The third round of the 2025 National Rugby League (NRL) season is shaping up to be a historic one, packed with rivalries and ambition. One of the highlights is the much-anticipated rematch between the Melbourne Storm and the Penrith Panthers, taking place on Thursday, March 20, at AAMI Park in Melbourne. This encounter marks the Storm's chance to avenge their painful loss to the Panthers during the 2024 Grand Final.
Coming off a bye, the Storm is eager to hit the ground running, boasting a full-strength squad poised to inflict pain on their rivals. Last year’s champions, the Panthers, however, are looking to bounce back after a shocking loss to the Roosters in Round 2. Coach Craig Bellamy expressed confidence in his players ahead of the match, noting, "We are coming back with full force," showing that they mean business this time.
But that’s not the only fixture getting fans buzzing! On the following night, Friday, March 21, the Brisbane Broncos will host the North Queensland Cowboys at Suncorp Stadium. The matchup promises a rollercoaster of emotion as these two teams clash, reigniting the long-standing rivalry that became enshrined in NRL folklore during their epic 2015 Grand Final encounter. Broncos veteran and 2015 Grand Final survivor Ben Hunt aims to leave his mark as his team seeks to keep their momentum rising.
The weekend matches continue with the Saturday showdown featuring the Canterbury Bulldogs against the Parramatta Eels. The Bulldogs, led by NSW State of Origin star Stephen Crichton, have started the season undefeated, while the Eels are desperately looking for their first win after suffering two heavy defeats. Fans can expect an incredible atmosphere as these rivals take to the field.
Adding more intensity to the weekend, the New Zealand Warriors defied the odds on Friday night, achieving a stunning 14-6 victory over the Sydney Roosters in Auckland. This triumph holds a special significance as it marks the end of an eight-game losing streak against the Roosters dating back to March 2018. Despite losing champion outside back Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to a hamstring injury during the game, the Warriors proved their mettle, rallying from a half-time deficit of 6-4 to secure the win.
Commentating on the games will be a star-studded lineup including Rugby League Immortal Andrew Johns and premiership winners Cameron Smith and Billy Slater. Their insights and analysis along with expert commentary will provide viewers an in-depth understanding of the gameplay. Host James Bracey will guide fans through the action, with additional commentary from celebrated players and coaches who have collectively amassed 52 Grand Final appearances.
In terms of broadcasts, fans won’t miss a beat. All Storm home games in 2025 are available for free on Channel 9 and streaming via 9Now, ensuring that every match can be enjoyed live without cost. Key fixtures such as the 100% Footy show will air at 9 PM on March 24, providing a comprehensive analysis of the week’s highlights and discussing ongoing issues in rugby league.
The NRL’s digital content this week also features engaging series such as “The Manly Way,” chronicling the behind-the-scenes journey of the Manly Sea Eagles, and “Keep Moving Forward,” highlighting Tino Fa'asuamaleaui's inspirational recovery story. Both series are available for streaming on 9Now, adding to the viewing options for fans.
As the teams gear up for Round 3, the excitement in the air is palpable. With rivalries rekindled and performances on display, NRL fans are undoubtedly in for a thrilling weekend. Whether they are cheering for the Storm, Panthers, Broncos, Cowboys, Warriors, or any of the other teams, 2025 promises to be an unforgettable season.
