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The NRL 2025 season opens with a historic double-header featuring Raiders vs Warriors in Las Vegas.

The NRL 2025 season is set to launch with an electrifying double-header in Las Vegas on March 2. The Canberra Raiders will clash with the New Zealand Warriors at Allegiant Stadium, kicking off at 110 AM AEDT. The Raiders are expected to field Kaeo Weekes at fullback, flanked by Xavier Savage and Savellio Tamale on the wings. The halves duo of Ethan Strange and Jamal Fogarty will aim to steer the team, supported by the formidable forward pack led by Josh Papali`i and Joseph Tapine.

For the Warriors, veteran Shaun Johnson returns to partner Luke Metcalf in the halves, while Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad takes the fullback position and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak occupies the wing. Other notable matches in Round 1 include the Sydney Roosters hosting the Brisbane Broncos on March 6, with Roosters captain James Tedesco leading the charge and new recruit Mark Nawaqanitawase making his debut. The Broncos will miss star prop Tom Flegler due to injury, while Jack Bostock`s participation remains uncertain.

In addition, the Melbourne Storm face injury concerns with Ryan Papenhuyzen and Sua Fa`alogo, potentially paving the way for Nick Meaney to start at fullback. The Parramatta Eels retain their star halves pairing of Mitchell Moses and Dylan Brown, while the defending champion Penrith Panthers aim for a historic five-peat with Nathan Cleary and young talent Jack Cole in the halves. The competition promises to be fiercely contested this season.

NRL

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