Magic Round has wrapped up once again, leaving coaches from various teams seeking solutions amid disappointing performances and player injuries. Canterbury faces ongoing suspension issues, as an in-form player will be sidelined for several weeks following a crusher tackle against the Titans. The Rabbitohs’ situation has worsened with a crucial player from the spine sustaining an injury.
Shane Flanagan’s strategy alterations for the Dragons did not yield positive results, leading to the anticipation of a teenage talent making his NRL debut.
Looking ahead to Round 10, here’s a brief overview of the upcoming matches:
Thursday – Parramatta Eels vs Dolphins at CommBank Stadium (7.50pm):
- Eels Team News: Expectations are low for significant changes following their Magic Round defeat.
- Dolphins Team News: Injuries may see the return of Kurt Donoghoe, Felise Kaufusi, and Daniel Saifiti, although Max Plath will be unavailable for a couple of weeks post-surgery.
Friday – Newcastle Knights vs Gold Coast Titans at McDonald Jones Stadium (6pm):
- Knights: No changes anticipated after a winning weekend.
- Titans: Kieran Foran is poised to return, likely replacing Tom Weaver. Jojo Fifita’s return from injury is also awaited.
Friday – South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Brisbane Broncos at Accor Stadium (8pm):
- Rabbitohs: Expected line-up might see Jamie Humphreys return alongside Jye Gray, with Latrell Mitchell back from suspension.
- Broncos: Coach Michael Maguire faces a selection dilemma with Ezra Mam back after suspension.
Saturday – Canberra Raiders vs Canterbury Bulldogs at GIO Stadium (3pm):
- Raiders: Anticipating no changes following a dramatic win.
- Bulldogs: Matt Burton returns, while Jacob Preston faces a potential three-week suspension.
Saturday – St George Illawarra Dragons vs New Zealand Warriors at WIN Stadium (5.30pm):
- Dragons: Emre Guler’s absence opens the door for Loko Pasifiki Tonga’s potential debut.
- Warriors: Injury concerns surround Rocco Berry and Ali Leiataua, with Dallin Watene-Zelezniak making a possible comeback.
Saturday – North Queensland Cowboys vs Penrith Panthers at QCB Stadium (7.35pm):
- Cowboys: No changes expected after a loss.
- Panthers: Looking to welcome back Mitch Kenny while Brian To’o’s injury status remains uncertain.
Sunday – Melbourne Storm vs Wests Tigers at AAMI Park (2pm):
- Storm: Harry Grant may return from injury, replacing Bronson Garlick.
- Tigers: Brent Naden’s knee injury could see Solomona Faatape stepping in.
Sunday – Manly Sea Eagles vs Cronulla Sharks at Brookvale Oval (4.05pm):
- Sea Eagles: Jake Trbojevic is expected to return following a concussion.
- Sharks: Siosifa Talakai’s concussion could sideline him, with Daniel Atkinson likely rejoining the squad.
As Round 10 unfolds, clubs will be eager to address injuries and team dynamics to improve their standings in the competition.