The 2025 NRL Pre-Season Challenge is just around the corner, and excitement is building for both players and fans alike. Kicking off the tournament, the Cronulla Sharks are set to host the New Zealand Warriors on February 7, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exhilarating three-week showcase of rugby league action.
Last weekend, the St George Illawarra Dragons prepared for their season opener by welcoming the Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles to Netstrata Jubilee Stadium for a scrimmage. Under perfect weather conditions, with the sun shining brightly over Kogarah, both teams seized the opportunity to fine-tune their strategies and build chemistry on the field.
Dragons co-captains Clint Gutherson and Damien Cook led their squad, working with new recruits such as Valentine Holmes and Emre Guler, alongside promising young players like Loko Pasifiki Tonga and Finau Latu. Dragons assistant coach Ryan Carr praised the benefit of the session, noting, "It was really good for the boys to go through a bit of run-through here at Kogarah. Both teams get a fair bit out of it." The match simulated real game scenarios, enabling players to showcase their skills and implement strategies honed during the preseason.
Meanwhile, the Warriors aim to make their mark with new marquee signing James Fisher-Harris, who joined the team this offseason from the Penrith Panthers. The Warriors' lineup, which includes big names such as Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, has been crafted to compete at the highest level as they take part in the Pre-Season Challenge.
During this tournament, all 17 NRL clubs will vie for the $100,000 grand prize, with each team playing two matches. Points will be awarded based on match outcomes and bonus points will be available for achieving specific benchmarks, such as scoring five or more tries. This competitive format not only ignites rivalries but also offers teams the chance to implement their game plans and refine their squad depth as they work toward the regular season.
Expectations for 2025 are high, particularly for the defending champions, the Penrith Panthers. They will kick off their campaign against the Canberra Raiders, and following the successful run through the previous season, it’s clear their aim is to maintain momentum. With the NRL kicking off its new season with events being held at Allegiant Stadium, Las Vegas, anticipation continues to build.
Fans and followers of the league can catch all the action right from their living rooms, as Fox League will broadcast every match of the Pre-Season Challenge live. For those wanting to enjoy the games on-the-go, streaming options are available on Kayo Sports and Foxtel.
Returning to the Dragons, their first official Pre-Season Challenge match is set against the Roosters at Kogarah, offering fans incredible value as it leads to what promises to be filled with thrilling contests. Tickets for this electrifying double-header, which features the Bulldogs facing off against the Wests Tigers as well, are available for purchase.
Every other match this month is sure to be just as riveting. From fans witnessing sibling rivalry when twins Niwhai and Hohepa Puru leap onto the field together for the Sharks against the Warriors, to watching the new recruits adjust to their teams, the Pre-Season Challenge offers both excitement and prospect.
With teams starting their 2025 preparations and getting valuable game time, coaches are eager to analyse players, assess formations, and test out strategies. This period of player evaluation will be particularly relevant for clubs trying to integrate new signings as they prepare for the long road leading to the finals.
For example, the Sharks have chosen to rest key players for their encounter with the Warriors, focusing instead on building cohesion among those now part of their talent pool. It’s expected head coach Craig Fitzgibbon will utilize his full roster to develop match fitness and instill competitive spirit as the squad gears up for the new season.
Likewise, the Ravens will also look for optimal line-up combinations, particularly replacing departed players with substantial signings like Hame Fa’anunu and Joseph Suaalii.
Across the league, teams are reinforcing their rosters with not just high-profile signings but also cultivating their own lower-grade stars. The synergy created within teams during these preparatory matches offers tremendous insight for coaches and fans alike—and it opens doors for younger talents to shine.
Overall, supporters are encouraged to engage with the teams early, whether it’s picking up the Red V Membership to guarantee seats for key games or taking advantage of the exciting match-up rhythms throughout the challenge. This season promises to blend not just seasoned players but also fresh talents aiming to secure their positions and showcase their skills.
With just days to go until the opening match, there’s plenty of anticipation surrounding the NRL Pre-Season Challenge. The excitement this tournament instills provides not just entertainment for fans but also offers every participating club the chance to navigate their preparation effectively.