The second State of Origin game is looming, resulting in significant disruptions for club rugby with several star players sidelined this weekend. The Dragons will see another debutant as coach Shane Flanagan continues to adapt to changing circumstances. Meanwhile, the Roosters welcome back Sam Walker, offering some optimism amid other roster reshuffles.
In significant developments, the Dolphins face a considerable hurdle as form struggles hit. The Sharks, battling for form, lose key attacker Ronaldo Mulitalo due to suspension. However, Manly’s fortunes improve with Tom Trbojevic returning to the fullback position, crucial for their upcoming matches.
As Round 15 unfolds, here’s the latest team news:
Thursday: Cronulla Sharks vs St George Illawarra Dragons
In the Sharks’ line-up, Ronaldo Mulitalo is back after serving a ban, although KL Iro is out with a pectoral injury. Mawene Hiroti will shift from wing to centre. For the Dragons, Christian Tuipulotu (hamstring) is again absent, allowing Tyrell Sloan to return. Corey Allan has been named to fill in for Valentine Holmes, while Nick Tsougranis is set to make a potential debut.
Friday: Gold Coast Titans vs Manly Sea Eagles
The Titans will miss Moeaki Fotuaika and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, who are both on Origin duty. As for the Sea Eagles, Daly Cherry-Evans will return after being omitted from the Queensland squad, while Lehi Hopoate is ruled out with a concussion, making way for Trbojevic.
Saturday: Newcastle Knights vs Sydney Roosters
The Knights will be without Kalyn Ponga due to State of Origin, which means Fletcher Sharpe takes over at fullback. For the Roosters, they receive a boost as Sam Walker returns alongside other players after injury, including Nat Butcher. Key players Angus Crichton and others are unavailable due to Origin.
In the match between North Queensland Cowboys and Dolphins, the Cowboys will miss several players on Origin duty. The Dolphins will also face challenges with missing key players, including Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, while Jake Averillo steps into fullback.
Sunday: South Sydney Rabbitohs vs Canterbury Bulldogs
The Rabbitohs will be without Latrell Mitchell due to Origin, putting Jye Gray in at fullback instead. Cody Walker also remains out with an injury. The Bulldogs, too, have significant absences, with Max King and others unavailable, but Jacob Preston returns from suspension to reinforce their forward pack.
With these shifts, Round 15 promises to be influenced heavily by the absence of Origin players, creating challenges and opportunities across the teams.