The NRL gets underway on Thursday and we’ve made your tips and your fantasy team selection easy with our comprehensive team by team guide.
See details of every side’s chances and the players that are crucial to their chances below. Odds are taken from Sportsbet Australia.
Brisbane Broncos
Ins: Adam Blair (Tigers), Darius Boyd (Knights), Anthony Milford (Raiders), Travis Waddell (Knights), Mitch Garbutt (Storm), Greg Eden (Hull KR), James Gavet (Tigers), Matt Parcell
Outs: Ben Barba (Sharks), Josh Hoffman (Titans), Ben Hannant (Cowboys), Martin Kennedy (Roosters), Jake Granville (Cowboys), David Hala (Titans)
The player to watch: Anthony Milford’s transition to Brisbane, and into the number 6 jersey, will make for interesting when the 2015 season kicks off. The nimble runner is expected to do what Ben Barba couldn’t do in the jersey and spark the Bronco’s attacking game week after week.
The youngster to watch: Kodi Nikorima is a name well known to followers of the NRL Nines. The youngster has made a name for himself in the reduced format thanks to his fleet footwork and clever rugby league mind. He’ll grab a utility spot on Brisbane’s interchange for their opener and should make waves all year.
The odds: $11.00
Last Year: Eighth (elimination finalist)
This Year: Uncle Wayne and his fragile frame should ensure the Broncos make the top 8 again this year. He’s recruited well (including his favourites), and he knows the NRL game better than most, we’re thinking 6th on the back of an awesome Suncorp Friday night record.
Canterbury Bulldogs
Ins: Brett Morris (Dragons), Michael Lichaa (Sharks), Curtis Rona (Cowboys), Antonio Kaufusi (Huddersfield)
Outs: Reni Maitua (Featherstone), Michael Ennis (Sharks), Dale Finucane (Storm), Mitch Brown (Sharks), Krisnan Inu (Stade Francais), Lachlan Burr (Titans), John Sila (Tigers)
The player to watch: Josh Jackson was the most improved player in the competition last year (in our view). He’s gone from solid ball running forward with little responsibility, to creative spark on the right hand edge where all of the Bulldogs plays run (after James Graham takes on the line). His test experience will be crucial in helping the talented but enigmatic Bulldogs pack flourish in 2015.
The youngster to watch: Former Sharks man Michael Lichaa looks set to step straight into Michael Ennis boots as replacement hooker, despite Moses Mbye being used in the grand final. The Junior Kangaroos reps has always been tipped for big things and this could be his year to shine.
The odds: $7.50
Last Year: Seventh (finalist)
This Year: The beaten finalists have lost one inspirational captain but gained another. Tough as nails English import James Graham replaces Mick Ennis for 2015 in the role in a move that will only strengthen the Doggies (and improve their gamesmanship…slightly). We think they’ll finish 4-8 this year.
Canberra Raiders
Ins: Blake Austin (Tigers), Sisa Waqa (Storm), Frank-Paul Nu’uausala (Roosters), Iosia Soliola (St Helens), Josh Hodgson (Hull KR), Sam Williams (Catalans), Rhys Kennedy (Storm)
Outs: Terry Campese (Hull KR) Anthony Milford (Broncos), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Storm), Reece Robinson (Eels), Sami Sauiluma (Sharks), Matt Allwood (Warriors), Matt McIlwrick (Roosters), Sam Mataora (Knights), Lagi Setu (Roosters)
The player to watch: Paul Vaughan, the high running, interchange specialist with a knack for the try line will go very close to origin this year. Relatively unknown heading in to 2014, the 23-year-old Italian representative burst on to the scene with a series of quality performances off the bench, quickly making him a favourite of Dream Team coaches. With Papalii and Fensom susceptible to injury, Vaughan is crucial to the green machine’s chances.
The youngster to watch: At just 22, it feels as though we’ve seen plenty of Edrick Lee already. However, that’s probably because his highlight packages are so memorable and not an indicator of his age or longevity. Lee spent most of last season on the sideline, but the cousin of NBA superstar Patty Mills, is now fitter than ever and in the best position to use his height and speed to his advantage.
