 27, 1994 IN SYDNEY
JUNIOR CLUB: MASCOT JETS
POSITION: LOCK
HEIGHT: 181cm WEIGHT: 98kg
PREVIOUS CLUBS: SYDNEY RABBITOHS (2013–15), MANLY SEA EAGLES (2016–22)
REP HONOURS: 4 TESTS for AUSTRALIA (2014), NSW (2016), MAORI ALL- STARS (2020–24)
FIRST GRADE DEBUT:
SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS v WESTS TIGERS at ACCOR STADIUM on 17/05/13 (round 10)
CLUB DEBUT: WARRIORS v NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS at SKY STADIUM, WELLINGTON, on 03/03/23 (round 1)
NRL APPEARANCES: 229 NRL TRIES: 69
The One NZ Warriors trust their health to USANA
RICHARD AGAR
ANDREW WEBSTER
BORN: JANUARY 17, 1982 IN SYDNEY
APPOINTED: 2023
PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS:
PENRITH PANTHERS ASSISTANT COACH (2021–22)
TOA SAMOA ASSISTANT COACH (2022)
WESTS TIGERS NRL ASSISTANT COACH (2017–2020)
WESTS TIGERS NRL INTERIM HEAD COACH (2017)
WARRIORS ASSISTANT COACH (2015–2016)
PLAYING CAREER:
LOWER GRADE BALMAIN TIGERS (1998–2002)
LOWER GRADE PARRAMATTA EELS (2002)
RYDE-EASTWOOD HAWKS IN THE JIM BEAM CUP (2003)
COACHING RECORD:
WON: 24
LOST: 25
STACEY JONES
BORN: MAY 7, 1976 IN AUCKLAND
APPOINTED: 2017
PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS:
WARRIORS ASSISTANT COACH (2017–24)
WARRIORS INTERIM COACH (2022)
NZ KIWIS ASSISTANT COACH (2018–2023)
MAORI ALL- STARS HEAD COACH (2019)
WARRIORS INTRUST SUPER PREMIERSHIP HEAD COACH (2015–2016)
JUNIOR WARRIORS HEAD COACH (2014)
WARRIORS JNR RECRUITMENT & PATHWAYS COACH (2014)
PLAYING CAREER: 43 TESTS for KIWIS (1995–2006) 261 APPEARANCES for WARRIORS (1995–2005, 2009) 45 APPEARANCES for LES CATALANS, FRANCE (2006–2007)
BORN: JANUARY 20, 1972 IN PONTEFRACT, WEST YORKSHIRE, ENGLAND
APPOINTED: 2023
PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS: TOA SAMOA ASSISTANT COACH (2022) LEEDS HEAD COACH (2019–2022) WARRINGTON FIRST TEAM COACH (2014-2017) FRANCE HEAD COACH (2013-2016) WAKEFIELD HEAD COACH (2012-2014) HULL FC HEAD COACH (2008-2011)
SLADE GRIFFIN
BORN: JANUARY 17, 1991 IN GLEN INNES, NEW SOUTH WALES
APPOINTED: 2024
PREVIOUS APPOINTMENTS:
WARRIORS NEW SOUTH WALES CUP COACH (2023)
WARRIORS NRL TRANSITION COACH (2021–2022)
SKY SPORTS FUTURE WARRIORS COACH (2020)
WARRIORS WOMEN’S COACH WNRL (2020)
CLUB PREVIEWS: SEASON 2025
OVER THE NEXT FOUR PAGES, WE PREVIEW THE 16 AUSTRALIAN TEAMS CHASING A GRAND FINAL PLACE.
BRISBANE BRONCOS
LAST YEAR: 12TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: MICHAEL MAGUIRE
CAPTAIN: ADAM REYNOLDS
HOME GROUND:
SUNCORP STADIUM, BRISBANE
WEBSITE: www.broncos.com.au
TICKETS: premier.ticketek.com.au
CONTACT:
81 Fulcher Road, Red Hill, QLD 4059
POSTAL: Locked Bag 3005, Paddington, QLD 4064
PHONE: +61 7 3858 9111
TAB ODDS: $7.50
New coach Michael Maguire wasted no time on his arrival at Red Hill to install a tougher attitude to pre-season training that is expected to continue right through the campaign.
