2023 Summer League Preview

2023 Summer League Preview

If you’re like me you’ve been spending the last few weeks sitting around waiting for the NRL season 2023 to start. Sure, I love the cricket and the tennis isn’t too bad at times but after a South African cricket team whose effort and ability were strangely non-existent and a BBL season which is great but far too long, I’m sure we’re all primed for the footy to start!

It won’t be long and we’ll have the new NRL pre-season challenge to look forward to. It seems a bit of a bizarre concept with the rules and conditions most likely thought of in the shower by Peter V’Landys on the morning of their release.

You can envisage the majority of sides not taking it too seriously but still, us league nuts who’ve been starved of the game we love for far too long will take what we can get! 

Check out the rules here: Weird and whacky rules for new Pre-Season Challenge

I’m a massive Rugby League fan and always have been. It’s a game that captivated me at an early age and despite its changes over the years, my interest has only grown stronger. I must warn you however, that my writing must come with a fairly important disclaimer, I’m a huge Souths supporter… However, the great thing about sport and especially footy is we can all give our opinions and get stuck into each other in a way that you can’t in other parts of life, with respect of course! Please let me know your thoughts for the coming season and tell me where I’m wrong. Bring on the footy!

* Each teams 2023 gains and losses taken from Nrl.com

Brisbane Broncos

2023 gains

Reece Walsh (Warriors), Jesse Arthars (return from loan), Jock Madden (Wests Tigers), Martin Taupau (Sea Eagles).

2023 losses

Brenko Lee (Dolphins), David Mead (retired), Te Maire Martin (Warriors), Ryan James (retired), Tyson Gamble (Knights), Jake Turpin (Roosters), Zac Hosking (Panthers), Tesi Niu (Dolphins).

The Broncos’ 2022 season ultimately ended in disappointment after missing the finals from a seemingly certain position earlier in the year. This would have been devastating for their many fans after having many fantastic wins and looking like they were back to their Brisbane best. They did improve a great deal however, the signing of Rabbitoh great Adam Reynolds proved to be a masterstroke and there’s certainly plenty to look forward to.

Strengths

Looking at the Brisbane squad, it certainly looks very strong. They have some outstanding players in their line up with guys like Herbie Farnworth, Payne Haas, Patrick Carrigan, Selwyn Cobbo, Kotoni Staggs and Thomas Flegler among the best in the competition in their positions on their day. They also have the added bonus that most of these players are still very young. The signing of Reece Walsh from the Warriors is an interesting one. To me, he’s always been a brilliant but very inconsistent player and it will be interesting to see what he brings. This group of talented players are all tied together by their leader Adam Reynolds who was magnificent in his first year and is essential to their success. The club also enjoys unwavering support and will always be difficult to beat at Suncorp Stadium. 

Weaknesses

Whilst no one is doubting their ability the Broncos have shown that they’re not the toughest when it comes to the mental game. Injuries didn’t help them but their capitulation at the end of last season was somewhat legendary. They look to have a bit of an unhealthy reliance on Reynolds when it comes to leadership who can also struggle with injury. It has also been strange to see a couple of players not be entirely flattering when speaking about their coach – Kevin Walters. It could be nothing but it is also unusual and something that you don’t regularly see in footy. The Origin period, as always, will be a challenge for the club given the players that will surely represent their states.

Predicted ladder finish : 9th

Canberra Raiders

2023 gains

Pasami Saulo (Knights), Danny Levi (Huddersfield).

2023 losses

Josh Hodgson (Eels), Adam Elliott (Knights), Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (Warriors), Ryan Sutton (Bulldogs).

After a very slow and frustrating start in 2022, the Raiders finished well to eventually make the semis and defeat Melbourne Storm in week one of the finals. Even though they copped a hammering the next week by the Eels, I think this was a good result for the club. No additions of note for 2023 but their side remains very solid and they’ll be looking to build on their excellent finish to last season.

