NRL finals schedule: Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters v Manly Sea Eagles locked in

Manly has kept its season alive after a thrilling win over Canterbury, but it doesn’t get any easier from here. Check out the week two NRL finals schedule!

Daly Cherry-Evans celebrates after scoring a try for Manly. Picture: Getty Images

Manly’s semi-final hopes against the Sydney Roosters will rest on the shoulders of Tom Trbojevic, who made a successful return from an AC joint injury but not without a scare or two.

The superstar fullback looked hampered at times but proved to be a crucial cog in Manly’s courageous 24-22 win over Canterbury.

Flyer Jason Saab is a chance to return from an ankle injury but coach Anthony Seibold will find it hard to oust Tommy Talau or boom rookie Lehi Hopoate.

The return of veteran enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves (suspension) could not have come at a better time for the Roosters.

Tom Trbojevic on the charge for the Sea Eagles. Picture: Getty Images

The Roosters were battered and beaten by Penrith in last Friday night’s loss and will need every bit of Waerea-Hargreaves physicality. Even Angus Crichton was devoid of the venom he had routinely played with in 2024.

Trent Robinson is unlikely to make any significant team changes but the likes of halfback Sandon Smith struggled to take control of the match, flyer Dominic Young struggled to get himself into the attack and veteran winger Daniel Tupou had a costly error riddled night.

The winner will lock in a preliminary final date against Melbourne.

There are no more second chances for Cronulla when they take on an in-form North Queensland outfit on Friday night at Allianz Stadium.

The Sharks were outclassed by Melbourne in week one’s qualifier casting further doubt over Craig Fitzgibbon’s men as a finals force. The side has lost seven straight finals matches, and four under Fitzgibbon.

All eyes will be on halfback, and million-dollar man, Nicho Hynes. He’s struggled for confidence and form but Cronulla can’t afford another lacklustre performance from the no.7.

Fitzgibbon has the option to shake-up the halves by bringing in livewire Dan Atkinson.

Powerhouse centre Jesse Ramien (ankle) will add a much needed boost if he is cleared to take the field.. His inclusion will see Siosifa Talakai shifted to the bench.

The Cowboys face an arduous trip to Sydney on a six-day turnaround. But the Cowboys will be buoyed by a four-game winning streak, and the defensive resolve shown to overcome the Knights in a tight tussle.

Penrith will be waiting for the winner of Friday night’s clash in the preliminary final.

Originally published as NRL finals schedule: Cronulla Sharks v North Queensland Cowboys, Sydney Roosters v Manly Sea Eagles locked in