Maguire quickly enforced players wearing their official training shirts in the hot Queensland sun – no more of the “sun’s out, guns out” mentality that prevailed under former coach Kevin Walters.
The Broncos finished well outside the eight last year in 12th place – after going all the way to the Grand Final the year before and nearly toppling the Panthers – which was simply not good enough considering the quality of the roster they had to work with. The recruitment of Australia and Queensland State of Origin star Ben Hunt may well be the buy of the year. The former Dragons skipper is likely to partner evergreen halfback Adam Reynolds in the halves to start the season, before potentially moving into the hooker role which he has successfully done at the higher levels. In the eyes of many Broncos fans, the player who needs to step up the most is fullback Reece Walsh. No one could ever criticise his brilliant attacking skills but he was found wanting on defence too often in 2024. There were occasions where his concentration levels seemed to waver and he made uncharacteristic mistakes. If he can regain his confidence defending and showcase his audacious ability to cut defences to ribbons, then Walsh will play a huge role in driving the Broncos back into the play-offs.
Talented young outside back Selwyn Cobbo is one to watch in 2025. He spent most of last season in the centres but Maguire has indicated he is better suited to wing.
The draw has given the Broncos three of their opening five games away from home.
There was so much to like about the performance of the Bulldogs in 2024. After a woeful run of results that had seen the famous blue and white jumpers not feature in the play-offs since 2016, last year was a welcome return to the top eight with the Bulldogs finishing well up in sixth place.
This year the club celebrates its 90th anniversary. The 2025 squad has loads of potential under the leadership of new skipper Stephen Crichton. One area head coach Cameron Ciraldo will be looking at is how to get his forward pack dominating the opposition more.
New recruits in prop Tom Amone from the Super League and Tongan international second-rower Sitili Tupouniua from the Roosters, will certainly add greatly to the depth and quality of the pack. Hooker Reed Mahoney and lock forward Josh Curran are top class.
Perhaps the most crucial recruit to this year’s roster is the return of English forward Ryan Sutton, who missed the whole 2024 campaign with injury. The prop should give the pack size and muscle up front. Fingers will be crossed that he can remain healthy. Much will be expected of Toby Sexton and Matt Burton in the halves to maximise the abundant attacking potential in the squad, with highlyrated teenage halfback Mitchell Woods waiting in the wings for his opportunity to play first grade.
Try-scoring wing Marcelo Montoya (Warriors) will be missed at Go Media Stadium. He will add leadership and experience while former Knights wing Enari Tuala is another to add firepower out wide.
Skilful centre Bronson Xerri was one of the standout players last year after his return from a doping ban. With his confidence back, it will be interesting to see how much he can improve on his stellar campaign in 2024.
NORTH QUEENSLAND COWBOYS
LAST YEAR: 5TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: TODD PAYTON
CAPTAINS: REUBEN COTTER and TOM DEARDEN
HOME GROUND: QUEENSLAND
COUNTRY BANK STADIUM
WEBSITE: www.cowboys.com.au
TICKETS:
www.cowboys.com.au/tickets
CONTACT:
Golf Links Drive, Kirwan, QLD 4817
POSTAL: PO Box 577, Thuringowa Central, QLD 4817
PHONE: +61 1 300 462 692
TAB ODDS: $19.00
The Cowboys won a Premiership in 2015 and finished third in 2022 but in-between those lofty highs it has mostly been a struggle to make the eight. Last season was one of the better ones for the Cowboys, with a strong campaign that was ended by the Sharks in a highly competitive semi-final.
Despite that effort, the Cowboys have had a major cleanout of the squad, including big names in champion goalkicker Valentine Holmes, half Chad Townsend and wing Kyle Feldt all moving on. There is plenty of talent recruited to fill the gaps. The major signing is experienced English international second rower John Bateman, who joins the Cowboys from the Tigers. Bateman, 31, has the ability to play either in the middle or on an edge of the ruck. His versatility and leadership will be of great benefit to the Cowboys, particularly in mentoring promising young forwards like Heilum Luki, Jeremiah Nanai and Griffin Neame. Other new recruits expected to hit the ground running for the Cowboys are second-rower Kai O’Donnell, who returns to Australia after a stint with English club Leigh, and hooker Karl Lawton makes the trek north from Manly Sea Eagles. Club legend Jason Taumalolo will ease his way back into first grade footy after surgery in December to repair the broken foot he suffered playing for Tonga in the Pacific Championship in November. The draw has thrown an early challenge to the Townsville club, with three of the first five matches away from the Queensland Country Bank Stadium. The Cowboys start with a trip to Sydney to face Manly, then host the impressive Sharks at home in a repeat of last year’s semi-final, before matches against the Broncos (away), Raiders (home) and Panthers (away).
