Footy is back! Rugby League returns this weekend for 2025 and where better to kick it all off than in the City of Sin? The proud supporters of the Nation’s capital are set to turn Allegiant Stadium from Raider black to Raider green, while the Wahs are hell-bent on redemption after a disappointing 2024. On the other hand, the reigning four-peat premiers Penrith are out to prove the true depth of their next man up mentality after some major off-season departures, and the Cronulla Sharks look to go one game deeper this year after bowing out to the Panthers in the prelim! The first week of round one promises to be a huge weekend of the National Rugby League, so let’s dive in and take a look at all our tips and predictions for Round 1 of the NRL.
Canberra Raiders v New Zealand Warriors:
The Canberra Raiders are set to make a powerful statement as they kick off their 2025 NRL season in Las Vegas. With an impressive track record in season openers—winning five of their last six Round 1 matches—the Green Machine is no stranger to starting strong. Their only first-round loss since 2019 came in a nail-biting 19-18 defeat to the Cowboys in 2023, where they fought back from a 12-point halftime deficit.
Coach Ricky Stuart knows how to fire up his squad for a season opener, and what better stage than the bright lights of Vegas? Expect the Raiders to come out swinging as they look to set the tone for their campaign in front of a packed Allegiant Stadium crowd.
On the other side, the New Zealand Warriors enter 2025 with high hopes after a tough 2024 season. With big-game stars like Mitch Barnett, Kurt Capewell, Dylan Walker, and the returning Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, they have the firepower to make an impact. But the key to their success lies with powerhouse forward James Fisher-Harris. Reuniting with coach Andrew Webster—who guided him to back-to-back premierships at Penrith—the ‘big Fish’ will be crucial in the Warriors’ push for their first-ever NRL title.
One major challenge for the Warriors will be adjusting to a new halves combination after the retirement of club legend Shaun Johnson. This transition could provide a prime opportunity for the Raiders to exploit any early-season uncertainty in attack.
Raiders halfback Jamal Fogarty, back to full fitness after an injury-shortened 2024, will be eager to take control and guide his team to victory on what will feel like home turf. With rugby league making its second visit to Vegas, the energy will be electric, and the Raiders will be aiming to steal the show once again.
I’m tipping the Canberra Raiders by 8 points.
Penrith Panthers v Cronulla Sharks:
The Penrith Panthers are ready to launch their quest for an incredible fifth-straight NRL title, kicking off the 2025 season in Las Vegas with a blockbuster clash against the Cronulla Sharks at Allegiant Stadium. This high-stakes battle serves as a rematch of last year’s preliminary final, where the Panthers dominated with a 26-6 victory on their way to yet another premiership.
The Sharks have had an entire off-season to dwell on that loss, and they return with unfinished business. Their mission starts on Sunday afternoon, and all eyes will be on star recruit Addin Fonua-Blake, whose explosive presence in the middle will be crucial against Penrith’s elite forward pack.
Despite some major departures; including Jarome Luai, James Fisher-Harris, and Sunia Turuva, the Panthers still boast a star-studded lineup. Nathan Cleary, Liam Martin, and Dylan Edwards have all recovered from off-season surgeries and are set to lead the charge. Golden Boot winner Isaah Yeo will once again captain the reigning premiers, ensuring Penrith’s title defense starts on the right foot.
However, the Panthers will be without Brian To’o, sidelined with a hamstring injury. Rising star Casey McLean steps in after a stunning four-try Test debut for the Kiwis, while Paul Alamoti fills the other wing spot after overcoming an elbow issue. Lindsay Smith replaces Fisher-Harris in the front row, and new faces including Isaiah Papali’i, Daine Laurie, Luron Patea, and Matt Eisenhuth bolster the interchange.
Cronulla heads into 2025 with a revamped lineup and plenty to prove. With Sione Katoa out long-term, Sam Stonestreet gets his shot on the wing after finishing 2024 in red-hot form with seven tries in his last four games. In the forward pack, Fonua-Blake leads a powerful unit featuring Briton Nikora, Teig Wilton, and Cameron McInnes, while Braden Hamlin-Uele and Tom Hazelton provide impact off the bench. Jesse Ramien returns from injury to take his place in the centers, with Siosifa Talakai shifting to the bench.
This Panthers vs Sharks showdown promises fireworks as Penrith aims to keep their dynasty alive and Cronulla looks to shake off last year’s disappointment. However ultimately, I think the experience of the premiers will prove too much to handle.
I’m tipping the Penrith Panthers by 4 points.
There you have it! Those are our tips and predictions for Round 1 (week one) of the NRL for 2025. It looks like the Canberra Raiders and the Penrith Panthers will be leaving Vegas winners, while the Warriors and Sharks may need to look elsewhere on the strip for their jackpot. To make sure you support your team in style this year, make sure to head into Jerseys Megastore! All the latest 2025 gear has landed and is already flying off the shelves. Head in-store or online where our friendly team is waiting to help you find the best fit for you! Jerseys Megastore, for all things footy!
