LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
As the NRL season progresses into the State of Origin period, teams are facing lineup changes, player absences, and challenging conditions that could affect their focus and performance.
This weekend features several matchups, with particular attention on the Bulldogs and the Dolphins.
Bulldogs Line-up:
- Fullback: Connor Tracey
- Wingers: Blake Wilson, Marcelo Montoya
- Centers: Bronson Xerri, Blake Taaffe
- Halves: Matt Burton, Toby Sexton
- Forwards: Lipoi Hopoi, Reed Mahoney, Josh Curran, Viliame Kikau, Harry Hayes, Bailey Hayward (Captain)
- Bench: Jake Turpin, Kurtis Morrin, Samuel Hughes, Luke Smith
- Reserves: Jack Underhill, Jonathan Sua
Dolphins Line-up:
- Fullback: Jake Averillo
- Wingers: Jamayne Isaako, Jack Bostock
- Centers: Max Feagai, Herbie Farnworth
- Halves: Kodi Nikorima, Isaiya Katoa
- Forwards: Francis Molo, Kurt Donoghoe, Felise Kaufusi, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki, Connelly Lemuelu, Ray Stone (Captain)
- Bench: Harrison Graham, Mark Nicholls, Josh Kerr, Oryn Keeley
- Reserves: Sean O'Sullivan, Junior Tupou
The match will take place at Accor Stadium at 7:50 PM AEST, with Todd Smith serving as the referee, supported by touch judges Chris Sutton and Dave Munro, and Bunker official Adam Gee.
As teams try to navigate their rosters and adjust to the impact of the Origin series, fans and analysts alike are bracing for the unpredictability that this period brings.
The sentiment captures the essence of the challenge: "Good luck with your tips."