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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7. Round 7: Canberra Raiders v St George Illawarra Dragons, GIO Stadium, Sunday April 16
There was once a time where these teams had a more conventional rivalry, with the Raiders somehow holding a psychological edge over the Red V every time they played for a while. While that's not so much the case anymore, encounters as recent as last year have added some spice to this fixture.
Both of last year's encounters between these teams came down to just two-point margins. Both of these wins were secured in highly-controversial circumstances and were decided on virtually the last play of the game. Both were dissected heavily and drew comments from coaches. It might not be the rivalry at the front of anyone's mind, but this encounter is sure to offer something unexpected.
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?