LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The NRL Pre-Season Challenge is set to ignite on February 15, with 16 exhilarating clashes that promise to bring footy fans to the edge of their seats.
It's the perfect opportunity for teams to fine tune their combinations and get some serious game time under their belt before the Telstra Premiership season kicks off in Las Vegas on March 3.
Just like a high-stakes poker game, the Pre-Season Challenge format and points system will remain consistent with last year, offering a massive $100,000 in prize money up for grabs.
Teams will need to play their cards right and earn bonus points for tries, line breaks, and offloads to secure a slice of the lucrative pot.
It's a true test of skill and strategy, with squads limited to 28 players per week - a challenge that will separate the contenders from the pretenders.
However, there will be one notable absence this year, with the reigning premiers Penrith Panthers trading the glitz and glamour of the Pre-Season Challenge for a battle across the pond in the World Club Challenge against Wigan.
The games will unfold over 80 minutes of heart-racing action, where teams can make as many changes as they like, akin to a well-executed coaching move on the sporting chessboard.
So, get ready for the NRL Pre-Season Challenge, where the gloves are off and teams will do whatever it takes to seize the early advantage in their quest for Telstra Premiership glory.