The opening round of the 2026 NRL Telstra Premiership is shaping up as a compelling mix of returning stars and fresh faces, with several key players confirmed to feature after overcoming injury concerns. As teams finalize preparations, the late mail reveals a handful of changes that could impact matchups across the weekend. From the anticipated return of Sharks winger Sione Katoa to the debut of several promising rookies, Round 1 promises a thrilling start to the season. This NRL late mail provides the latest updates on team selections, injuries, and potential game-day surprises.
Among the most notable confirmations, Jake Trbojevic is set to take the field for Manly in their Saturday night clash against the Raiders, marking his first appearance after a lengthy layoff. The return of experienced players like Trbojevic adds significant firepower to their respective teams, while the emergence of new talent, such as Siale Faeamani for the Titans, injects excitement into the competition. The focus now shifts to ensuring these players are fully integrated into their teams’ strategies as they prepare for the challenges ahead.
Warriors and Roosters Set for Friday Night Battle
The Warriors and Roosters will kick off Round 1 on Friday evening at Go Media Stadium, with both sides navigating late injury concerns. For the Warriors, Marata Niukore has been ruled out due to a calf injury sustained during pre-season training. However, there’s positive news regarding Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Chanel Harris-Tavita, who are both on track to play despite recent hamstring and calf issues, respectively. Alofiana Khan-Pereira is also pushing for a spot in the 19-man squad after recovering from a concussion, while Englishman Morgan Gannon is in contention for his NRL debut. Luke Hanson and Eddie Ieremia-Toeava have been omitted from the final lineup.
The Roosters, meanwhile, have been dealt a blow with the omission of Maroons and Tonga representative Rob Toia, delaying his return from a foot injury. Junior Pauga will fill the void in the centres, and Toby Rodwell has been added to the bench. Former Dragon Cody Ramsey is a chance to create his first NRL appearance since Round 25, 2022, and is named on the six-man bench alongside Connor Watson. Benaiah Ioelu will start at hooker in place of the injured Reece Robson (thumb). A significant change sees Daly Cherry-Evans starting at five-eighth in his first game as a Rooster, with Sam Walker taking the halfback position.
Panthers and Broncos Clash at Suncorp Stadium
Friday’s second match features a rematch of last year’s preliminary final between the Broncos and Panthers at Suncorp Stadium. The Broncos will see Ben Hunt arrive off the bench as an impact player, with Cory Paix starting at hooker. Premiership-winning halves Adam Reynolds and Ezra Mam will once again form the spine of the attack, supported by Reece Walsh at fullback. Brendan Piakura will miss the clash due to an ongoing recovery from off-season knee surgery, with Jack Gosiewski and Jordan Riki starting in the backrow. Jesse Arthars and Thomas Duffy were cut from the squad on Thursday.
The Panthers will be without representative star Liam Martin, who has succumbed to a calf injury suffered during pre-season. Luke Garner will take his place in the starting side. Star halfback Nathan Cleary is available after successfully defending a high-tackle charge at the judiciary. Luron Patea and John Fonua have been dropped from the squad, with Tom Jenkins replacing Patea on the bench.
Sharks Welcome Titans to Ocean Protect Stadium
Saturday’s action begins with the Sharks hosting the Titans at Ocean Protect Stadium. Sione Katoa is expected to start on the wing, having overcome a groin injury sustained in the Pre-Season Challenge. However, edge forward Teig Wilton will miss the game as he continues his recovery from off-season shoulder surgery. Sam Stonestreet will fill the other wing position in place of Ronaldo Mulitalo, who is recovering from an ACL injury.
The Titans will see Lachlan Ilias make his club debut after halfback Jayden Campbell was ruled out with a hamstring injury. Ilias will partner AJ Brimson in the halves, while Auckland-born rookie Siale Faeamani will make his NRL debut on the wing. Max Feagai is also set for a maiden Titans appearance, and Cooper Bai is listed on the six-man bench.
Sea Eagles and Raiders Face Off at 4 Pines Park
At 4 Pines Park on Saturday night, the Sea Eagles will welcome the Raiders, with several key players returning from long-term injuries. Taniela Paseka (Achilles), Haumole Olakau’atu (shoulder), and Jake Trbojevic (concussion) are all set to feature after extended periods on the sidelines. Former Raider Jamal Fogarty will partner Luke Brooks in a new-look halves combination following Daly Cherry-Evans’ departure.
For the Raiders, Ethan Sanders will take the reins at halfback, stepping into the role previously held by Fogarty. He will link up with Ethan Strange in the halves. Matty Nicholson (shoulder), Matthew Timoko (foot), and Owen Pattie have been named in the extended squad but will play in reserve grade this weekend. This clears the way for Jayden Brailey to make his Raiders debut off the bench.
Dolphins and Rabbitohs Clash at Suncorp Stadium
The final game of Round 1 sees the Dolphins hosting the Rabbitohs at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday. Tom Flegler is on track to play his first NRL game since Round 5, 2024, after recovering from a long-term shoulder injury. Tom Gilbert is also back on deck after rupturing his pectoral in Round 11 last year. However, prop Daniel Saifiti’s return from a shoulder injury has been delayed, potentially opening the door for Brent Woolf to make his NRL debut.
The Rabbitohs will see Bronson Garlick start at hooker after passing HIA protocols following a head knock in the pre-season. Garlick replaces Brandon Smith, who succumbed to a calf injury at training. Ashton Ward is set to start at halfback, while Jayden Sullivan remains in contention to play after battling a broken leg and infection in the off-season and is listed on the bench.
As Round 1 unfolds, these team updates and injury reports will be crucial for fans and fantasy players alike. The return of experienced players and the emergence of new talent promise a captivating start to the 2026 NRL season. Preserve an eye on official team announcements and injury updates as the weekend progresses for the most accurate information.
For the latest scores, highlights, and comprehensive coverage of the 2026 NRL season, visit the official NRL website.
Disclaimer: This article provides information based on the latest available reports as of March 5, 2026. Team selections and injury statuses are subject to change.
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