Knights Eye New-Look Spine with Smith-Brown Halves partnership for 2026 Campaign
The Newcastle Knights are aggressively reshaping their team structure ahead of the 2026 season, with recent training sessions indicating a meaningful shift in the spine – the core playmaking positions of the team. A new halves pairing of recent recruits Sandon Smith and Dylan Brown is being heavily trialed, signaling a bold strategic move by the club.
The potential for this combination was anticipated by fans following Smith’s signing,and now appears to be taking concrete form on the training paddock.Sources close to the team, speaking to Zero Tackle and Newcastle Knights Juniors, confirm the Knights are seriously evaluating this new direction.
According to those within the association,Smith was informed upon his arrival that he would be considered for a role in the halves,alongside the possibility of playing at hooker. This versatility allows the coaching staff to adapt their strategy based on evolving team needs.
Currently, training drills feature Dylan Brown operating on the left side of the attack, while Phoenix Crossland has been consistently positioned at dummy-half. This arrangement underscores the Knights’ commitment to exploring a new spine balance and maximizing their offensive potential. “They’ve been training [with this combination] a lot recently,” a source revealed, highlighting the dedication to this new system.
Beyond the halves and hooker positions, the Knights are also assessing options in the backline. Fletcher Sharpe is projected to start the season on the left wing, but possesses the versatility to cover five-eighth and even fullback when needed. This adaptability is particularly crucial given that captain Kalyn Ponga is not yet cleared for full-contact training. The club is proactively addressing potential contingencies as the pre-season progresses.
if this new configuration solidifies, the Knights’ left edge – featuring Sharpe, Bradman Best, Dylan Lucas, and Brown – has the potential to become a formidable force in the competition. Analysts predict this quartet could form an “absolutely lethal combination,” capable of consistently breaking down opposing defenses.
While upcoming trials will ultimately determine the final team composition, the evidence suggests this is more than a fleeting experiment. The Knights appear to be seriously considering this new spine as they prepare for the challenges of the 2026 season and beyond.
Why is this happening? The newcastle Knights are proactively reshaping their team structure to enhance offensive capabilities and address potential player availability issues, particularly with captain Kalyn Ponga’s recovery.
Who is involved? Key players in this shift include new recruits Sandon Smith and Dylan Brown, who are being trialed as a halves pairing. Phoenix Crossland is consistently at hooker, and Fletcher Sharpe offers versatility in the backline. Bradman Best and Dylan Lucas are also central to the potential strength of the left edge.
What is the change? The knights are experimenting with a new spine combination, specifically a halves partnership of sandon Smith and Dylan Brown, alongside phoenix crossland at hooker. They are also leveraging player versatility, like Fletcher Sharpe’s ability to cover multiple positions.
How did it end? As of this report, the changes are still in the trial phase. The final team composition will be resolute by performance in upcoming trials. The Knights are committed to evaluating this new spine throughout the pre-season, with the goal of solidifying a formidable lineup for the 2026 season and beyond.There is no definitive “end” yet, but rather a process of assessment and refinement.
