Get ready for an explosive start to the 2026 NRL pre-season! The excitement is building as teams gear up for their first trials, and we've got all the inside scoop for you. The battle for dominance begins!
Our first glimpse into the season's lineup reveals some intriguing moves. The Knights, Dragons, Bulldogs, and Cowboys are all set to take the field in Las Vegas, and their team selections have got everyone talking.
Let's dive into the details and uncover the stories behind these choices.
Round 1: Bulldogs vs. Cowboys
The Bulldogs have opted for a youthful approach, resting their NRL stars and giving the younger players a chance to shine. With only seven players having first-grade experience, this squad is an exciting mix of potential and raw talent. Keep an eye out for Raymond Puru, the Under-19s Queensland fullback, and Aaymon Fitzgibbon, whose father, Craig Fitzgibbon, has a strong connection to the club.
However, here's where it gets controversial: the absence of rookie halfback Mitchell Woods due to injury. Will this impact the Bulldogs' strategy? Only time will tell.
On the other side, the Cowboys have blended NRL veterans with up-and-coming stars. Jaxon Purdue and Jake Clifford will lead the attack, and we're thrilled to see 2024 Australian Schoolboys fullback Mason Barber back in action after an injury-plagued season. Heilum Luki's return is also a welcome sight.
Dragons vs. Knights: A Battle of the Recruits
The Dragons are aiming to turn their fortunes around in 2026, and their squad selection reflects this ambition. But the surprising absence of recruit Daniel Atkinson has left many scratching their heads. Instead, Lyhkan King-Togia and Kade Reed will partner up in the halves.
Tyrell Sloan returns to his fullback position, but his future with the club remains uncertain. Haele Finau steps in at hooker due to an injury to Jacob Liddle. Recruits David Fale, Setu Tu, and Joseph O'Neill are all set to make their mark.
The Knights, meanwhile, will be without their international stars, including the highly anticipated Dylan Brown. This opens up an opportunity for Fletcher Sharpe and Sandon Smith to showcase their skills in the halves. Tyson Gamble is also named, adding to the intrigue.
And this is the part most people miss: the Knights have some exceptional junior talents on their roster. Sosaia Latu, Wilson De Courcey, Logan Aoake, and Matthew Hunter are all names to remember. Will they make an impact in this trial?
As we gear up for these thrilling trials, remember to set your deposit limits and seek support if needed. The pre-season series and All-Star matches are live and ad-break-free on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports. Don't miss out!
Stay tuned for more insights and analysis as the 2026 NRL pre-season unfolds. Who will emerge as the season's stars? Only time will tell. And remember, the beauty of sports is that opinions vary. So, what's your take on these team selections? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!