The new era at the Dolphins, following super coach Wayne Bennett’s departure to the Rabbitohs, begins in earnest with a round one home-game spectacular against Bennett’s new team. The draw has immediately thrown together a special match-up, with new Dolphins’ head coach Kristian Woolf to face his mentor Bennett in the first game. Woolf has stepped up to the top job after being an assistant coach under Bennett in 2023 and 2024. He had earlier success at Super League club St Helens, where he won three consecutive championships.
The Dolphins are yet to taste finals footie in the two seasons the Brisbane-based outfit have been in the NRL. Woolf inherits a team that he had much to do with building, featuring a talented backline and tough set of forwards.
There are some good signings to add depth to the squad. Former Knights prop Daniel Saifiti is a quality addition to the front-row stocks and will undoubtedly help the Dolphins move on after the retirements of Kiwi Jesse Bromwich and Jarrod Wallace. Junior Tupou (Tigers), Kulikefu Finefeuiaki (Cowboys), Daniel Saifiti (Knights), Max Feagai (Dragons) are all useful additions to the roster.
Kiwi second-rower Kenny Bromwich, brother of Jesse, gave his new boss Woolf a glowing endorsement after the pre-season training sessions earlier this year.
“Pre-season’s been really, really hard at the moment, the standards have probably picked up a bit I reckon,” Bromwich said. “Training’s been a bit harder. Standards have gone a bit up and I think it should make a difference. “You can’t keep doing the same thing and expect a different result, so I think (we are) trying to get everybody a little bit fitter. That’ll probably be the main goal of this pre-season.”
CLUB PREVIEWS: SEASON 2025 CONTINUED
FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
PENRITH PANTHERS
LAST YEAR: PREMIERS
HEAD COACH: IVAN CLEARY
CO-CAPTAINS: NATHAN CLEARY and ISAAH YEO
HOME GROUNDS: COMMBANK STADIUM, PARRAMATTA; CARRINGTON PARK, BATHURST; GLEN WILLOW OVAL, MUDGEE
WEBSITE: www.penrithpanthers.com.au
TICKETS: premier.ticketek.com.au
CONTACT:
123 Mulgoa Road, Penrith, NSW 2750
POSTAL: Locked Bag 8322, Penrith, NSW 2751
PHONE: +61 2 4720 9100
TAB ODDS: $4.50
The TAB has decided that the Melbourne Storm are favourites to win the 2025 NRL Premiership. However, the reality is that it will take an extraordinary team to stop the Panthers from making it a remarkable five-straight Grand Final wins.
Every season, the Panthers lose key players and yet manage to recruit replacements who seamlessly fit into the team pattern. Much of the credit for this has to go to master coach Ivan Cleary, who continually makes changes to not just his roster but how he prepares his teams to keep everybody motivated.
It may be off-field issues that affect the Panthers as much as any marauding forward pack they encounter. Their home ground in Penrith has become a fortress to overcome for visiting teams but is being completely redeveloped. That means the home games will be staged at three different venues, with most to be played at Parramatta’s CommBank Stadium. It will be a weird feeling for players and fans to play home games at their local rivals’ stadium.
The big loss to the roster in 2025 is arguably the best prop in the game in Kiwis captain James Fisher-Harris who has joined the Warriors. His impact on the field is well documented but the other aspect the Panthers will miss is his leadership and mentoring of younger players. Tigers-bound halfback Jerome Luai will also be missed. On the plus side, the Panthers have nabbed Blaize Talagi from the Eels, to step into Luai’s role, and Isaiah Papali’i from the Tigers to bolster the pack.
Halfback Nathan Cleary continues to be the most valuable player in the Panthers’ line-up. His ability to step up and make the big plays when needed, has played such a crucial part in the run of consecutive Grand Final wins.
