LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Penrith Panthers are gearing up for their semi-final match against the Canterbury Bulldogs on Sunday afternoon, returning to full strength with the anticipated comeback of Mitch Kenny.
This season has posed significant challenges due to injuries for the Panthers. However, opting to rest their entire squad in Round 26 has proven beneficial, as 16 of their top 17 players are able to make the trip to Auckland this weekend.
The sole absentee from their recent elimination final victory over the Warriors was Kenny, who is now expected to be back in action for the semi-final against a likely weakened Bulldogs squad.
Kenny, a key member of Penrith's spine, has been considered a week-to-week prospect, yet multiple reports suggest he will be included in the line-up for the upcoming match at Homebush.
The Panthers appear to have no significant injury concerns following their game against the Warriors.
As they aim to make history by becoming the first team in the current finals format to win the championship from outside the top four, Penrith's journey included overcoming the Warriors in Auckland last weekend. Additionally, the schedule provides them with an advantageous eight-day turnaround before facing the Bulldogs.