LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Canberra Raiders have been knocking on the door of the finals in recent seasons, but 2025 is shaping up to be a make-or-break year for them.
Whether they can break into the top ranks or not will heavily rely on how their up-and-coming talent performs, with adjustments expected in their starting 17.
In the grand scheme of things, the Raiders have a promising crop of young players who can carry the team forward.
However, they have bid farewell to some seasoned veterans in the off-season, leaving a significant gap in leadership and experience that needs to be filled.
Coach Ricky Stuart and his team are facing a daunting challenge in finding the right mix of players to make up for the departed experience.
Elite Australian players have been elusive for the Raiders, but they have had no trouble attracting talent from across the pond.
In fact, English recruit Matty Nicholson is set to bolster their squad in 2025.
As they gear up for the new season, the Raiders will need to dig deep and draw on their strengths to overcome the obstacles in their path.
With a combination of seasoned pros and fresh faces, they have the potential to take the competition by storm and leave their mark on the Rugby League world.