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NRL Trials: Young Guns Ready to Shine in Vegas Lead-Up
10 Feb
Summary
- NRL teams finalize pre-season trials before the 2026 season.
- Coaches are set to debut promising young players.
- Key players are returning from injury and others will be rested.
The NRL pre-season challenge is underway, featuring eight games in its second and final week before the 2026 season officially kicks off in Las Vegas. Teams like the Dragons, Knights, Bulldogs, and Cowboys are using these final trials to prepare for their trip to the US.
Coaches across the league are leveraging these matches to assess a wave of young talent. Many of these rising stars are expected to become integral first-grade players throughout the upcoming season. This period is critical for finalizing squads.
Several clubs are managing player availability carefully. Some veterans are returning from injury, such as Tom Flegler for the Dolphins, while others will be rested to avoid fatigue after the 2025 campaign. New recruits are also set to make their debut for various teams.
The trials offer a platform for players like Zane Harrison (Titans) and Jed Stuart (Raiders) to push for starting spots. The Storm and Sea Eagles are expected to field largely inexperienced sides, focusing on developing their future talent.
