Early Mail: NRL predicted starting teams for Round 1 2020
The first team-list Tuesday for 2020 is here — and the news keeps dropping ahead of the Round 1 announcements, with St George Illawarra set to pull a selection surprise for their season opener.
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The first team-list Tuesday for 2020 is here!
In the latest news ahead of today’s team announcements, St George Illawarra is set to pull a selection surprise for their season opener against the Wests Tigers.
Our late mail man Wacko’s Whispers reports that new recruit Brayden Wiliame is set to win a spot in the Dragons backline at the expense of Euan Aitken.
Wiliame trained at left centre for the Dragons, with regular centre Tim Lafai switching to the right side where Aitken normally starts.
DUGAN FITNESS CURVEBALL FOR SHARKS
Just when we thought the Cronulla backline was settled for Round 1, a few late curve balls were thrown at training on Monday.
Veteran Josh Dugan trained strongly despite a nightmare past two months overcome by a knee injury which severely hampered his pre-season, while young centre Bronson Xerri is racing the clock to prove his fitness following off-season shoulder surgery.
Xerri’s anticipated omission would see Josh Morris start at centre, after he had originally been slated to play fullback. Coach John Morris still has the option of playing his namesake at fullback, but young gun Will Kennedy did feature in both of the Sharks’ pre-season trial matches and did nothing to avoid being overlooked for the season-opener.
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However, that could all be blown open if Dugan, who can play both centre and fullback, proves his fitness.
Dugan, the Sharks marquee star on almost $900,000, appeared no chance of playing the early rounds after missing much of the pre-season with a chronic arthritis in his knee.
Yet the former Test centre “trained the house down” on Monday.
The Sharks are already without Matt Moylan due to a calf injury.
Connor Tracey is confirmed as the bench utility, while forward Toby Rudolf is expected to make his NRL debut from the bench.
— David Riccio
Meanwhile, rising Canterbury playmaker Brandon Wakeham has confirmed he’s won the battle for the Bulldogs’ No.6 jumper.
Wakeham revealed coach Dean Pay told him the good news on Friday. It means the local junior will partner Lachlan Lewis in the halves against Parramatta on Thursday night.
Reimis Smith also told The Daily Telegraph he will get first crack at centre on the left edge.
He’ll partner Nick Meaney, who has recovered from a hamstring injury and will start on the left wing.
Meaney’s availability means KFC SuperCoach cheapie prospect Jake Averillo won’t make the 17.
The right edge will be Will Hopoate at centre and Jayden Okunbor on the wing.
With an average age of 23.1, it’s the youngest backline in the NRL.
— Fatima Kdouh
At the Tigers, former Rabbitohs prop Zane Musgrove is set to complete a stunning career resurrection after being confirmed to play his first NRL game since 2017.
Following a brilliant pre-season, the 23-year-old prop has been handed a bench spot for the Tigers’ clash against the Dragons on Sunday.
Musgrove hasn’t played since pleading guilty to damaging property in New Zealand, then later being found guilty of an indecent assault of a woman at the Coogee Bay Hotel.
He is currently just the 64th most popular player in KFC SuperCoach, but that number is set to soar.
— Wacko’s Whispers
THE BAD NEWS
* Xavier Coates (will lose Broncos wing spot to Jesse Arthars, who is now a mid-range prospect)
* Billy Magoulias (will lose Sharks bench spot to Toby Rudolf, who is now a cheapie prospect)
* Ben Trbojevic (not in Manly top 30)
* Greg Leleisiuao (will lose Titans wing spot to Anthony Don)
* Bradman Best (due back in Round 4 due to a toe injury)
* Stefano Utoikamanu (will lose bench spot to Oregan Kaufusi, who is now a cheapie option)
* Tristan Sailor, Tommy Talau, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Jason Saab (won’t make 17).
THE GOOD NEWS
Plenty of fresh opportunities have also emerged, including:
* Brandon Wakeham (set to beat Jack Cogger to a halves spot at the Bulldogs)
* Warriors forwards Jamayne Taunoa-Brown and Josh Curran (will score bench spots in the absence of Bunty Afoa and Jackson Frei, who are both out for the season with ACL injuries).
* English international Kallum Watkins (was owned by under two per cent last week but will surge in popularity after scoring a centre spot at the Titans).
* Kalyn Ponga (now set to kick goals at the Knights with Mason Lino to miss the 17).
* Patrick Carrigan (confirmed to play lock for Brisbane and therefore the mid-range buy of the year).