ST GEORGEILLAWARRA DRAGONS
LAST YEAR: 11TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: SHANE FLANAGAN
CO-CAPTAINS: CLINT GUTHERSON and DAMIEN COOK
HOME GROUNDS:
JUBILEE STADIUM, SYDNEY; WIN STADIUM, WOLLONGONG; ALLIANZ STADIUM, SYDNEY
WEBSITE: www.dragons.com.au
TICKETS: www.dragons.com.au/ game-day/tickets
CONTACT:
124 Princes Hwy, Kogarah NSW 2217
POSTAL: Locked Bag 1500, Ramsgate NSW 2217
PHONE: +61 2 9587-1966
TAB ODDS: $51.00
“We’re a lot better side than we were last year and hopefully there are some good times ahead.”
So says Dragons’ coach Shane Flanagan, who is talking up his revamped squad for 2025 after he has overseen one of the biggest roster overhauls in the competition. The Dragons have not made the top eight since 2018.
The Dragons have long boasted one of the most fertile junior nurseries in the NRL. There is no shortage of talented young players coming through both the St George and Illawarra pathways. But Flanagan knew he needed experienced heads to take the youngsters under their wing and help them develop into NRL players.
In a controversial move, Flanagan shifted out nine players from last year’s roster, including Zac Lomax, Ben Hunt, Jack Bird and Max Feagai. Into the 2025 squad come highly experienced campaigners in hooker Damien Cook, gun goalkicking centre/wing Valentine Holmes and fullback Clint Gutherson. The leadership group will benefit hugely from their collective knowledge.
“We identified that we were inconsistent last year and had a void in leadership,” says Flanagan. “Part of our recruitment strategy was that we needed people that are consistent and are good leaders. That’s exactly what we went out and did. (They) will play a major part in this group, whether it’s in the captaincy or our leadership structure, they’ll be in there.”
Other new recruits at the other end of the experience scale are promising halfback Lachlan Ilias from the Rabbitohs and Australian sevens star Nathan Lawson. They join other talented young players including outside back Tyrell Sloan, halfback Lyhkan King-Togia, identical twins Ryan and Toby Couchman, plus forwards Loko Pasifiki Tonga, Hamish Stewart and Dylan Egan.
PARRAMATTA EELS
LAST YEAR: 15TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: JASON RYLES
CAPTAIN: MITCHELL MOSES
HOME GROUNDS:
COMMBANK STADIUM, SYDNEY; TIO STADIUM, DARWIN
WEBSITE: www.parraeels.com.au
TICKETS: premier.ticketek.com.au
CONTACT:
2 Eels Place, Parramatta, NSW 2150
POSTAL: PO Box 2666, North Parramatta, NSW 2150
PHONE: +61 2 8843 0300
TAB ODDS: $31.00
The once mighty Eels have been through a long period of underperforming in the NRL that has continually frustrated their large supporter base among the western suburbs of Sydney.
The last Premiership came back in 1986 and since finishing second to the Storm in 2009, the Eels have made the eight on just two occasions. Clearly that is not good enough so the club has recruited Jason Ryles as head coach to turn around the club’s fortunes.
Ryles has an impressive resumé as an assistant coach, mostly at the Storm under Craig Bellamy, but also working with Trent Robinson at the Roosters. His first major job was to change the captaincy to brilliant playmaker Mitchell Moses.
“Mitch has shown strong leadership qualities both on and off the field and I believe he is ready to lead our club into the future,” says Ryles. “With the support of our leadership group, I’m confident he will continue to grow as a leader.”
New players in 2025 include wingers Josh Addo-Carr (Bulldogs) and Zac Lomax (Dragons), and lock Jack Williams (Sharks). But the most exciting recruit is a 21-year-old rookie with just one first-grade game to his name in Isaiah Iongi. The former Panther may well slot straight into the number one jumper at fullback.
Last year, the Eels had an appalling run of injuries that kept out key players such as Moses, Bailey Simonsson, J’maine Hopgood, Wiremu Greig, Kelma Tuilagi, Ryan Matterson and Junior Paulo, for large chunks of the season.
The Eels face a challenging start to their season. They have to face three of the finals teams from last year in their first four games, starting with the Storm who have never lost their opening round clash.
