Knights v Raiders

This season opener presents an intriguing battle, with both teams facing significant changes and challenges. The Knights, having bid farewell to 10 players, including Dom Young (Roosters) and Lachlan Fitzgibbon (Warrington), have bolstered their squad significantly. Tom Jenkins, arriving from Penrith, is set to replace Young. The spine sees the return of Jayden Brailey from injury, relegating Phoenix Crossland to a utility role. In the backrow, Jed Cartwright is likely to start the season following Fitzgibbon's departure. However, the spotlight will also be on young talent Dylan Lucas and English recruit Kai Pearce-Paul, despite the latter's injury-riddled pre-season. New recruits Will Pryce and Jack Cogger are also contenders for starting positions in the opening round. The Raiders enter the season under the shadow of substantial departures. With over 550 games of NRL experience lost, Jarrod Croker's retirement and Jack Wighton's move to the Rabbitohs, mark the end of an era. Despite these losses, the Raiders have made a notable addition with English forward Morgan Smithies from Wigan Warriors, expected to play a key role, particularly in the absence of Corey Horsburgh (returning in Round 3) and Sebastian Kris (Round 2). Their backline sees potential shifts, with Xavier Savage poised for an NRL comeback and Chevy Stewart eyeing a debut. Additionally, new signing Kaeo Weekes and Ethan Strange offer versatility, and former Knight Simi Sasagi could find himself in the halves despite training for a second-row position.