* Don’t be surprised if KFC SuperCoach guns Jake Trbojevic (shoulder) and Cameron McInnes (knee) are sneaky inclusions well ahead of schedule.
THURSDAY
Parramatta Eels v Canterbury Bulldogs at Bankwest Stadium (8.05pm)
Eels:
1.Clint Gutherson
2.Maika Sivo
3.Michael Jennings
4.Waqa Blake
5.Blake Ferguson
6.Dylan Brown
7.Mitchell Moses
8.Junior Paulo
9.Reed Mahoney
10.Reagan Campbell-Gillard
11.Shaun Lane
12.Ryan Matterson
13.Nathan Brown
14.Ray Stone
15.Kane Evans
16.Marata Niukore
17.Oregon Kaufusi
Early Mail: Rising Parramatta prop Oregon Kaufusi’s desperate bid to play regular NRL football led him to drop a massive 10kg in five weeks. Now it appears his commitment has paid off with the 20-year-old set to secure himself a place in the Eels’ star-studded forward pack for the 2020 NRL season opener against Canterbury on Thursday week. Meanwhile, KFC SuperCoach cheapie Stefano Utoikamanu is set to miss out.
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Injury saw Nathan Brown play 10 less minutes per game in 2019 compared to his past two seasons. While there’s obvious improvement and potential there, it appears highly unlikely there’ll be any additional minutes to attract in the stacked forward pack. The real opportunity is on the bench, with a number of players competing over bench spots, but none of these guys really demand a purchase.
Fringe players: Ethan Parry, Daniel Alvaro, George Jennings, Jaeman Salmon, Stefano Utoikamanu, Peni Terepo, Brad Takairangi
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Eels centre Waqa Blake is the Eels’ only player who didn’t play any trials due to shoulder surgery. He has returned to full training and took part in a main opposed session last week and all things look positive for him to be named to start at right centre. Junior Paulo and Reagan Campbell-Gillard will be named as starting props. Ray Stone, Kane Evans, Oregon Kaufusi and Marata Niukore are tipped to make up the bench although Brad Takairangi, David Gower, Peni Terepo and Daniel Alvaro are also in contention.
Bulldogs:
1.Dallin Watene-Zelezniak
2.Nick Meaney
3.Will Hopoate
4.Reimis Smith
5.Jayden Okunbor
6.Lachlan Lewis
7.Brandon Wakeham
8.Aiden Tolman
9.Jeremy Marshall-King
10.Dylan Napa
11.Josh Jackson
12.Corey Harawira-Naera
13.Adam Elliott
14.Kerrod Holland
15.Dean Britt
16.Sione Katoa/Joe Stimson
17.Ofahiki Ogden/Renouf To’omaga
Early Mail: Bulldogs coach Dean Pay is set to spring a round one selection shock by handing a starting halves spot to local product Brandon Wakeham. Other surprising team selections include;
* Outside back Kerrod Holland to be back-up hooker off the interchange bench.
* New recruits Joe Stimson and Sione Katoa battling to make the round one side.
* Dean Britt to follow in his dad Darren’s footsteps in making his Bulldogs debut.
* Nick Meaney and Jeremy Marshall-King winning the battle to be passed fit to play.
Full story here by Michael Carayannis
Injured: Raymond Faitala-Mariner, Chris Smith, Sauaso Sue, Kieran Foran, Marcelo Montoya, Christian Crichton
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Brandon Wakeham has surged into cheapie calculations. Will Hopoate is a very consistent option at CTW, as is Aiden Tolman at FRF, however neither has the highest ceiling. Jayden Okunbor was very productive for SuperCoaches in 2019 with his great base stat average, but is very risky at his $526,000 price tag.
Fringe players to watch: Jack Cogger, Jake Averillo, Morgan Harper, Kerrod Holland
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Bulldogs have a number of players who haven’t trailed or got injured in trials or pre-season training. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak will play after missing the final trial due to a back injury picked up in the All Stars game. He will start at fullback which will see Will Hopoate move back to right centre. Nick Meaney picked up a hamstring injury in pre-season and is racing the clock. Back-up options Marcelo Montoya (knee) and Christian Crichton (knee) both missed pre-season games, so if Meaney is out we could see rookie Jake Averillo named to start on the left wing. Brandon Wakeham is reported to have won the halfback position ahead of Jack Cogger. Jeremy Marshall-King, who didn’t play any trials due to off-season shoulder surgery, is tipped to win the starting hooking position ahead of Sione Katoa, who is fighting for a bench position with Joe Stimson. Kerrod Holland is set to win the bench utility position with Dean Britt and either Renouf To’omaga or Ofahiki Ogden making up bench.