The odds: $81.00
Last Year: 15th
This Year: Anthony Milford gone, Terry Campese gone. Ricky Stuart still there but making no real impact at the club. Equals another year of despair for the Raiders. They’ll do well to finish higher than last year (which was second to last).
Cronulla Sharks
Ins: Ben Barba (Broncos), Michael Ennis (Bulldogs), Jayson Bukuya (Warriors), Mitch Brown (Bulldogs), Sami Sauiluma (Raiders), Jack Bird (Dragons), Gerard Beale (Dragons), Kyle Stanley (Dragons), Saulala Houma (Roosters)
Outs: Todd Carney (Catalans), Michael Lichaa (Bulldogs), Siosaia Vave (Sea Eagles), Jonathan Wright (Warriors), Tupou Sopoaga (Panthers), Sione Masima (Rabbitohs), John Morris (retired)
The player to watch: Putting contract negotiations, injuries and drug scandals to the side might allow Andrew Fifita to play the damaging football he’s capable of week in week out. The enforcer who played 6o minutes against the Warriors last season with a broken arm is one of the toughest forwards in the game, and where expecting big things from him this NRL season.
The youngster to watch: Valentine Holmes has already proven his ability in first grade with a couple of standout performances on the wing last season. This year he will also get the opportunity to share the fullback spot with Michael Gordon; a position we think he’ll be fantastic in.
The odds: $19.00
Last Year: 16th
This Year: Much better prospects this year after a rough couple of seasons. The addition of Ennis will add much needed leadership during periods of origin and inevitable injury to Gallen / Fifita and could help them to a finish around 7-10.
Gold Coast Titans
Ins: Kierran Moseley (Panthers), Josh Hoffman (Broncos), David Hala (Broncos), Eddy Pettybourne (Wigan), Matt Robinson (Panthers), Ryan Simpkins (Panthers), Lachlan Burr (Bulldogs)
Outs: Brad Takairangi (Eels), Mark Minichiello (Hull), Cody Nelson (Eels), Sam Irwin (Featherstone), Steve Michaels (Hull), Albert Kelly (Hull KR), Maurice Blair (Hull KR), Beau Henry (Dragons), Ashley Harrison (retired)
The player to watch: The candidates for featuring this section have diminished over the past weeks as the NRL traces lines of inquiry in a cocaine scandal (see the pun). Therefore, we’ll predict a big season for Josh Hoffman. On the great hope of New Zealand rugby league, but competition for places in Brisbane seemed to have curtailed his growth. Looked sharp at the Nines, and could be on his way back up.
The youngster to watch: Kierran Moseley’s a nice addition to the Titan’s side and will provide stiff competition for Matt Srama in the hooking berth. Having experienced the big stage of the 2013 NYC Grand Final, Moseley will be right at home with all the media attention on his club.
The odds: $101.00
Last Year: 14th
This Year: Will finish last. May even go bust.
Manly Sea Eagles
Ins: Willie Mason (Knights), Feleti Mateo (Warriors), Siosaia Vave (Sharks), Brayden Wiliame (Knights), Blake Leary (Cowboys), Jason King (retired)
Outs: Anthony Watmough (Eels), Glenn Stewart (Rabbitohs), Daniel Harrison (London)
The player to watch: Daly Cherry Evans and Kieran Foran create a dynamic halves duo – probably the best in the competition – but from next year they’re likely to experience what it is like without the other. While Foran’s future is sorted, Cherry-Evans will have to balance contract negotiations with his footy while also managing the club’s and the stakeholder’s expectations. He’s our player to watch because we think he can.
The youngster to watch: Clinton Gutherson’s speed is much better than his haircut. The young flyer has shown real potential in the Nines format and with injuries to Jorge Taufua will get the opportunity to nail down a starting wing spot for some time.
