NRL Round 1 Teams: Bellamy’s Call, Maguire’s Spine Shake-Up & Key Decisions Revealed

Round 1 of the NRL season is shaping up to be a fascinating affair, with several key selection decisions already making headlines. Coaches are putting the finishing touches on their lineups, and a number of veterans uncover themselves on the fringes as new talent emerges. From Melbourne’s revamped backline to the intriguing halves partnership at the Roosters, here’s a breakdown of the major team news and what it means for the weeks ahead.

Storm Navigate Life After Papenhuyzen

Craig Bellamy faces a significant challenge as the Melbourne Storm initiate life without Ryan Papenhuyzen, who is sidelined with an Achilles injury. Sualauvi Faalogo has been handed the responsibility of filling the No. 1 jersey, a testament to the young fullback’s potential. With Xavier Coates also unavailable, Moses Leo slots into the centres, pushing Nick Meaney out to the wing. The Storm’s forward pack also looks markedly different, with Joe Chan, Ativalu Lisati, and Alec MacDonald all earning starting spots. Cooper Clarke and Preston Conn are set to develop their NRL debuts, adding further depth to the squad.

The changes are a forced hand for Bellamy, but they present an opportunity for emerging players to prove their worth. Faalogo’s performance at fullback will be closely watched, while Leo’s transition from Rugby Sevens will be tested in the NRL arena. The new-look forward pack will need to quickly gel to provide a platform for the Storm’s attacking prowess.

Eels Adjust to Life Without Addo-Carr

The Parramatta Eels also face challenges in their backline, with Josh Addo-Carr sidelined due to a thumb injury. Sean Russell steps into the vacant wing spot, while Jack De Belin makes his club debut at lock. The Eels have also handed a starting role to Jonah Pezet at five-eighth, tasked with filling the shoes of Dylan Brown. Bailey Simonsson has been given another opportunity to cement a regular spot in the backline, hoping to redeem himself after falling out of favour with coach Jason Ryles.

The Eels’ season hinges on how quickly Pezet can adapt to the NRL level and how effectively Russell can fill the void left by Addo-Carr. Simonsson’s performance will be crucial, as he looks to prove his worth and secure a long-term future with the club.

Halves Partnership Headlines Roosters’ Lineup

One of the most anticipated matchups of Round 1 will be the halves pairing of Daly Cherry-Evans and Sam Walker at the Sydney Roosters. The duo will finally take the field together, and expectations are high for their combination. With Reece Robson injured, Benaiah Ioelu gets the nod at hooker, while Connor Watson provides utility value off the bench.

The success of the Cherry-Evans-Walker partnership will be pivotal for the Roosters’ premiership aspirations. Ioelu’s performance at hooker will also be key, as he looks to establish himself as a regular starter. The Roosters’ bench, featuring Watson and Dragons recruit Cody Ramsey, provides depth and versatility.

Broncos’ Hooker Decision Raises Eyebrows

Michael Maguire’s decision to name Cory Paix as the starting hooker for the Brisbane Broncos, with Ben Hunt on the bench, has sparked debate. Hunt, a veteran playmaker, could provide a spark off the bench, but starting him on the pine raises questions about the Broncos’ game plan. Jack Gosiewski replaces the injured Brendan Piakura in the back row, while Aublix Tawha joins the bench.

The Hunt call is intriguing, particularly given his potential future with the club. Will being benched serve as a career extender, or a sign that it’s time to consider retirement? Paix’s performance will be under scrutiny, as he looks to justify Maguire’s faith in him.

Panthers’ Forward Pack Remains Strong

Despite the absence of Liam Martin due to a calf injury, the Penrith Panthers’ forward pack remains formidable. Luke Garner steps into the back row, while Isaiah Papali’i provides impact off the bench. Jack Cogger, returning to the club after a stint at the Knights, is named on the interchange, alongside Warriors recruits Kalani Going and Freddy Lussick.

Garner’s performance will be crucial in filling the void left by Martin, while Papali’i’s versatility allows Ivan Cleary to rotate his forwards effectively. The addition of Going and Lussick adds depth and competition to the Panthers’ squad.

Sharks’ Backline Stability

The Cronulla Sharks boast a settled backline, with Sione Katoa overcoming a groin concern to take his place. Sam Stonestreet gets the nod on the wing in place of the injured Ronaldo Mulitalo, while Billy Burns starts in the back row. Siosifa Talakai, Toby Rudolf, Oregon Kaufusi, and Braden Hamlin-Uele form a strong bench.

Stonestreet’s performance will be key, as he looks to cement his spot in the starting lineup. The Sharks’ forward pack provides a solid platform for their attacking plays.

Titans’ New Look

The Gold Coast Titans have named a new-look side, with Lachlan Ilias taking the No. 7 jersey following Jayden Campbell’s hamstring injury. Siale Faeamani makes his NRL debut, while Arama Hau starts in the back row. Cooper Bai and Kurtis Morrin are named on the bench.

Ilias’s performance will be crucial, as he looks to establish himself as the Titans’ long-term halfback. Faeamani’s debut will be closely watched, while Bai and Morrin provide depth and versatility.

Raiders’ Rookie Gamble

Ricky Stuart has made a surprising selection call, naming Jayden Brailey on the interchange bench over Owen Pattie. Matt Timoko and Matty Nicholson are still recovering from injuries, while Daine Laurie and Jed Stuart are named on the reserves.

Brailey’s inclusion is a gamble, but it could pay dividends in the long run. Pattie’s development will continue in reserve grade, while the Raiders’ forward pack looks strong with Josh Papali’i and Joseph Tapine leading the charge.

Dolphins Look to Build Momentum

The Dolphins will look to build on their promising start to the season, with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow retaining the fullback jersey. Jake Averillo, Jamayne Isaako, and Herbie Farnworth form a strong backline, while Tom Gilbert and Thomas Flegler lead the forward pack. Trai Fuller is named on the bench.

Tabuai-Fidow’s performance at fullback will be key, while the Dolphins’ forward pack will need to dominate the middle of the field.

Rabbitohs’ New-Look Backline

The South Sydney Rabbitohs have named a new-look backline, with Latrell Mitchell shifting to the centres to accommodate Jye Gray at fullback. Campbell Graham moves to the wing, while Jack Wighton and Cody Walker form a formidable halves partnership. Ashton Ward makes his club debut at five-eighth.

Mitchell’s transition to the centres will be closely watched, while Ward’s debut will be a key talking point. The Rabbitohs’ forward pack, led by Tevita Tatola and Cameron Murray, will need to provide a platform for their attacking stars.