Strengths

If Canberra can fix their problems with concentration and consistency, I think they can be a contender in 2023. They have a dominating pack of forwards who are almost unstoppable on their day, two exciting halves in Wighton and Forgarty who complement each other nicely and a stack of speedy backs who love putting on points. Canberra stadium is a difficult place to win at and is a place opposition sides hate visiting. The siege mentality the club thrives on , an aspect that coach Ricky Stuart encourages is a definite force. 

Weaknesses

At times last year you could almost set your watch to the times the Raiders blew leads in their games. It happened so often that their fans were no doubt pulling their hair out as yet another big lead was squandered. This was rectified by season end but the damage was done and it was only really the Broncos’ fall that saw them playing finals. This is something that needs to be fixed from Round 1 for them to guarantee success. Coach Stuart has an abrasive style which can get people offside, however, he always seems to get things back on track just when you think the Raiders are about to fall apart. A few player losses of note too, which although are not irreplaceable could be missed at stages in the season.

Predicted ladder finish : 7th

Canterbury- Bankstown Bulldogs

2023 gains

Viliame Kikau (Panthers), Reed Mahoney (Eels), Ryan Sutton (Raiders), Andrew Davey (Sea Eagles), Franklin Pele (Sharks), Hayze Perham (Eels), Fa’amanu Brown (Wests Tigers), Josh Reynolds (Hull FC – train and trial)

2023 losses

Jack Hetherington (Knights), Jeremy Marshall-King (Dolphins), Paul Vaughan (Warrington), Matt Dufty (Warrington), Joe Stimson (Titans), Josh Jackson (retired), Aaron Schoupp (Titans), Ava Seumanufagai (released), Corey Allan (Roosters).

I think there may have been a few NRL fans who have developed a bit of a soft spot for the Dogs since they’ve been planted at the bottom of the table. I think a lot of us were happy to tolerate Canterbury provided they kept losing! This may be about to change though given their very aggressive recruitment and their new coach in the much feted Cameron Ciraldo. Regardless of what happens, you can be assured there’s an army of Doggies fans who can’t wait to ride the wave on their hopeful trek back to the top of the Rugby League tree.

Strengths

It’s no secret that the Bulldogs’ strength is their recruitment. No one else has been as busy as them and they will be pinning all their hopes on it being a big success. Having one of League’s biggest powerbrokers in Phil Gould calling the shots in the background is a huge benefit and something a lot of other battling clubs wish they had. Coach Ciraldo brings a truckload of expectation into the role as he has been waiting patiently for the appropriate time to start his head coaching career despite there always being plenty of interest. He has chosen the Dogs and it will be intriguing to see how it works out, having some structure and professionalism with Gould will help a great deal.

Weaknesses

I don’t think there’s anyone who doesn’t think the Dogs will improve in 2023, but how much is the question. Whilst they have strengthened their squad they still have some holes to fill. There remains some doubt over the halves – Matt Burton seems a superstar but there’s no obvious choice for the halfback position. Apart from Ado-Carr and Kiraz, their backs don’t look too threatening but there may be a few guys waiting in the wings who can surprise. For me, their forwards also look a little thin. It sounds crazy with the recruitment of Mahoney and Kikau but I wonder if Kikau will be as effective outside of the dominant Penrith pack whilst Mahoney, although very solid, doesn’t seem to be as brilliant as when he first hit the scene. They also have a few others who can be superstars on their day but don’t often do it regularly.

Predicted ladder finish : 11th

Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks

2023 gains

Oregon Kaufusi (Eels).

2023 losses

Luke Metcalf (Warriors), Andrew Fifita (retired), Aiden Tolman (retired).

Craig Fitzgibbon certainly inherited a strong squad for his coaching debut and did a fantastic job getting them into the top 4, even if they ultimately left the finals series in straight sets. It was a hugely successful season and would have had the Sharkies faithful singing “Up, Up Cronulla” most Monday mornings at work much to the disdain of any colleagues within earshot. They will be looking to build on this success in 2023 and there’s no reason why they can’t.