The odds: $13.00
Last Year: Second (semifinalist)
This Year: Not enough support around Foran and DCE to warrant too much attention and in the midst of an early season injury crisis. Will just scrape into the top eight.
Melbourne Storm
Ins: Dale Finucane (Bulldogs), Tom Learoyd-Lahrs (Raiders), Blake Green (Wigan)
Outs: Justin O’Neill (Cowboys), George Rose (Dragons), Ryan Hoffman (Warriors), Sisa Waqa (Raiders), Siosaia Vave (Sea Eagles), Ben Roberts (Castleford), Mitch Garbutt (Broncos), Junior Moors (Castleford), Cody Walker (Rabbitohs)
The player to watch: Something fairly uncommon happened at the end of last year. Jesse Bromwich not only turned himself into the best prop in his team, he became the best prop in the NRL with a startling display in the business end of the NRL season and in the international Four Nations competition. Bromwich has the feet, hands and size to better most and will play a crucial supporting role to the Storm’s ageing big three.
The youngster to watch: Jordan McLean didn’t get the chance to kick on last year after playing a role in the unfortunate Alex McKinnon tackle. Hopefully, this year the kid can deliver on his tremendous promise without the added scrutiny.
The odds: $13.00
Last Year: Sixth (elimination finalist)
This Year: Some punters will have you believe the Storm will miss the eight this year, and it is a possibility given they still haven’t found a way to cope during the origin period. They have recruited nicely but still probably miss someone in the 6 jumper that will deliver them a trophy. 6th – 8th again this year.
Newcastle Knights
Ins: Jack Stockwell (Dragons), Tariq Sims (Cowboys), Carlos Tuimavave (Warriors), Sam Mataora (Raiders)
Outs: Darius Boyd (Broncos), Willie Mason (Sea Eagles), Adam Cuthbertson (Leeds), Travis Waddell (Broncos), Michael Dobson (Salford), Josh Mantellato (Hull KR), Zane Tetevano (Sea Eagles), Brayden Wiliame (Sea Eagles), Timana Tahu (retired)
The player to watch: Joseph Leilua has apparently slacked off over the summer and might not even feature in the opening round against the Storm. That’s a shame because in last year’s Four Nations he was impossible to stop, and one of the stars of the tournament. He’s still our player to watch because, the Knight’s lack others, and he’ll get on the park at some stage.
The youngster to watch: Sione Mata’utia is officially the youngest player to have ever played a test match for Australia. He broke Israel Folau’s record when he debuted against England last year, and is destined to break even more records in 2015 – perhaps an NRL try-scoring record. Keep an eye out.
The odds: $31.00
Last Year: 12th
This Year: We expect them to finish around 11th. Rick Stone has his work cut out this year.
New Zealand Warriors
Ins: Ryan Hoffman (Storm), Matt Allwood (Raiders), Bodene Thompson (Tigers), Jonathan Wright (Sharks), Api Pewhairangi (Eels)
Outs: Feleti Mateo (Sea Eagles), Carlos Tuimavave (Knights), Jayson Bukuya (Sharks), Abraham Papalii (Roosters), Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard (Dragons), Dane Nielsen (Dragons), Sam Lousi (Waratahs)
The player to watch: The Mt Smart faithful will be hoping there’s plenty of running in Ryan Hoffman’s legs after the Warriors were the only club to offer the Melbourne veteran a three year deal. The Warriors have a history of recruiting senior Australian players who do big things for them and this could be another example. Will add seniority and defensive surety to an already promising squad.
The youngster to watch: His man bun might not be as impressive as some of the others that are set to take the NRL by storm this year, but his game is. Solomone Kata was a revelation at the NRL Nines, and after injuries to Glen Fisiiahi and David Fusitu’a, Kata will make his debut on the wing, and get to show off his ridiculous wheels (and man bun).
The odds: $17.00
Last Year: Ninth
This Year: Will be surprised if they don’t finish in the top 8. Possibly around 6th or 7th. Sam Tomkins will be better in his second year and Hoffman’s addition will help ease the leadership tension on Simon Mannering.