LAST YEAR: 8TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: ADAM O’BRIEN
CO-CAPTAINS: JAYDEN BRAILEY and KALYN PONGA
HOME GROUND: McDONALD JONES
STADIUM, NEWCASTLE
WEBSITE: www.newcastleknights.com.au
TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.com.au
CONTACT:
32 Industrial Drive, Mayfield, NSW 2304
POSTAL: PO Box 152, Wickham, NSW 2293
PHONE: +61 2 4028 9100
TAB ODDS: $51.00
The 2024 campaign could be seen as underwhelming after making the semi-finals the year before. The Knights snuck into the finals in eighth place before being knocked out by the Cowboys on the first weekend of the play-offs.
Coach Adam O’Brien seems to have more pressure on him to keep his job than most coaches in the NRL, but last year’s effort was the fourth finals appearances in the five seasons since he has been in the hot seat.
Perhaps surprisingly, the Knights have not made any significant moves on the player market, other than acquiring quality centre/wing James Schiller from the Raiders. An intriguing signing is former Ma - ori All Black hooker Tyrone Thompson, who joins his identical twin brother in Kiwis international forward Leo. The Knights will miss skilful prop Daniel Saifiti, who has shifted to the Dolphins.
One obvious area that needs tidying up if the Knights are to play finals footie in 2025 is finding the best halves pairing. Remarkably, the Knights used 11 different halves combinations in 25 games last year. Tyson Gamble and Jackson Hastings began the season in the six and seven jerseys before Phoenix Crossland and Jack Cogger took over. O’Brien is seriously considering making a radical change to play elusive running fullback/winger Fletcher Sharpe in the halves this season. Sharpe joined the Knights’ top 30 squad at the start of 2024 and proved a breath of fresh air, scoring 11 tries in 12 games, so a move into the halves would be a major change.
Sharpe was part of one of the competition’s most dangerous attacking back three combinations along with wing Greg Marzhew and Kalyn Ponga, arguably the game’s most elusive running fullback. Ponga was superb in the 16 games he played but injuries impacted on his season.
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SOUTH SYDNEY RABBITOHS CANBERRA RAIDERS
LAST YEAR: 16TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: WAYNE BENNETT
CAPTAIN: CAMERON MURRAY
HOME GROUNDS: ACCOR STADIUM, SYDNEY; OPTUS STADIUM, SYDNEY; INDUSTREE GROUP STADIUM, GOSFORD
The 2024 campaign was a low point for the once-dominant South Sydney Rabbitohs club as the year lurched from one calamity to the next, on and off the field.
Head coach Jason Demetriou left his post halfway through the season and star fullback Latrell Mitchell copped a one-game suspension and $40,000 fine for bringing the game into disrepute after an off-field incident. On the field, the Rabbitohs won just seven games all season to finish second-last in 16th place.
Like a hero from an old western movie, charging into the fray on a white horse, the Rabbitohs have turned to the great coach Wayne Bennett to take over and restore some pride and performance.
It will not be easy, even for the 75-year-old super coach who has won more NRL titles (seven) than any other. Bennett was the Rabbitohs head coach between 2019 and 2021, taking the club to preliminary final appearances in the first two years and the Grand Final in 2021.
He has six new signings to freshen the squad including former Super League star halfback Lewis Dodd, who may well get the early opportunity to impress Bennett in the jersey. Scotland international second-rower Euan Aitken and lock Lachlan Hubner follow Bennett from the Dolphins, with talented five-eighth Jayden Sullivan joining from the Tigers. Hooker Jamie Humphries and second-rower Josh Schuster are new recruits from Manly Sea Eagles.
The Rabbitohs kick-off their campaign with two tricky fixtures on the road against the Dolphins and the Sharks, which could give an early indication of how they will perform in 2025. Three consecutive home games follow, starting with the Panthers.
SYDNEY ROOSTERS
LAST YEAR: 3RD PLACE
HEAD COACH: TRENT ROBINSON
CAPTAIN: JAMES TEDESCO
HOME GROUNDS: ALLIANZ
STADIUM, SYDNEY; INDUSTREE GROUP STADIUM, GOSFORD
WEBSITE: www.roosters.com.au
TICKETS:
www.premier.ticketek.com.au
CONTACT:
Entertainment Quarter, Lang Rd, Moore Park, NSW 2021
POSTAL:
PO Box 693, Paddington, NSW 2021
PHONE: +61 2 8063 3800
TAB ODDS: $19.00
It was a very good campaign for the Roosters in 2024. Trent Robinson’s side finished third and made it through to the preliminary finals where Melbourne Storm were too good, winning 49–18.
