Sixteen NRL clubs are gearing up for the opening round of the 2025 NRL season as Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas hosts the opening match for the second consecutive year.
Several new recruits will be on show for different clubs in Round 1, including Clinton Gutherson (Dragons), Jarome Luai (Tigers), and Zac Lomax (Eels).
Meanwhile, the Brisbane Broncos are set to make a positional change involving one of their star players.
Melbourne Storm vs Parramatta Eels
For the first time since 2014, Christian Welch won't be available for selection after announcing his medical retirement, freeing up a spot on the Storm's interchange bench.
Lazarus Vaalapu is the likely replacement for him after appearing in the 2024 NRL Grand Final. Nelson Asofa-Solomona also remains suspended for Round 1 with recruit Stefano Utoikamanu taking his position in the starting front-row.
The Storm have also suffered a massive blow with fullback Ryan Papenhyzen in doubt for the opening round of the 2025 NRL season as he continues to battle lingering ankle and knee issues.
After club officials confirmed he'd miss the two pre-season matches, QLD Maroons winger Xavier Coates will be available after suffering an injury scare at training with his right ankle being attended to.
“Xavier is going really well. He's not training with the team just yet, but he's been running close to full speed with our rehab staff," GM of Football Frank Ponissi said.
“We're confident he'll be ready to go and play Round 1 against Parramatta.
“Jahrome had a minor calf issue over the last week and he's just getting back to full training.
“Sunday is probably a bit too early for him to play, so like Xavier we expect Jahrome to be fully fit for the Parramatta (Round 1) game.”
Projected Round 1 team: 1. Sua Fa'alogo 2. Will Warbrick 3. Jack Howarth 4. Nick Meaney 5. Xavier Coates 6. Cameron Munster 7. Jahrome Hughes 8. Stefano Utoikamanu 9. Harry Grant 10. Josh King 11. Shawn Blore 12. Eliesa Katoa 13. Trent Loiero 14. Tyran Wishart 15. Alec MacDonald 16. Lazarus Vaalepu 17. Tui Kamikamica
Entering a new era under Jason Ryles, the Eels will have a few new faces in their line-up, but Josh Addo-Carr won't be one as he remains on the sidelines due to a suspension from last year.
Isaiah Iongi will take the fullback spot previously held by Clinton Gutherson. Joash Papalii and Ryley Smith impressed in the club's first pre-season match and are bolters for the utility spot off the interchange bench.
Duo Bailey Simonsson and Shaun Lane will be unavailable due to injury.
Projected Round 1 team: 1. Isaiah Iongi 2. Jake Tago 3. Will Penisini 4. Zac Lomax 5. Sean Russell 6. Dylan Brown 7. Mitchell Moses 8. Joe Ofahengaue 9. Brendan Hands 10. Junior Paulo 11. Bryce Cartwright 12. Jack Williams 13. J'maine Hopgood 14. Joash Papalii 15. Ryan Matterson 16. Kelma Tuilagi 17. Wiremu Greig