North Queensland Cowboys
Ins: Ben Hannant (Broncos), Jake Granville (Broncos), Kelepi Tanginoa (Eels), Ben Spina (Pride), Justin O’Neill (Storm)
Outs: Tariq Sims (Knights), Ashton Sims (Warrington), Curtis Rona (Bulldogs), Brent Tate (retired)
The player to watch: Jason Taumalolo turned his back on a huge Warriors payday last week to stick with the Cowboys for a further three years. His loyalty is another fantastic trait to go with his size, feet, and offloading abilities that make him so dynamic in the NRL. He’ll flourish this year in his preferred middle of the park role.
The youngster to watch: Michael Morgan’s move to partner Jonathan Thurston in the halves has been met with widespread approval from NRL experts. After a breakout year in 2014, Morgan’s star looks set to rise again with more time on the ball.
The odds: $9.00
Last Year: Fifth (semifinalist)
This Year: This could be the year that the Cowboys go all the way – depending on the refereeing standard in the playoffs of course. Will finish in the top 3.
Parramatta Eels
Ins: Anthony Watmough (Sea Eagles), Brad Takairangi (Titans), Reece Robinson (Raiders), Beau Champion (Rabbitohs), Cody Nelson (Titans), Ben Crooks (Hull)
Outs: Jarryd Hayne (NFL), Api Pewhairangi (Warriors), Willie Tonga (Catalans), Mitchell Allgood (Hull KR), Kelepi Tanginoa (Cowboys), Lee Mossop (Wigan), Liam Foran (London), Fuifui Moimoi (Leigh)
The player to watch: Jarryd Hayne is irreplaceable we get that. However, Will Hopoate is a damn fine footballer in his own right. He looked a little off the place early in his first season back last year, but should be better for the experience of regular footy (and origin footy), and he’ll be more comfortable in the fullback jersey in 2015.
The youngster to watch: The two rugby [league] players that people often compare 19-year-old Tepai Moeroa to are Sonny Bill Williams and Nathan Hindmarsh, which showcases the high regard many hold him in. The former rugby player is a tackling machine, and the Eels environment has already proven conducive to breeding quality forwards. He’s in our fantasy team.
The odds: $41.00
Last Year: 10th
This Year: Losing a Dally M Medal winners leaves a massive void in a squad, but it also frees up some salary cap to sign the like of Anthony Watmough and Kieran Foran. Even with the addition of Watmough we think the Eels will struggle to 12th / 13th this year.
Penrith Panthers
Ins: Apisai Koroisau (Rabbitohs), Tupou Sopoaga (Sharks)
Outs: Kierran Moseley (Titans), Eto Nabuli (Dragons), Tim Grant (Rabbitohs), Kevin Naiqama (Tigers), Wes Naiqama (London), Matt Robinson (Titans), Ryan Simpkins (Titans), Kevin Kingston (retired)
The player to watch: James Segeyaro’s arrival as an 80-minute hooker was both high quality and unexpected. For someone that made his bread and butter with cameo appearances, the young hooker surprised many by taking his game to the next level at the end of last year. He’ll be crucial this year too – but he’ll have live wire South’s recruit Apisai Koroisau to keep him company.
The youngster to watch: Matt Moylan’s probably not considered young by NRL standards anymore, especially now that he has a couple of seasons up his sleeve. He’s still incredible however. Moylan knows exactly when to inject himself into the backline and it’s that nous that will serve the Panthers well this year.
The odds: $10.00
Last Year: Fourth (elimination finalist)
This Year: Ivan Clearly and Phil Gould have transformed this team from overrated individuals to accomplished title contenders. They’ll go close this year again and should finish in the top 5.