The Roosters were a joy to watch as an attacking spectacle, with their positive approach making them easily the highest scoring team in the competition last year.
There has been quite a turnover of players since that match, with Joseph Sua’ali’i and Joseph Manu (rugby union), Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (Hull KR), Luke Keary (Catalans), Sitili Tupouniua (Bulldogs), Terrell May (Tigers) and Michael Jennings (retired) all moving on.
In comes veteran Chad Townsend as a back-up half option to work with Sandon Smith and five-eighth Stan Walker. The Roosters still have a strong squad but with all those players leaving, it may be a stretch to expect another top three finish in 2025.
Rugby convert Mark Nawaqanitawase will be one to watch in the centres as he showed flashes of brilliance during limited opportunities last year.
Roosters captain and star fullback James Tedesco has signed a oneyear contract extension. Tedesco has been at the club for seven years and last season was among his best. He played in 25 of the Roosters games, scoring 17 tries while setting up 24 more, and amassing 4,972 run metres.
Coach Robinson is delighted to have his key player back.
“James is not only a phenomenal player but also a leader who sets the standard for professionalism and performance, and I’m really pleased that his experience will continue to benefit the team around him.”
LAST YEAR: 9TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: RICKY STUART
CAPTAIN: JOSEPH TAPINE
HOME GROUND:
GIO STADIUM, CANBERRA
WEBSITE: www.raiders.com.au
TICKETS: www.premier.ticketek.com.au
CONTACT:
14 Torrens Street, Braddon, ACT 2612
POSTAL:
PO Box 300, Civic Square, ACT 2608
PHONE: +61 2 6253 3515
TAB ODDS: $51.00
The Green Machine has been through some lean times in recent years with another missed top eight last campaign. However, it was a close run thing with the Raiders storming home over the final weeks of the season, claiming wins over the Roosters and Panthers, but missing eighth place on points differential.
Coach Ricky Stuart has a good mix of young talent and experienced campaigners at his disposal. If he can keep the nucleus of this squad together over the next few seasons, then the glory days may return to the GIO Stadium. Certainly, he has the makings of a top-class spine to form his team around. Kaeo Weekes looks to be guaranteed the first shot at the No.1 jersey after impressing at fullback late last year, but he will face competition from teenager Chevy Stewart, while 20-year-old sensation Ethan Strange and Jamal Fogarty are the clear five-eighth and halfback choices.
Hooker remains an issue for the Raiders with no clear-cut candidate to claim the jersey. Tom Starling would seem to have the inside track but he has been at the club for six years and has yet to be the first choice. That leaves the door open for the hugely promising 21-year-old Owen Pattie, who was last year’s Jersey Flegg Player of the Year.
The forward pack has been strengthened by the arrival of English second-rower Matty Nicholson from Warrington, with prop Pasami Saulo expected to be fit for round one. Josh Papalii and Joseph Tapine will again do the hard yards up front, with 498 games for Canberra and 43 tests between them. They are the ideal mentors for 19-year-old prop Myles Martin, who joins the Raiders from the Knights.
The Raiders open the season with a dream trip to Las Vegas to take on the Warriors.
The Sharks have been consistently one of the best teams in the competition since they won the title in 2016 but keep falling at the semi-finals or preliminary finals. Last year, they were beaten by eventual champions Penrith Panthers a week before the Grand Final. Most clubs would love to have had the run of form the Sharks have but an inability to kick on and contest for the title has been eating away at their fans in the shire.
The Sharks got off to a brilliant start last season, winning their opening 10 games before faltering during the State of Origin period. Hopes are high that recruiting one of the world’s best props in Aiden Fonua-Blake from the Warriors could be the key to going all the way in 2025. The 29-year-old’s leadership, ball playing skills and brutal defence will make a massive impact on how the Sharks perform.
