LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Gold Coast Titans are considering a surprising choice for Round 1, as coach Josh Hannay may opt to debut rookie Siale Faeamani.
Faeamani, a little-known winger, has been part of the Panthers' system but moved to the Titans during the off-season to seek more playing opportunities.
Although he has not yet made his debut, he was behind several talented outside backs at Penrith, such as New South Wales State of Origin star Brian To'o, Paul Alamoti, the McLean brothers, and Thomas Jenkins, who surprisingly made his first-grade debut in 2025.
Known for his powerful ball-running, the 21-year-old is expected to make his debut on the wing in Round 1, which would be a significant surprise.
While the Titans are likely to field a spine comprising Keano Kini at fullback, AJ Brimson at five-eighth, and Jayden Campbell at halfback, it was anticipated that Jojo Fifita and Jaylan De Groot would be the starting wingers. Tony Francis is also in the mix, along with new recruit Phillip Sami and Max Feagai in the centres, following Brian Kelly's departure to the Parramatta Eels over the off-season.
Faeamani's addition, after reportedly impressing during the pre-season, could lead to De Groot-a talented player known for his speed-missing out on the season opener against the Cronulla Sharks.
De Groot had a challenging 2022 season, playing 17 games with only five tries in a team that often struggled.
Faeamani's raw talent makes this potential debut all the more surprising, as he scored just one try in three NSW Cup games during 2025, having debuted in that competition in Round 12 after progressing from Jersey Flegg.