LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The Canberra Raiders were not originally expected to be serious contenders for the NRL premiership in 2025\.
Concerns about their inexperienced spine, contract uncertainties regarding Jamal Fogarty, selection dilemmas, and a forward pack that may lack strength due to unproven players presented significant hurdles for coach Ricky Stuart\.
Compounding these challenges, the team's schedule features a demanding travel itinerary\.
The Raiders began their season in Las Vegas and, within the first 12 rounds, have only played five games at home in Canberra\.
Instead, their travels have taken them to various locations including Sydney, Townsville, Darwin, the Gold Coast, Brisbane, and Auckland, making the road ahead particularly grueling.
Despite these obstacles, there is a growing argument that the Raiders deserve serious consideration as premiership contenders\.
Their resilience and ability to navigate a tough start may position them for success as the season progresses.