FRIDAY
Canberra Raiders v Gold Coast Titans at GIO Stadium (6pm)
Raiders:
1.Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
2.Nick Cotric
3.Jarrod Croker
4.Curtis Scott
5.Bailey Simonsson
6.Jack Wighton
7.George Williams
8.Josh Papalii
9.Josh Hodgson
10.Sia Soliola
11.Elliott Whitehead
12.Corey Horsburgh
13.Joe Tapine
14.Siliva Havili
15.Luke Bateman
16.Emre Guler
17.Dunamis Lui
Early Mail: Curtis Scott has been cleared by the NRL and will line up at right centre. John Bateman will miss the start of the season with a shoulder injury, pushing Corey Horsburgh to right backrow.
Injured/Suspended: John Bateman, Hudson Young, Sebastian Kris, Ryan Sutton
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Recruit George Williams has a KFC SuperCoach friendly game with tackle-breaking ability and general high attacking output and is priced at just $333,800. Provided he can break the curse of failed English backs – think Sam Tomkins and Zak Hardaker – he could figure in 2020. He is the best mid-range option in the halves for KFC SuperCoaches.
Fringe players: Sam Williams, Harley Smith-Shields, Michael Oldfield
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Raiders will be without John Bateman for Round 1 as he recovers from shoulder surgery. This will see Corey Horsburgh start on the right edge. The rest of the side is pretty much settled except for bench positions. Emre Guler and Dunamis Lui are guaranteed to make the 17 but the other two spots are open with Siliva Havili, Luke Bateman and Michael Oldfield fighting it out.
Titans:
1.AJ Brimson
2.Phillip Sami
3.Brian Kelly
4.Kallum Watkins
5.Anthony Don
6.Tyrone Roberts
7.Ash Taylor
8.Jarrod Wallace
9.Mitch Rein
10.Moeaki Fotuaika
11.Kevin Proctor
12.Tyrone Peachey
13.Jai Arrow
14.Nathan Peats
15.Shannon Boyd
16.Bryce Cartwright
17.Sam Stone
Early Mail: KFC SuperCoaches have lost one cheapie but gained another. Greg Leleisiuao is currently the 12th most popular player but is set to miss the squad. However, English international Kallum Watkins will score a centre position.
Injured: Beau Fermor, Keegan Hipgrave, Ryan James
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: The Titans’ 2019 Player of the Year, Mo Fotuaika scores at over a point per minute, so if he can up his game time he could become a KFC SuperCoach weapon. He’s already shown his ability to play in excess of 60, including an 80 minute effort in Round 14 last year. A devastating attacker, Leleisiuao has a very SuperCoach friendly game that would make him a must have should he be named to start in round one, although that’s unlikely.
Fringe players to watch: Greg Leleisiuao, Jonus Pearson, Erin Clark, Dale Copley, Jonus Pearson, Treymain Spry, Jai Whitbread
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Titans have a number of players in doubt with AJ Brimson (back), Shannon Boyd (shoulder) and Moeaki Fotuaika (knee) all failing to play the final trial. Brimson should be right for Round 1. New signing Sam Lisone is set to win a starting prop role. Mitch Rein has won the starting hooker position with Nathan Peats to be used as a running middle forward from bench.
North Queensland Cowboys v Brisbane Broncos at Queensland Country Bank Stadium (8.05pm)
Cowboys:
1.Valentine Holmes
2.Justin O’Neill
3.Tom Opacic
4.Esan Marsters
5.Kyle Feldt
6.Scott Drinkwater/Jake Clifford
7.Michael Morgan
8.Jordan McLean
9.Jake Granville
10.Francis Molo
11.Gavin Cooper
12.Coen Hess
13.Jason Taumalolo
14.Reece Robson/Ben Hampton
15.John Asiata
16.Peter Hola
17.Shane Wright
Early Mail: The six, nine and 14 are up for grabs. Scott Drinkwater played in the halves as a junior and won player of the series at the NRL Nines and looks to have won the five-eighth jersey for now. He faces stiff competition from Jake Clifford for the role.
After a mixed 2019 season, veteran hooker Jake Granville is also under some pressure from recruit Reece Robson, who was another standout as the Cowbys won the NRL Nines. Josh McGuire required meniscus surgery after the NRL Nines and looks set to miss the opening two rounds of the season.
