LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a highly anticipated round 19 NRL clash, the NZ Warriors will debut halfback Tanah Boyd as they face the Wests Tigers at the sold-out Go Media Stadium on Sunday at 4:00 PM.
Taine Tuaupiki has been named to start at fullback, while winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak returns from injury.
Queensland's Kurt Capewell is on the extended bench, with a potential late inclusion contingent on his performance in the State of Origin series decider.
With halfback Luke Metcalf out for the season due to an ACL injury sustained against the Broncos, Warriors head coach Andrew Webster has opted for the experienced Boyd, who has excelled in the club's New South Wales Cup side.
Boyd, at just 24 years old, will become Warrior #293.
He brings valuable experience from 69 NRL games with the Gold Coast and is recognized for his strong kicking skills, boasting an 80% goal-kicking success rate in first grade.
The team's interchange will feature utility player Te Maire Martin along with young talents Jacob Laban, Demitric Vaimauga, and Tanner Stowers-Smith.
The Warriors enter this match having recently experienced back-to-back losses for the first time this season against the Panthers and the Broncos, following their third and final bye.