Strengths

 I see stability as Cronulla’s biggest strength. They have a very skilful and settled line-up with the only addition being Kaufusi from the Eels who will only enhance their forward depth. They haven’t lost anyone of note either so we can expect more of the same from the Sharks in 2023. I suppose you could mention Lachie Miller who has since signed with the Knights. He looks a decent prospect but was probably never going to displace Will Kennedy. They don’t have as big a support base as some of the other Sydney clubs but they all love getting behind their boys at Shark Park on a Saturday night and as always, they’ll be hard to beat out there. 

Weaknesses

I don’t see too many, they definitely should be contenders again in 2023. The way they exited the semis last year would be a bit of a concern but like the Cowboys, they probably didn’t have the finals experience that other teams already had. This is something they will certainly be looking to improve on though. I suppose, if anything, they lack a bit of star power. They’re a great looking side who work well together but do they have that X-factor player who will do something extra special in a big game?

Predicted ladder finish : 6th

Dolphins

2023 gains

Euan Aitken (Warriors), Jesse Bromwich (Storm), Kenny Bromwich (Storm), Tom Gilbert (Cowboys), Edrick Lee (Knights), Brenko Lee (Broncos), Connelly Lemuelu (Cowboys), Robert Jennings (Panthers), Jamayne Isaako (Titans), Felise Kaufusi (Storm), Jeremy Marshall-King (Bulldogs), Anthony Milford (Knights), Mark Nicholls (Rabbitohs), Kodi Nikorima (Rabbitohs), Sean O’Sullivan (Panthers), Ray Stone (Eels), Isaiya Katoa (Panthers), Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Cowboys), Mason Teague (Panthers), Jarrod Wallace (Titans), Herman Ese’ese (Titans), Poasa Faamausili (Dragons), Tesi Niu (Broncos), Valynce Te Whare, Harrison Graham, Michael Roberts, JJ Collins, Ryan Jackson.

I would love to stick a Redcliffe in there but the new side are simply called the Dolphins which seems to give them a lack of identity in my opinion. Anyway, all eyes will be on Bennett’s new boys and plenty will be hoping they fail. We haven’t had a new side in the NRL since the Titans re-emerged in 2007 so there will be plenty of news and publicity about the new franchise when they finally take the field. 

Strengths

Probably the anticipation of a new team will be their biggest strength as they no doubt will have large quantities of support from a population of people who would be just dying to have a League side to call their own. They have the ultimate master coach in the history of the game in Wayne Bennett – I think at the very least this will guarantee them some level of success. Bennett is simply the best in the business and he will get the most out of his roster. I saw in his time at Souths how much the players love playing for him and having him at the helm will provide the direction that a lot of new clubs don’t ever have and end up struggling as a result. I suppose you could say their recruitment has been somewhat of a success, they have assembled a sound team of footballers who should go well. This could also be a weakness too…

Weaknesses

Although they have a solid-looking first 17 that will up for the fight in the NRL you have to wonder how much depth they have once injuries start to take their toll. Also, the players they have recruited seem to be a little on the old side, particularly in the forwards. Whilst the experience will be a benefit and they will at least match it with most NRL packs, the grind of week in, week out Rugby League could take its toll. The backs and halves also lack a bit of star power, the Dolphins were never able to lock down that star recruit that they desperately craved. A team that is led in the halves by guys like Milford, Nikorima, O’Sullivan and Katoa doesn’t exactly send shivers down your spine as an opposing fan. Penrith were disappointed to lose Katoa so he may prove to be a star but I was a bit disappointed with him in the World Cup given how brilliant most players in the Penrith system are.

Predicted ladder finish : 10th

Gold Coast Titans

2023 gains

Kieran Foran (Sea Eagles), Sam Verrills (Roosters), Joe Stimson (Bulldogs), Aaron Schoupp (Bulldogs), Chris Randall (Knights), Treymain Spry.

