NRL Live Updates: A Wet and Wild Weekend
The NRL season is heating up, and the action is set to intensify this weekend with a series of thrilling matches. From the wet and wild conditions in Canberra to the southern derby between Cronulla and St George Illawarra Dragons, there's plenty to keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Canberra Raiders vs. Newcastle Knights: A Wet and Wild Challenge
The Raiders are gearing up to face the Knights in a match that promises to be a test of their skills and adaptability. With the forecast predicting wet and windy conditions, the Raiders' signature quick and hard-running game may be challenged. However, winger Jed Stuart remains confident, stating, 'We'll probably still back our skill, whether it's wet or not.'
The Raiders' coach, Ricky Stuart, acknowledges the importance of the kicking game in such conditions, but he's confident in his players' abilities. The team news reveals a game-day change with Tom Starling starting at hooker and Owen Pattie moving to the bench. Simi Sasagi returns to the centres, while Seb Kris drops out of the matchday squad.
On the other side of the field, the Knights have also made a late change at hooker, with Phoenix Crossland replaced by Harrison Graham. Bradman Best's calf strain means Fletcher Hunt starts, and Diesel Hagan could make his NRL debut.
NRLW Sunday: A Dominant Display by the Raiders
In the women's competition, the Raiders delivered a stunning boilover victory against the NRLW ladder-leaders, Brisbane, with a score of 28-4. This was the Broncos' first defeat of the season, and they conceded 28 points for the first time since Round 6 last year, also against the Raiders. Charlotte Basham was a standout performer, scoring two tries, while Elise Simpson, Isabella Waterman, and Leianne Tufuga also crossed the line.
The Broncos were without their legendary leader, Ali Brigginshaw, who was banned for three matches for a dangerous tackle. This victory marks a significant moment for the Raiders, who have now beaten the Broncos in consecutive matches.
NRLW Saturday Wrap: Warriors Rebound, Canterbury Boosts Finals Hopes
The Warriors got their NRLW season back on track with a victory over Newcastle, while Canterbury and the Gold Coast also made significant strides in their pursuit of a finals appearance. Canterbury rebounded from a heavy defeat by claiming a rollercoaster 28-26 win over North Queensland, boosting their hopes of reaching the finals.
The Cowboys suffered a setback as captain Emma Manzelmann picked up an ankle injury, which could deal a huge blow to their ambitions of avoiding the wooden spoon. Canterbury had a poor start when centre Daynah Nankivell was sent to the sin bin, but they rallied to score four unanswered tries in 10 minutes, taking a 20-6 lead at halftime.
The Warriors, led by former Knights premiership coach Ronald Griffiths, showcased their top-six credentials with a pulsating 22-14 win over Newcastle. The Kiwis' roster changes have paid off, with winger Tysha Ikenasio finding back-to-back early four-pointers.
Sunday NRL: Top-Four Contenders and Southern Derby
As the ABC Sport coverage of the 2026 NRL season continues, fans can expect more thrilling matches. The top-four chasing Newcastle heads to Canberra, while the southern derby between Cronulla and St George Illawarra Dragons promises an exciting afternoon of football. The weather may add an extra layer of challenge, but the players' skills and determination will undoubtedly shine through.
Stay tuned for more live updates and in-depth analysis as the NRL season unfolds, bringing excitement and drama to fans across the globe.
