In exciting news for the Brisbane Broncos, Payne Haas is set to make his return following a period on the sidelines due to injury. Meanwhile, 19-year-old Antonio Verhoeven, who recently secured a three-year deal, is on track for his debut after impressing with four tries in just three Queensland Cup matches this season. Speculation of a trade involving Verhoeven and Mitch Barnett from the Warriors has been quashed by the Broncos, who swiftly included him on the extended bench shortly after his contract announcement.
Additionally, Bronson Xerri is also likely to return for the Bulldogs, having been named on their extended bench in anticipation of their match against the Rabbitohs. Xerri has been struggling to reclaim his spot since being dropped after the first round.
As round five approaches, here’s a glance at the key matches scheduled for the weekend:
Thursday Match:
- Dolphins vs Manly Sea Eagles (8 pm)
Friday Matches:
- South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Canterbury Bulldogs (4:05 pm)
- Penrith Panthers vs Melbourne Storm (8 pm)
Saturday Matches:
- St George Illawarra Dragons vs North Queensland Cowboys (5:30 pm)
- Gold Coast Titans vs Brisbane Broncos (7:35 pm)
Sunday Matches:
- Cronulla Sharks vs New Zealand Warriors (2 pm)
- Newcastle Knights vs Canberra Raiders (4:05 pm)
Monday Match:
- Parramatta Eels vs Wests Tigers (4:05 pm)
With such an array of anticipated fixtures, rugby league fans will be kept on the edge of their seats as the season continues to unfold.