2023 losses

Jarrod Wallace (Dolphins), Jamayne Isaako (Dolphins), Corey Thompson (retirement), Herman Ese’ese (Dolphins), Sam Lisone (Leeds), Greg Marzhew (Knights).

After an impressive 2021 season where they scraped into the finals and probably should have progressed further if it wasn’t for an unfortunate final moment, the Titans really plummeted last season. Nothing seemed to go right for coach Holbrook and he’ll be under a lot of pressure from day one of the season. I’m sure the Titans will be looking to achieve a bit of consistency and toughen up their footy after a horror 2022.

Strengths

Unfortunately, I don’t see too many. The exciting team that was really on the up in 2021 disappeared completely last year. If you’re looking for positives though, the side does possess a bunch of young, talented players who show a lot of ability at times, particularly in attack. They seem to be quite good at unearthing new talent each week, guys that can produce some stunning moments but don’t ever do it consistently. The signing of Verrills, I think is a good one and one that the Roosters may rue. Provided they keep him on the field he will provide the direction that they regularly lacked last season. Foran will provide experience and they will be hoping he succeeds but so far he has only ever produced at Manly, every other venture he has made in his long career hasn’t been a success. There’s extra pressure on the club here too given they let Jamal Forgarty go to Canberra at the end of last season.

Weaknesses

I think the Titans’ weakness which is most evident is their lack of leadership and experience. They had guys who tried to take charge last season but it never really worked. This is surely a massive contributor to their deplorable defence which featured almost weekly for the Gold Coast side. When you watched the Titans last year it was reminiscent of the old under 20’s Toyota Cup that they used to have, where tries were scored at will as defence was optional at best. I’m sure the club are well aware of this and will be doing their best to address this so they can give their fans a bit more to cheer about in 2023.

Predicted ladder finish : 17th

Many-Warringah Sea-Eagles

2023 gains

Kelma Tuilagi (Wests Tigers), Ben Condon (Cowboys), Cooper Johns (Storm – train and trial), Nathaniel Roache (Eels – train and trial).

2023 losses

Kieran Foran (Titans), Dylan Walker (Warriors), Martin Taupau (Broncos), Andrew Davey (Bulldogs).

Losing Tom Trbojevic early in 2022 put a dagger through any chances they had and even though they still performed admirably at times, they never really recovered. This was on top of the “Pride” jersey scandal which split their playing group late in the season, it really was a season to forget for Manly fans.

Strengths

Manly are a side who often over-achieve, even when you think they are on the decline they never seem to bottom out completely like other clubs do. They may need to call on all of the powers of this phenomenon in 2023. Manly have an absolute star in Tommy Turbo, if they are able to keep him on the field that will be enough to ensure they win a good share of games. Trbojevic has the skills to destroy teams single-handedly even if the better sides are usually able to keep him in check. His older brother is a tough forward and despite the criticism he receives Daly Cherry-Evans is a topline half. Josh Schuster is also an exciting player and is apparently primed for a big year partnering Cherry-Evans. These guys and a few others are enough to build a team around so best-case scenario could see them doing quite well.

Weaknesses

Quite a few things worry me about the 2023 Sea-Eagles. First of all, their squad depth. On top of their obvious injury concerns and losing a couple of handy players they haven’t really recruited too heavily. Anthony Seibold also takes the reins which would be surprising to many. Things obviously fell apart with Des Hasler but I thought he did a decent job under the circumstances at a club which looks hard to be in charge of. Siebold arrives after a disaster at the Broncos and a stint at the equally unimpressive Knights as assistant coach. Sure, he did well at Souths in 2018 but the Rabbitohs at the time were an experienced and talented roster who probably were just looking for a change in direction after Michael Maguire. I also have a lot of doubts about their commitment as a team, that whole “Pride” jersey saga was something they never got over and that’s how things ended in 2022. While other teams’ players look like they would die for each other and their combined success, you couldn’t really say the same about Manly.

Predicted ladder finish : 15th

Melbourne Storm

2023 gains

Eliesa Katoa (Warriors), Tariq Sims (Dragons), Joe Chan (Catalans), Aaron Pene (Warriors).