“Obviously they didn’t make the big dance, they fell one short, but for them to make it that far is an incredible feat,” says Fonua-Blake.
“But obviously the hunger is still here. I can feel it straight away from day one that the boys want to get back up to that level and really drive the standards and go one step further. Hopefully, I can add into that and help steer the club in the right direction.”
The Sharks have the most settled roster in the NRL, with Fonua-Blake and rookie forward Hohepa Puru (Raiders) the only new faces in the 2025 squad. There are top class players throughout coach Craig Fitzgibbon’s squad. Kayal Iro cemented his place in the centres after a breakout 2024 season and the son of legendary Kiwis centre Kevin Iro looks to have all the attributes to become a world class player.
MELBOURNE STORM
LAST YEAR: PRELIMINARY FINALIST
HEAD COACH: CRAIG BELLAMY
CAPTAIN: HARRY GRANT
HOME GROUND: AAMI PARK, MELBOURNE
WEBSITE:
www.melbournestorm.com.au
TICKETS: www.premier.ticketek.com.au
CONTACT: AAMI Park, 60 Olympic Boulevard, Melbourne, VIC 3001
POSTAL:
PO Box 155, Richmond, VIC 3121
PHONE: +61 3 8412 4900
TAB ODDS: $3.75
Both the Australian and New Zealand TABs have the Storm as favourites to win the Premiership, with the Panthers second favourites. That is the result of a magnificent campaign by the Storm last year.
The minor premiers won 19 of their 24 games to finish four points clear of the Panthers before the two heavyweights of the competition met in the Grand Final. In a battle of wits as much as physical domination, it was the Panthers who prevailed 14-6 in a game that the Storm know they could have won.
Craig Bellamy, who won the Dally M Coach of the Year, begins his 23rd season as head coach. He has been in charge of more than 550 games for the Storm since 2003. The fiery character has made only minor adjustments to his excellent squad, with the signing of Tigers prop Stefano Utoikamanu the main talking point. All Blacks Sevens star Moses Leo has all the physical attributes and speed to do well in the NRL.
Utoikamanu signed a long-term deal and will be expected to lay the platform for the brilliant attacking might of fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen, five-eighth Cameron Munster and halfback Jahrome Hughes to shine. Hughes was magnificent in 2024 and deservedly won the Dally M Medal, but he had to do it on his own for lengthy periods of the season when Papenhuyzen and Munster were injured. If they can all stay healthy and on the field during the finals series, then the Storm can win the Premiership.
The draw has not been kind. The Storm play all of the top four twice, and also have to clash with Manly and North Queensland out of the top eight. Their other three double-ups come against the highly rated Eels, Rabbitohs and Broncos.
GOLD COAST TITANS WESTS TIGERS
LAST YEAR: 14TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: DES HASLER
CAPTAIN: TINO FA’ASUAMALEAUI
HOME GROUND: CBUS SUPER STADIUM, QUEENSLAND
WEBSITE: www.titans.com.au
TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.com.au
CONTACT: 76-122 Napper Road, Parkwood, QLD 4214
POSTAL: PO Box 841, Gold Coast Mail Centre, QLD 9726
PHONE: +61 7 5656 5650
TAB ODDS: $51.00
It all looked so promising for the Titans last season. They started slowly over the first 10 weeks, before becoming one of the form teams of the competition up until round 23, when an unexpected run of five straight losses catapulted the Titans out of the eight and a disappointing 14th place finish.
Highly regarded coach Des Hasler was recruited to turn around the poor performing club and until that late season blip, he had achieved some good results. The Titans had their moments, particularly against their fellow Queensland teams. They defeated the Broncos twice, the Cowboys and Dolphins in the middle stage of the season to become the kings of Queensland Rugby League. But the Achilles heel for the Titans was consistency across the season.
There has not been much off-season movement with the highest profile recruit being experienced prop Reagan Campbell-Gillard from the Eels. There is no doubt the Titans will be a bigger threat with the return of popular captain and lock Tino Fa’asuamaleaui from knee surgery.
The Titans have a wealth of talented backline options available. Fullback Keano Kini showcased his superior attacking skills towards the end of the 2024 campaign in the absence of AJ Brimson, who was injured for large chunks of the season. Jayden Campbell looks likely to start at five-eighth but will be in a battle with Brimson and veteran Kieran Foran for places in the halves.