Injured: Josh McGuire
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: With Jordan Kahu leaving the club, the goal kicking duties are up for grabs, with Valentine Holmes, Jake Clifford, Kyle Feldt and Esan Marsters all contenders. Expect Holmes to score the role. The departures of Scott Bolton and Matt Scott and injury to Josh McGuire could open up opportunity for cheap forwards Francis Molo and Peter Hola.
Fringe players to watch: Reuben Cotter, Mitchell Dunn, Tom Gilbert, Corey Jensen, Connelly Lemuelu
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Cowboys coach Paul Green’s main decision is who he partners with Michael Morgan in the halves. Scott Drinkwater didn’t play in the last trial due to injury but has returned to training and is favoured to get the five-eighth gig ahead of Jake Clifford. Either John Asiata or Francis Molo will start at prop with either Coen Hess or Shane Wright starting on the right edge. The only other positions up for grabs are left centre and left wing with Tom Opacic, Justin O’Neill and Connelly Lemuelu fighting it out.
Broncos:
1.Jack Bird
2.Corey Oates
3.Darius Boyd
4.Kotoni Staggs
5.Jesse Arthars
6.Anthony Milford
7.Brodie Croft
8.Tom Flegler
9.Jake Turpin
10.Payne Haas
11.David Fifita
12.Tevita Pangai Jnr
13.Patrick Carrigan
14.Andrew McCullough
15.Jamayne Isaako
16.Jamil Hopoate
17.Rhys Kennedy
Early Mail: The Broncos will unveil another debutant in Jamil Hopoate with a fresh setback to skipper Alex Glenn paving the way for the former bad boy to launch his NRL career against the Cowboys this Friday night. Glenn’s likely scratching will see Tevita Pangai Jr start in the back row, with Tom Flegler to partner Payne Haas in the front row.
The final interchange spot is a showdown between Rhys Kennedy, Ethan Bullemore and Jordan Riki. Kennedy is favoured to get the nod because rookies Bullemore and Riki are on development contracts and would require dispensation to play from the NRL.
In other news:
* Jesse Arthars has won a wing spot ahead of popular KFC SuperCoach cheapie Xavier Coates.
* Jamayne Isaako is set to play from the bench as a utility.
* Pat Carrigan scores the starting No. 13 jumper and should be locked in as a KFC SuperCoach buy.
Injured/Suspended: Alex Glenn (likely rested), Matt Lodge, Jordan Kahu, Sean O’Sullivan, Joe Ofahengaue
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Huge opportunity in the forwards with Patrick Carrigan set to start. Jack Bird is a POD after winning the fullback spot. Broncos are red-hot with Payne Haas the second most popular player and David Fifita third.
Fringe players to watch: Xavier Coates, Thomas Dearden, Jordan Kahu, Ilikena Vudogo, Jordan Riki, Cory Paix
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Broncos will be without a host of players with Matt Lodge (knee), Joe Ofahenguaue (suspension), Jordan Kahu (shoulder), Sean O’Sullivan (knee), Keenan Palasia (knee) and Alex Glenn (hamstring/calf) all unavailable. Tom Flegler will partner Payne Haas in the front row, with Tevita Pangai starting on the right edge. Jesse Arthars wins the right wing position ahead of Xavier Coates, whilst Jack Bird wins the fullback position despite failing to finish the last trial due to concussion. Andrew McCullough, Jamayne Issako and NRL debutant Jamil Hopoate are confirmed for the interchange, with the final spot in the 17 to go to Rhys Kennedy.
SATURDAY
Newcastle Knights v Warriors at McDonald Jones Stadium (3pm)
Knights:
1.Kalyn Ponga
2.Edrick Lee
3.Enari Tuala
4.Gehamat Shibasaki
5.Hymel Hunt
6.Kurt Mann
7.Mitchell Pearce
8.David Klemmer
9.Jayden Brailey
10.Daniel Saifiti
11.Lachlan Fitzgibbon
12.Mitchell Barnett
13.Herman Ese’ese
14.Connor Watson
15.Aidan Guerra
16.Tim Glasby
17.Jacob Saifiti
Early Mail: Kurt Mann will start the year at five-eighth. Gehamat Shibasaki scores a centre spot. Popular early-season cheapie Bradman Best (foot) is aiming for a Round 4 return.
Phoenix Crossland not expected to be fit to play until early in the regular season as he deals with bruising/inflammation of his pubic bone (osteitis pubis). Is an issue that is known to linger.
— NRL PHYSIO (@nrlphysio) January 30, 2020
Treatment: managing training loads & strengthening core/pelvic muscles pic.twitter.com/I485eJSFyy
Injured: Phoenix Crossland, Bradman Best, Sione Mata’utia
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: With no Mason Lino in the side Kalyn Ponga will kick goals, which dramatically increases his KFC SuperCoach value.
