LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Jed Stuart emphasized the importance of a "team-first" mentality at the Raiders while discussing the challenging decision his father and coach, Ricky Stuart, faces regarding his selection for the upcoming finals. The young winger has stepped up impressively in place of injured star Savelio Tamale, who has been out since round 14 due to a knee injury.
Tamale was a contender for 'rookie of the year' before his dislocated kneecap suffered during a significant win against the Rabbitohs in June. He managed to score six tries in 14 appearances for the Raiders, standing out in tackle busts early in the season, following a brief stint in the NRL with the Dragons in 2024.
Expected to return for the Raiders in their round 26 match against the Wests Tigers, Tamale's comeback is eagerly anticipated as a significant boost for the team before the finals. However, this return creates a pressing challenge for the coach, with Jed likely to be the player benched.
"It'll probably be hard on him but I'll take none of it personally," Jed commented regarding the tough selection choice his father must make. "Whoever the coaching staff pick to go there will do a job, which I think is what me and 'Savie' have both proved."
"We're there to do a job and we've both done a pretty good one. If he goes in over me and whatnot, I'm happy with what the coaching staff have picked. I just want the team to win."
This positive mindset is surely music to the ears of Canberra's coach and reflects the team's impressive performance, as they currently lead the competition. The Raiders have won six of the seven matches that Jed has played this NRL season, contributing four tries since stepping in for Tamale.
Jed will have another opportunity to solidify his case for a starting position on Friday night when the Raiders take on the four-time reigning premiers, Penrith, in Mudgee. The Raiders remain unchanged from the squad that bested Manly before their recent bye, and a victory against the Panthers could significantly enhance their chances of securing the club's first minor premiership since 1900.