The 2026 NRL Telstra Premiership is about to kick off in Las Vegas, and the team lists are in! But will your favorite players be taking the field?
Round 1 is set to be a thrilling start to the season, with some big names returning from injury and a few controversial lineup decisions. Let's dive into the details:
Knights vs. Cowboys:
- The Knights receive a significant boost as their captain, Kalyn Ponga, is back in action after recovering from a foot injury. He's ready to lead the team, having missed the latter part of the previous season.
- In the backs, the Knights' Dane Gagai and Fletcher Sharpe are fit and ready, despite recent hamstring concerns. They'll be crucial in the team's quest to maintain their impressive Round 1 record.
- The Cowboys' Tom Chester steps in for Zac Laybutt, who received a two-game ban. Chester is eager to make an impact after missing the entire 2025 season due to an ACL injury.
- Keep an eye on the Cowboys' star recruit, Reed Mahoney, who will be a key player alongside experienced forwards Coen Hess and Jason Taumalolo.
Bulldogs vs. Dragons:
- Bulldogs fans can breathe a sigh of relief as five-eighth Matt Burton is cleared to play, despite a hamstring scare. Winger Marcelo Montoya also returns from an ankle injury, adding depth to the squad.
- The Dragons welcome Dan Atkinson, who will make his NRL debut for the Red V in Las Vegas. Setu Tu, a recent signing from the Warriors, is also set to make his NRL debut on the wing.
- With a six-man bench introduced, the Bulldogs' Cameron Ciraldo has named a strong interchange, including Kurt Mann and new signing Sean O'Sullivan.
But here's where it gets controversial: Are the Cowboys' lineup changes enough to secure a win? And will the Dragons' new signings make an immediate impact?
Stay tuned as these questions and more will be answered when the NRL action unfolds in the entertainment capital of the world. Remember, you can catch all the excitement live on Fox Sports and Kayo in Australia, and we encourage you to share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below!