Fringe players to watch:Jacob Saifiti, Pasami Saulo, Starford To’a, Jirah Momoisea, Tautau Moga, Mason Lino
WACKO’S WHISPERS
The Knights 17 for Round 1 is pretty much settled. Kurt Mann wins the five-eighth position, Mitch Barnett moves to the right edge to cover for the injured Sione Mata’utia with either Tim Glasby or Herman Ese’ese to win the starting lock position.
Warriors:
1.Roger Tuivasa-Sheck/Hayze Perham/Peta Hiku
2.Ken Maumalo
3.Peta Hiku
4.David Fusitu’a
5.Patrick Herbert
6.Chanel Harris-Tavita
7.Blake Green
8.Agnatius Paasi
9.Wayde Egan
10.Leeson Ah Mau
11.Adam Blair
12.Tohu Harris
13.Isaiah Papali’i
14.Kodi Nikorima
15.Lachlan Burr
16.Josh Curran
17.Jamayne Taunoa-Brown
Early Mail: Chanel Harris-Tavita has won the race to partner Blake Green in the halves, with Kodi Nikorima to start on the bench reports Fatima Kdouh. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is set to play despite an injury during the trials. After playing mostly on the edge during his career, Isaiah Papali’i will switch to the middle in 2020.
Injured: Jazz Tevaga, Karl Lawton, Nathaniel Roache, Gerard Beale, Bunty Afoa, Jackson Frei
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: ACL injuries to Bunty Afoa and Jackson Frei mean potential cheapies Josh Curran and Jamayne Taunoa-Brown score bench spots.
Fringe players to watch: Adam Keighran, Taane Milne, Hayze Perham, Leivaha Pulu, Adam Tuimavave-Gerrard
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Warriors have an injury crisis with a number of players picking up injuries or knocks in the final trial. Josh Curran (calf), Roger Tuivasa-Sheck (ankle), Agnatius Paasi (ankle), Patrick Herbert (knock), Lachlan Burr (neck) and Kodi Nikorima (ankle) are all in doubt for Round 1 to go with a long term injury list of Jazz Tevaga (ankle), Nathaniel Roache (ACL), Bunty Afoa (ACL), Gerard Beale (broken leg) and Jackson Frei (ACL). Tuivasa-Sheck is touch and go with either Peta Hiku or Hayze Perham to start at fullback should RTS miss out. Herbert (right wing) and Burr (bench) should both be right to play with the main concerns over Nikroma, Curran and Paasi after they all failed to train earlier this week. Chanel Harris-Tavita should win the bench utility role and we will see Jamayne Taunoa-Brown make his NRL debut from bench.
South Sydney Rabbitohs v Cronulla Sharks at ANZ Stadium (5.30pm)
Rabbitohs:
1.Latrell Mitchell
2.Campbell Graham
3.Braidon Burns
4.James Roberts
5.Dane Gagai
6.Cody Walker
7.Adam Reynolds
8.Tom Burgess
9.Damien Cook
10.Junior Tatola
11.Jaydn Su’A
12.Cameron Murray
13.Liam Knight
14.Alex Johnston
15.Mark Nicholls
16.Ethan Lowe*/Keaon Koloamatangi
17.Tom Amone
Early Mail: Coach Wayne Bennett has indicated Cameron Murray will switch to an edge with Liam Knight to play lock. With Latrell Mitchell set to play fullback for the Rabbitohs and a stacked backline, Alex Johnston will likely be pushed to the bench or out of the 17 entirely. The retirements of Sam Burgess and John Sutton have opened up spot on an edge, with Jaydn Su’A set to fill the vacancy.
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Braidon Burns was a breakout KFC SuperCoach star last season before succumbing to hamstring injuries early on in two games throughout the year restricting his average minutes (68) and points (49). As a result Burns is underpriced with impressive base stats to boot, but can he get through the pre-season with a full bill of health? At just $303,600, Jaydn Su’A will be a great mid-range option if he can up his minutes to nearly the full 80.
Fringe players: Bryson Goodwin, Ky Rodwell, Bayley Sironen
WACKO’S WHISPERS
The Rabbitohs starting 13 will be the same as the Charity Shield with Jaydn Su’A to start on the right edge despite failing to finish the trial due to concussion. Liam Knight will start at lock with Cameron Murray moving to the left edge. The make up of the bench is a query with Hame Sele, Alex Johnston, Keaon Koloamatangi, Bayley Sironen, Tom Amone, Mark Nicholls and Ethan Lowe (if fit) all fighting for spots.
