LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

NRL Unveils Grudge-Filled Round 1 Draw

The NRL has officially launched the Round 1 draw, presenting an exciting opener packed with rivalries, vengeance, and anticipation.

This season, for the first time, the league deployed AI technology to create the draw, resulting in a Round 1 lineup that feels like a promoter's fantasy.

Kicking off the season in Las Vegas on February 28, the Canterbury Bulldogs will battle the St George Illawarra Dragons while the Newcastle Knights take on the North Queensland Cowboys, all before a crowd of over 40,000 at Allegiant Stadium.

Back in Australia and New Zealand, the AI-generated schedule is packed with grudge matches that promise intense competition.

Former Melbourne Storm star Jonah Pezet goes head-to-head with his old team after joining the Parramatta Eels.

This matchup may also see Daly Cherry-Evans debut for the Sydney Roosters against a determined New Zealand Warriors team.

Additionally, fans can look forward to a preliminary final rematch, with Ivan Cleary's Penrith Panthers on the hunt for redemption against the Brisbane Broncos following their unexpected loss at Suncorp Stadium.