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Holbrook's Halfback Gamble: Knights' Las Vegas Strategy
26 Feb
Summary
- Dylan Brown named halfback for Knights' Las Vegas opener.
- Bulldogs' key wingers Kiraz and Montoya racing the clock.
- Heilum Luki returns for Cowboys after ACL injury.
Newcastle Knights coach Justin Holbrook has revealed his strategy for the team's Las Vegas debut, opting to place marquee signing Dylan Brown at halfback (No. 7). Holbrook believes this move "won't change the way he plays" and backs Brown to partner Fletcher Sharpe in the halves. Holbrook emphasized the dangerous attacking threats this combination, along with Kalyn Ponga, will provide.
Brown, who has started 10 NRL games at halfback previously, will be supported by Sharpe, whom Holbrook compares to Kurt Gidley for his versatility. Trey Mooney is also set to start in the front row, a surprise to some. The North Queensland Cowboys see the return of Heilum Luki from an ACL injury, while Tom Chester is named in the centres following Zac Laybutt's suspension.
The Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs are in a race against time to have wingers Jacob Kiraz and Marcelo Montoya fit for their opening game. Both players participated in a training session but remain uncertain starters, with Enari Tuala and Jonathan Sua on standby. Matt Burton has been cleared to play despite a hamstring concern.
The St George Illawarra Dragons' Valentine Holmes has shifted to the right centre position for Round 1. He was previously on the left edge for the entire 2025 season. This change could see him form a new partnership with Warriors recruit Setu Tu on the right side.