Sharks:
1.Will Kennedy
2.Sione Katoa
3.Jesse Ramien
4.Josh Morris
5.Ronaldo Mulitalo
6.Shaun Johnson
7.Chad Townsend
8.Andrew Fifita
9.Blayke Brailey
10.Aaron Woods
11.Briton Nikora
12.Wade Graham
13.Jack Williams
14.Connor Tracey
15.Jayson Bukuya
16.Braden Hamlin-Uele
17.Toby Rudolf
Early Mail: Veteran Josh Dugan trained strongly on Monday despite a nightmare past two months overcome by a knee injury which severely hampered his pre-season, while young centre Bronson Xerri is racing the clock to prove his fitness following off-season shoulder surgery. Xerri’s anticipated omission would see Josh Morris start at centre, who had originally been slated to play fullback. Coach John Morris still has the option of playing his namesake at fullback, but young gun Will Kennedy did feature in both of the Sharks pre-season trial matches and did nothing to avoid being overlooked for the season-opener.
The Sharks are already without Matt Moylan due to a calf injury. Connor Tracey is confirmed as the bench utility, while forward Toby Rudolf is expected to make his NRL debut from the bench.
Injured: Josh Dugan, Cameron King
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Blayke Brailey is set for a huge increase in minutes and is shaping as the cheapie of the year. Jack Williams (37 minutes) and Braden Hamlin-Uele (36 minutes) are mid-range options following the exits of Paul Gallen and Matt Prior.
Fringe players to watch: Sione Katoa, Teig Wilton, Will Kennedy
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Ronaldo Mulitalo (knee) and Shaun Johnson (virus) have returned to training and will play after missing the final trial. Sione Katoa is set to win the left wing position.
Penrith Panthers v Roosters at Panthers Stadium (7.35pm)
Panthers:
1.Caleb Aekins
2.Josh Mansour
3.Brent Naden
4.Dean Whare
5.Brian To’o
6.Jarome Luai
7.Nathan Cleary
8.James Tamou
9.Api Koroisau
10.Zane Tetevano
11.Viliame Kikau
12.Isaah Yeo
13.James Fisher-Harris
14.Matt Burton
15.Liam Martin
16.Moses Leota
17.Kurt Capewell
Early Mail: Caleb Aekins will play fullback with Dylan Edwards (ankle) injured.
Injured/Suspended: Dylan Edwards, Mitch Kenny, Dean Blore, Shawn Blore, Brayden McGrady, Tyrone May
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Jarome Luai has the five-eighth role secured and is one of the cheapies of the year. Api Koroisau has soared in KFC SuperCoach ownership after scoring the starting hooker spot and being confirmed of big minutes, possibly 80.
Fringe players to watch: Caleb Aekins, Jack Hetherington, Tyrone May, Malakai Watene-Zelezniak
WACKO’S WHISPERS
James Fisher-Harris didn’t play any trials due to a pectoral injury but is expected to be named in the No.13 jersey. This will see Zane Tetevano partner James Tamou in the front row with Isaah Yeo to start on the right edge. Jarome Luai has won the race to partner Nathan Cleary in halves with the make up of the bench to be something like Matt Burton or Kurt Capewell or Mitch Kenny, Liam Martin, Moses Leota and Jack Hetherington.
Roosters:
1.James Tedesco
2.Daniel Tupou
3.Angus Crichton
4.Joseph Manu
5.Brett Morris
6.Luke Keary
7.Kyle Flanagan
8.Jared Waerea-Hargreaves
9.Jake Friend
10.Siosiua Taukeiaho
11.Boyd Cordner
12.Mitchell Aubusson
13.Victor Radley
14.Sam Verrills
15.Isaac Liu
16.Nat Butcher
17.Sitili Tupouniua/Lindsay Collins
Early Mail: The departure of Latrell Mitchell looked set to open up a centre role for gun rookie Billy Smith, before he suffered a devastating ACL injury at training. That centre spot could logically now fall likely fall to one of Matt Ikuvalu, Brett Morris, Ryan Hall or Mitch Aubusson, but Angus Crichton was picked to play there in the World Club Challenge and will stay there for round one.
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Kyle Flanagan averaged 78 minutes at Cronulla last season for a healthy return of 50 points per game, making him an interesting option given he is now on a better offensive team. Priced at just $530,100, Angus Crichton is also worth a look if he can work his way into an 80-minute forward role, but as a true centre he is a player to avoid. Sitili Tupouniua/Lindsay Collins prick the ears as cheapies.