St George Illawarra Dragons
Ins: Dane Nielsen (Warriors), Eto Nabuli (Panthers), Kris Keating (Hull KR), George Rose (Storm), Beau Henry (Titans), Heath L’Estrange (Roosters), Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard (Warriors)
Outs: Brett Morris (Bulldogs), Kyle Stanley (Sharks), Jack Stockwell (Knights), Sam Williams (Raiders), Jack Bird (Sharks), Matt Groat (Salford Red Devils), Gerard Beale (Sharks), Michael Witt (Dragons)
The player to watch: On paper Josh Dugan is the Dragons best player (sorry Gareth and Trent). Whether he’s mucking in at centre or sparking from fullback, Dugan is origin quality, and if he stays injury free will have a big impact for the Dragons in 2015.
The youngster to watch: Eto Nabuli looks to be the buy of the season if NRL Nines form is anything go by. Nabuli stole the show in Auckland and will almost certainly get a start in week one. Euan Aitken is pretty handy too.
The odds: $41.00
Last Year: 11th
This Year: Still finding their feet under Paul McGregor (as is Benji Marshall). Therefore, likely to finish around 14th.
Sydney Roosters
Ins: Blake Ferguson, Martin Kennedy (Broncos), Lagi Setu (Raiders), Abraham Papalii (Warriors), Matt McIlwrick (Raiders)
Outs: Sonny Bill Williams (Chiefs), Frank-Paul Nu’uausala (Raiders), Tautau Moga (Cowboys), Remi Casty (Catalans), Heath L’Estrange (Dragons), Curtis Naughton (Hull), Saulala Houma (Sharks), Anthony Minichiello (Roosters)
The player to watch: Blake Ferguson is no stranger to the headlines. We’re predicting a return to the headlines for the right reasons this year with devastating attacking play. Keep him off the booze and the Roosters will go well.
The youngster to watch: Jackson Hastings is a former Australian Schoolboys representative who predominantly plays in the halves or at hooker. With Jake Friend out for the first 6 weeks, Hastings should get his chance from the interchange bench.
The odds: $6.00
Last Year: First (preliminary finalist)
This Year: Too many big names to not feature in the finals series. Sonny Bill is not too big a loss when you have Aidan Guerra and Boyd Cordner to pick up the slack. Top 4 again this year.
South Sydney Rabbitohs
Ins: Glenn Stewart (Sea Eagles), Tim Grant (Panthers), Cody Walker (Storm), Sione Masima (Sharks), Daryl Millard (Catalans)
Outs: Sam Burgess (Bath), Ben Te’o (Leinster), Beau Champion (Eels), Apisai Koroisau (Panthers)
The player to watch: Dylan Walker’s form last year was rewarded with a representative jersey, and there’s no doubt he’ll be better for the experience. Looked in ominous form in the World Club Challenge against St Helens recently.
The youngster to watch: Chris Grevsmuhl’s second year with the Rabbitoh’s top grade side is expected to bring better things than his first. A knee reconstruction prevented him from taking any part last year, but he should be on the interchange for round 1 against the Broncos. Rightly so.
The odds: $5.00
Last Year: Third (winners)
This Year: Sam Burgess leaves a big hole, but George Burgess, Issac Luke and Greg Inglis are still around to shoulder the burden of being current NRL and NRL Nines champions. They’ll finish in the top 4 again this year and will go close to defending.
Wests Tigers
Ins: Kevin Naiqama (Panthers), Josh Drinkwater (London)
Outs: Adam Blair (Broncos), Blake Austin (Raiders), Braith Anasta (retired), James Gavet (Broncos), Bodene Thompson (Warriors), Jy Hitchcox (Featherstone)
The player to watch: If James Tedesco can stay on the park for longer than 80 minutes he’s our player to watch. If not, it’s probably Aaron Woods. Fullbacks make more interesting players to watch than props though, so we’ll stick with Tedesco.
The youngster to watch: Matthew Lodge isn’t that likeable. He was sanctioned for writing a c-bomd on his wrist strapping in the Under 20’s last year and was arrested as recently as 11 January. Nonetheless, he’s supposedly a decent player – so look out.
The odds: $41.00
Last Year: 13th
This Year: The Tigers have some handy players, and will cause many an upset in 2015. Just not enough to feature in the playoffs. 10th for Farah’s men.
