The Canberra Raiders are poised to give rookie halfback Coby Black his debut in their final match of 2026 against the North Queensland Cowboys.
As reported by the Courier Mail, Black will have his opportunity to prove himself in Ricky Stuart's squad, as many fans have been anticipating his first appearance.
Once viewed as Adam Reynolds' successor at the Brisbane Broncos, the team instead opted to sign Jonah Pezet to a long-term contract, which hindered Black's progression.
At 20 years old, he was released from his deal and joined the Raiders on a three-year contract, now set to compete in a crucial game against a finals-bound team.
Black has played twice for the Under-19s Queensland Maroons, captaining the side in a nail-biting 23-22 victory over the Junior Blues in 2025.
This match presents a prime chance for Black to demonstrate why he could be the Raiders' future halfback, even with Sanders having a terrific season as the starting halfback.
The Raiders are in a position to feature all three of their young playmakers together, with NSW Blues talent Ethan Strange experienced in the centres, but it's still uncertain where Black will line up on Saturday night.
In his NSW Cup season for the Raiders, Black achieved 17 try assists, nine forced dropouts, and 77 goals over 19 matches.
His reserve-grade season wrapped up last weekend, with the Raiders finishing ninth and missing out on the finals.