Fringe players: Lachlan Lam, Ryan Hall, Matt Ikuvalu, Asu Kepaoa
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Roosters have Boyd Cordner in some doubt after he missed WCC due to work load management. He has had an interrupted pre-season but knowing Cordner’s history he will do everything possible to be fit. Angus Crichton will recover from concussion suffered in WCC to line up at left centre with either Lindsay Collins or Sitili Tupouniua to win the final bench position.
SUNDAY
Manly Sea Eagles v Melbourne Storm at Lottoland (4.05pm)
Sea Eagles:
1.Tom Trbojevic
2.Jorge Taufua
3.Brad Parker
4.Moses Suli
5.Reuben Garrick
6.Dylan Walker
7.Daly Cherry-Evans
8.Martin Taupau
9.Danny Levi
10.Toafofoa Sipley
11.Curtis Sironen
12.Joel Thompson
13.Sean Keppie/Jake Trbojevic
14.Cade Cust/Lachlan Croker
15.Morgan Boyle
16.Corey Waddell
17.Haumole Olakau’atu/Tony Williams
Early Mail: Superstar fullback Tom Trbojevic is fit again and ready for round one — and he might just be joined by brother Jake for the season opener against Melbourne. Tom has overcome hamstring and pectoral injuries which disrupted him last season to declare: “I’m fit and just want to play some footy. I love the game, let’s get out there.”
And his brother Jake, expected to miss the opening two games through a shoulder injury, has worked incredibly hard in rehab over summer and could be a surprise inclusion for the round one game at Brookvale Oval.
Manly forwards Addin Fonua-Blake (shoulder) and Taniela Paseka (left ankle) are also in doubt for the first few games of this season.
Full story by Dean Ritchie here
Injured: Addin Fonua-Blake, Taniela Paseka, Albert Hopoate, Jack Gosiewski
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: Curtis Sironen was a quiet achiever in 2019, averaging 76 minutes and 56 points a game and could be a POD option.
Fringe players: Brendan Elliot, Tevita Funa, Luke Metcalf, Manase Fainu, Lachlan Croker
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Sea Eagles decided to rest a few of players from the trials including Daly Cherry-Evans, Tom Trbojevic, Jorge Taufua, Dylan Walker, Rueben Garrick and Corey Waddell. Jake Trbojevic (shoulder), Addin Fonua-Blake (shoulder), Jake Gosiewski (back), Taniela Paseka (ankle), Manese Fainu (shoulder/suspension) and Albert Hopoate (ACL) are all expected to be unavailable for Round 1. The starting 13 looks set with Toafofoa Sipley to play prop and Sean Keppie to win the No. 13 jersey. The make up of the bench is still up in the air. Corey Waddell is certain to get a spot with the final three spots between Lachlan Croker, Cade Cust, Morgan Boyle, Haumole Olakau’atu and Tony Williams.
Storm:
1.Ryan Papenhuyzen
2.Suliasi Vunivalu
3.Marion Seve/Brenko Lee
4.Justin Olam
5.Josh Addo-Carr
6.Cameron Munster
7.Jahrome Hughes
8.Jesse Bromwich
9.Cameron Smith
10.Nelson Asofa-Solomona
11.Kenny Bromwich
12.Felise Kaufusi
13.Dale Finucane
14.Harry Grant
15.Tino Fa’asuamaleaui
16.Tui Kamikamica
17.Max King/Thomas Eisenhuth/Christian Welch
Early Mail: Brandon Smith is out with a face fracture, bringing young gun Harry Grant into the side. Centre is an area of weakness following the exits of Will Chambers and Curtis Scott. While the backline mostly appears locked in, Marion Seve and Brenko Lee will be battling it out for the right centre spot, with both impressing this pre-season
Injured: Christian Welch, Brandon Smith
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: One of either Marion Seve or Brenko Lee will look to get a starting spot, but are awkwardly priced at $393,400 and $309,500 respectively. But the real opportunity here is fullback Ryan Papenhuyzen who is underpriced at just $508,200, despite incredible KFC SuperCoach output when starting at fullback.
Fringe players: Cooper Johns, Nicho Hynes
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Storm 17 for Round 1 only has a couple of question marks. Either Marion Seve or Brenko Lee will win the right centre position. The only other position up for grabs is on the bench and will be determined by Christian Welch’s fitness after recovering from ACL injury. He didn’t play any trials but if fit will take the final bench position. If Storm decide to ease him back through Q Cup we could see either Albert Vete, Max King or even NRL debutant Darryn Schonig.
