LeagueNews.co | Jason Patrick
Canberra Raiders head coach Ricky Stuart has announced his plan to rest several players for the upcoming clash against the Dolphins next weekend.
This decision could significantly impact the playoff picture for those sitting at the bottom of the top eight, as the minor premiers opt to give some players a necessary week off.
While Stuart did not specify which players would be rested, he acknowledged on Triple M Radio following the team's victory against the Wests Tigers that a full-strength squad would not be fielded in Queensland next week.
Stuart emphasized that many players who are "banged up and need a rest" will be given time to recover before the Raiders' qualifying final, slated to take place at GIO Stadium in Canberra against an opponent that is yet to be determined.
According to reports from News Corp, the Raiders may rest at least six players, including Kaeo Weekes.
In the meantime, the Raiders are set to compete against either the Brisbane Broncos, New Zealand Warriors, or Cronulla Sharks, all of which are currently tied on 34 points and ranked between fourth and sixth in the league standings.
These teams will need to field their best players next weekend as they vie for the double chance heading into the first week of the finals.