The upcoming week in the NRL is pivotal, with significant team selections as clubs strive to strengthen their line-ups. Manly is expected to adjust their roster to revive their season, while the Dragons have relegated several key players to the NSW Cup during their bye. Canterbury’s Lachlan Galvin’s position remains contentious, and Nathan Cleary’s persistent groin injury may complicate selections at Penrith.
Thursday’s Match: Penrith Panthers vs. Canterbury Bulldogs (7.50 pm, CommBank Stadium)
Penrith must address Cleary’s injury concerns, especially with other representative players returning. The predicted line-up includes Cleary despite uncertainty about his fitness. Meanwhile, Canterbury may include returning Origin players like Max King and Stephen Crichton, focusing on how Galvin fits in going forward.
Friday’s Matches:
Manly Sea Eagles vs. Wests Tigers (6.00 pm, Brookvale Oval)
Manly is likely to shift Tom Trbojevic to centre, a move aimed at bolstering their attack. Young Lehi Hopoate is tipped to start at fullback, while Olakau’atu’s absence due to an injury will be felt. On the other side, Wests Tigers might stay unchanged following their recent loss, focusing on improving their performance.
Newcastle Knights vs. Canberra Raiders (8.00 pm, McDonald Jones Stadium)
Newcastle aims to build momentum from their recent victory, though they must cope without Fletcher Sharpe due to injury with Jackson Hastings likely to return to the halves. Canberra is not expected to make changes after their last win, keeping focus on their current squad’s form.
Saturday’s Matches:
Brisbane Broncos vs. New Zealand Warriors (3.00 pm, Suncorp Stadium)
Brisbane looks to integrate Ben Hunt back into the squad as they seek a continual recovery from their previous match. For the Warriors, adapting without Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Marata Niukore due to injuries will be crucial as they consider lineup adjustments.
St George Illawarra Dragons vs. Parramatta Eels (5.30 pm, WIN Stadium)
The Dragons could see the return of Valentine Holmes after his Origin duties, with Luciano Leilua aiming to make an impact following reserve-grade appearances. Parramatta will welcome back Dylan Brown from suspension, necessitating shifts in the backline.
Dolphins vs. South Sydney Rabbitohs (7.50 pm, Suncorp Stadium)
Dolphins are facing injury setbacks, particularly with Jack Bostock out for the season, while the Rabbitohs anticipate a return for Cody Walker, adjusting their strategy to regain form.
Sunday’s Matches:
Melbourne Storm vs. Cronulla Sharks (2.00 pm, AAMI Park)
Xavier Coates’ return is significant for the Storm, while the Sharks aim to maintain consistency despite recent challenges.
Gold Coast Titans vs. North Queensland Cowboys (4.05 pm, Cbus Super Stadium)
The Titans deal with potential changes due to injuries to Jayden Campbell and others, while the Cowboys expect key players to return after rest.
As round 17 approaches, all clubs are focusing not only on line-up strategies but also on addressing injuries and performance-related issues, making this week crucial for shaping the remainder of the season.