St George Illawarra Dragons v Wests Tigers at WIN Stadium (6.15pm)
Dragons:
1.Zac Lomax
2.Jordan Pereira
3.Brayden Williame
4.Tim Lafai
5.Mikaele Ravalawa
6.Corey Norman
7.Ben Hunt
8.Paul Vaughan
9.Issac Luke/Cameron McInnes
10.James Graham
11.Tyson Frizell
12.Tariq Sims
13.Trent Merrin
14.Billy Brittain
15.Jackson Ford
16.Josh Kerr*
17.Blake Lawrie
Early Mail: The Dragons are set to pull a selection surprise, with new recruit Brayden Wiliame starting in the centres at the expense of first-team regular Euan Aitken.
Meanwhile the injury curse continues at the Dragons with hard-running forward Korbin Sims ruled out for the next six weeks following surgery for a broken arm. In a major blow for both the 28-year-old and St George-Illawarra fans, Sims underwent surgery after originally injuring his arm at the Perth Nines last month. Initial scans came back positive for Sims. However, persistent pain led to follow-up scans which revealed a small fracture.
Full story here by David Riccio
Issac Luke and Billy Brittain are set to share the hooking role due to the injury to Cameron McInnes, who is officially due back any time between round 3-9. However, don’t be surprised to see McInnes in the squad for the opening round.
Injured: Korbin Sims, Josh Kerr
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: With Lomax expected to start at fullback and earn the goalkicking duties, he is a genuine option with his CTW dual-eligibility, despite his awkward price of $324,600. Trent Merrin has been a KFC SuperCoach gun of the past and could be worth a risk at $408,000 if he does start. Also jot down Brayden Wiliame as a Round 1 smoky.
Fringe players to watch: Matt Dufty, Tyrell Fuimaono, Brayden Wiliame, Joe Lovodua, Jason Saab, Tristan Sailor
WACKO’S WHISPERS
Dragons have both Cameron McInnes and Josh Kerr outside chances to play. But I expect both to miss out with Isaac Luke named to start at hooker. James Graham hasn’t played any trials but is expected to be named to start at prop, although it’s been reported he will see less minutes this season. Jordan Pereira and Mikaele Ravalawa look set to win wing positions but all KFC SuperCoaches will be hoping Brayden Wiliame gets named somewhere in the starting 13. Billy Brittian will likely be named on bench with Jacob Host, Jackson Ford and Tyrell Fuimaono all fighting for the final bench spot.
Tigers:
1.Corey Thompson
2.David Nofoaluma
3.Joey Leilua
4.Adam Doueihi
5.Paul Momirovski/Robert Jennings
6.Benji Marshall
7.Luke Brooks
8.Alex Twal
9.Billy Walters
10.Thomas Mikaele
11.Luciano Leilua
12.Luke Garner
13.Josh Aloiai
14.Josh Reynolds
15.Zane Musgrove
16.Michael Chee-Kam
17.Matt Eisenhuth
Early Mail: Adam Doueihi made a quick exit from South Sydney in a bid to become a permanent fullback but the Wests Tigers recruit might have to bide his time in the centres. He is also expected to take on the goal kicking duties.
Michael Maguire looks set to stick with Corey Thompson in the fullback role with Paul Momirovski and Robert Jennings the top contenders for the last wing spot.
In other key news:
* Moses Mbye will miss the start of the season with a knee injury, opening a centre spot.
* Billy Walters is set to start at hooker ahead of Josh Reynolds.
Full story by Michael Carayannis
Injured: Jacob Liddle, Russell Packer
KFC SuperCoach opportunity: KFC SuperCoaches are praying Luciano Leilua thrives in his new environment with a monster pre-season. Averaging 47 points in 41 minutes last season, the former Dragon has massive upside should he lock down an 80-minute role at Concord. Billy Walters could also be a cheapie option as he looks likely to either start at hooker or get a bench utility spot. Mail suggests he’ll start ahead of Josh Reynolds.
Fringe players to watch: Tommy Talau, Sam McIntyre, Chris McQueen, Chris Lawrence
WACKO’S WHISPERS
New recruit Billy Walters has won the starting No. 9 job. Matt Eisenhuth missed the final trial due to a foot injury but should be fit for Round 1. Thomas Mikaele is set to start at prop. Zane Musgrove has been very impressive in the trials and is expected to be named on the bench alongside Josh Reynolds and Michael Chee-Kam.
Originally published as Early Mail: NRL predicted starting teams for Round 1 2020