Every year loyal fans peruse the new NRL draw at their earliest opportunity, salivating at certain match-ups that offer either a long-standing rivalry or a more recent but equally compelling narrative โ and 2023 is no different.
We've browsed the full list and done the hard work for you โ these are the 10 games you can't miss in 2023.
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8. Round 21: Penrith Panthers v Canterbury Bulldogs, BlueBet Stadium, Sunday, July 23
It's coming a lot later in the season than originally anticipated, but the prodigal son of Cameron Ciraldo will finally return to the foot of the mountains where he carved out the bulk of his reputation. Just where each team sits at this point will be irrelevant, with pride and bragging rights both on the line. Viliame Kikau will also return to Penrith.
It's no secret that the entire Panthers playing group is enamoured with the recently-departed coach, such has been his influence on the side, and he'll have the kind of insider knowledge of the Panthers' structure and systems that most coaches would kill for. If the Dogs are on the up, this game might even be an opportunity for Ciraldo to make his case to any Panthers still thinking of following their former mentor to Belmore.
Some interesting games for sure, but Raiders v Dragons? Really?
Wests v Newcastle – to determine favouritism for the spoon?
I’d drop either of these and replace them with Manly v Whoever in the 2023 Pride Round. Who will turn out for the Eagles? Will social media pillory the players even more mercilessly than this year?