Titans CEO Steve Mitchell has full confidence Hasler can get the club back into finals footie in 2025.
“We’re at a point in time where we have an apex-level coach who knows how to win,” says Mitchell. “We’ve now had 12 months with Des and the players group know his expectations and knows what his frameworks.”
LAST YEAR: 17TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: BENJI MARSHALL
CO-CAPTAINS: JAROME LUAI, APISAI KOROISAU
HOME GROUNDS:
CAMPBELLTOWN SPORTS STADIUM, SYDNEY; LEICHHARDT OVAL, SYDNEY; SCULLY PARK, TAMWORTH
It was way back in 2011 when the Tigers last played some post-season footy in the play-offs. Since that run to the semi-finals, there has been little for the long-suffering fans to crow about. The last three seasons have all ended with the Tigers winning the wooden spoon. Even the return to the club of Benji Marshall, one of the club’s greatest players, as head coach last year had little on-field impact but he did wonders for the club’s profile. But things look different ahead of the 2025 campaign. The club has gone on an impressive recruitment drive and has the best squad of players in years. The Tigers have brought in halfback Jarome Luai (Panthers), wingers Sunia Turuva (Panthers) and Jeral Skelton (Bulldogs), props Royce Hunt (Sharks) and Terrell May (Roosters), and centre Jack Bird (Dragons) over the off-season.
Given the amount of changes to the team, co-captain Apisai Koroisau says it could take time for new combinations to click but he believes the approach of the players and coaching staff is spot on.
“That’s the thing, everyone will expect it to work out so well straight away from the start,” Koroisau said. “But I think Round 1 to Round 5 anyway are really clunky. Everyone’s getting that rust out, match fitness is trying to come back. So for us it’ll be pretty simple, just working on what we need to do and the fundamentals of the game. It could be anything.”
Koroisau is not taking his own position in the side for granted, with young dummy half Tallyn da Silva pushing him hard in pre-season. Coach Marshall has high hopes for his outstanding 19-year-old five-eighth Lachlan Galvin, who is regarded as one of the brightest talents in the NRL.
MANLY WARRINGAH SEA EAGLES
LAST YEAR: 7TH PLACE
HEAD COACH: ANTHONY SEIBOLD
CAPTAIN: DALY CHERRY-EVANS
HOME GROUND:
4 PINES PARK (BROOKVALE OVAL), BROOKVALE, NSW
WEBSITE: www.seaeagles.com.au
TICKETS: www.ticketmaster.com.au
CONTACT:
Sydney Academy of Sport, Wakehurst Parkway, Narrabeen NSW 2101
POSTAL: PO Box 994, Narrabeen, NSW 2101
PHONE: +61 2 9970 3000
TAB ODDS: $15.00
The rejuvenation of the ManlyWarringah Sea Eagles under head coach Anthony Seibold continued last year with an improvement from 12th place to 7th place. It was the first trip to the finals for the Sea Eagles since 2021 but inconsistency plagued them, as they were unable to string together a run of consecutive wins to claim a desired spot in the top-four.
The Sea Eagles were a joy to watch at times as they clicked on attack and piled on the points through brilliant fullback Tom Trbojevic and centre/wings Reuben Garrick and Tommy Talau. Luke Brooks and captain Daly Cherry-Evans formed a dynamic halves combination capable of turning any game on its head.
Much, as always, will depend on Trbojevic remaining injury-free. The only positive to come from the time he was out last campaign was the performance of 19-year livewire Lehi Hopoate, who quickly became a nuisance for opposing teams.
The Sea Eagles pack has plenty of size and skill in the shape of second-rower Haumole Olakau’atu, props Taniela Paseka and Josh Aloiai, and lock Nathan Brown. The arrival of former Warrior Jazz Tevaga and Siua Taukei’aho, from the Catalans in France, gives the Sea Eagles more depth and experience.
Coach Seibold says winning the Premiership is the goal.
“That is the mission. All our planning is around how to complete that mission. We made some giant strides last season. Out of all the other seven teams in the top eight, we beat six of those seven, which was equal to anybody in the competition.
“So what we’ve shown is that we can beat any team in the competition on our day, but for us to go to the next level it’s about reliability and repeatability.”
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