LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
The competition for the top spot in the NRL ladder has been intense in 2025, with the Canberra Raiders, Melbourne Storm, and Canterbury Bulldogs engaged in a close three-way race.
It appears that the Raiders are set to emerge at the forefront, having just one final challenge ahead of them on their path to securing the minor premiership.
This challenge is posed by the Wests Tigers, who are gearing up to face the Raiders with hopes of upsetting their journey to victory.
As underdogs, the Tigers are not anticipated to make a significant impact, especially as the NRL is poised to award the Raiders their first minor premiership in 35 years.
An NRL staff member is reportedly transporting the esteemed JJ Giltinan Shield to Canberra, as noted by the Daily Telegraph, with the expectation of presenting the award to Ricky Stuart and his Raiders.
Furthermore, as indicated by the Sydney Morning Herald, insiders have revealed that the NRL initially intended to present the trophy to the Raiders in the first week of the finals.
Despite these plans, Raiders officials have allegedly requested to hold their celebrations on Saturday, conditional on defeating the Tigers.