The 2025 NRL Pre-Season Challenge saw the Canberra Raiders face off against the Cronulla Sharks at GIO Stadium on Thursday, February 13. The match, serving as preparation for the upcoming season, ended with the Sharks decisively defeating the Raiders 36-10.
With both teams eager to assert their capabilities before heading to Las Vegas for the season openers, the Raiders started strong, showcasing promising plays. Star recruit Kaeo Weekes demonstrated exceptional skill as he dashed 60 meters from his own line to assist Ethan Strange, who touched down for the opening try. Raiders' Jamal Fogarty successfully converted to give his team an early 6-0 lead.
But the Sharks quickly leveled the contest when Nicho Hynes scored off Ronaldo Mulitalo's assist. A pinpoint cut-out pass by Hynes put Samuel Stonestreet clear to score, bringing the Sharks to 12-10 lead at halftime. Hynes’ contributions didn’t just end with scoring; his strategic playmaking had already shown how invaluable he could be to the team.
“That’s what you would expect from a world-class half,” remarked Steve Roach during the match coverage, underscoring Hynes’ phenomenal performance.
Sharks’ Addin Fonua-Blake, making his debut, turned the game around with his physical presence and assertive follow-through. He barged over easily from close range, contributing to the Sharks’ 36-point total. Post-game discussions highlighted the unforeseen errors from the Raiders, as they seemed to fall apart, failing to maintain their initial momentum. “Canberra are their own worst enemy... they have come undone here,” noted Andrew Voss, emphasizing the struggle the Raiders faced throughout the game.
After halftime, mistakes continued to plague the Raiders, allowing the Sharks to capitalize on errant plays. Braydon Trindall seized the opportunity to score following another Raiders mishap. Jesse Ramien extended his team’s lead with another try following sloppy ball handling from the Canberra side. By the time Tuku Hau Tapuha finished the scoring with another try, the Sharks had demoralized their opponents, showcasing their preparedness for the season.
Despite the setback, there were bright spots for the Raiders, especially with Kaeo Weekes and Ethan Strange displaying youthful vigor and talent. Coach Ricky Stuart, aware of the challenges, seemed optimistic as he discussed player performance and highlighted the areas needing improvement before the beginning of the regular season.
Concerns over Hynes’ injury during the match proved unfounded. Post-match commentators confirmed, “Breathe easy Sharks fans, just went and checked on Nicho Hynes and he was scheduled to come off at the time anyway,” as reported by Jake Duke. The icing of Hynes’ hamstring appeared merely precautionary, ensuring he remains fit for the upcoming campaign.
This pre-season clash not only tested the teams but also provided insight for fans eager to see the capabilities of both squads against each other. The Sharks are clearly ramping up their gameplay with the addition of strong recruits and seasoned players seamlessly integrating their strategies.
The Raiders took valuable lessons from this defeat, primarily seen as part of their progress as they work to gel before traveling to Las Vegas. Heading back to the training ground, they will have time to refine their tactics and build on their foundation set during the match.
At the end of this high-octane pre-season encounter, the Sharks emerged victorious, underlining their preparedness for the main event, where both fan bases look forward to the season opener.