2023 losses

Felise Kaufusi (Dolphins), Brandon Smith (Roosters), Jesse Bromwich (Dolphins), Kenny Bromwich (Dolphins), David Nofoaluma (Wests Tigers – return from loan), Cooper Johns (Sea Eagles).

The Storm have had their biggest clean-out in years when it comes to players and they will certainly be a new-look side in 2023, particularly in the forwards. I think many are predicting a bit of a slide from this powerhouse team but I don’t necessarily think this will be the case. They had no luck with injury in season 2022 but they would still be disappointed about their early exit in last year’s semis.

Strengths

When you think of the Melbourne Storm, the word ‘strength’ is something that is synonymous with the club. They have been on top of the league now for so long you can’t really think of a time they haven’t been successful. Despite their losses in the playing group this year, they still possess one of the most talented spines in the game. You can easily build a side around guys like Papenhuyezen, Munster, Hughes and Grant and they will continue to do this. They also have a master coach in Craig Bellamy who gets the very best out of any player who dons the purple strip. Look for massive seasons from the fringe forwards they have signed and don’t forget they have Christian Welsh back from injury as well. Of course, they’re almost unbeatable at home too(I should know as Souths have never beaten them down there, maybe this year…)

Weaknesses

The most evident weakness you can see with 2023 Storm is the massive shift in the playing group. The club has lost a lot of experience and toughness which will be hard to replace. I imagine this will have some effect, maybe a huge one? But there’s probably an argument to say the side needed a bit of a refresh and this a chance to bring in some new recruits and some gun youngsters of which I’m sure they have a few. Opposition teams will obviously see their forwards as a possible Achilles heel in 2023 and will look to get over the top of them by bashing them off the park.

Predicted ladder finish : 3rd

Newcastle Knights

2023 gains

Adam Elliott (Raiders), Jack Hetherington (Bulldogs), Tyson Gamble (Broncos), Jackson Hastings (Wests Tigers), Greg Marzhew (Titans).

2023 losses

Mitchell Barnett (Warriors), Edrick Lee (Dolphins), Jirah Momoisea (Eels), Tex Hoy (Hull FC), Anthony Milford (Dolphins), Sauaso Sue (Hull KR), Pasami Saulo (Raiders), Jake Clifford (Hull FC), David Klemmer (Wests Tigers), Chris Randall (Titans).

 I thought Newcastle were one of the most disappointing teams of 2022. For a side which has so much support and a great history of producing against the odds they didn’t offer too much opposition to the rest of the competition. The team seemed directionless at times which wasn’t helped by coach Adam O’Brien’s press conference where he looked completely lost for solutions. It can’t have inspired much confidence among the playing group. They will be looking to improve greatly in 2023.

Strengths

The obvious strength the Newcastle club has over everyone else is the determined support  they enjoy across their district. The Knights’ supporters absolutely love them and even though they copped some vicious hammerings last season, the fans still turned up. The Knights need to start rewarding these awesome fans with some hard-nosed footy. To partner the improved toughness the fans want, I think the club has actually recruited quite well. Jackson Hastings will provide direction, Adam Elliot is a tough forward who the Raiders will miss, Greg Marzhew is a damaging winger that I’m surprised the Titans let go and Lachie Miller showed promise in the few games he played for the Sharks. The Miller recruitment allows Ponga to move to the halves, which may not be his best position but could at least stop him from getting knocked out each week.

Weaknesses

The squad looks better overall and without injury they should improve. I have a bit of a question mark about their forward strength. Klemmer and Barnett and not superstars but do offer toughness so they could be missed. Frizzell seems to be coming to the end of his career and can pick up an injury whilst a lot of their young forwards haven’t had too much impact, I suppose it would have been a difficult environment to succeed in though. Time for the Saifiti brothers to really stand up. Coach O’Brien never fills me with hope for the Knights, talking about his glory days as assistant coach at the Roosters and the Storm and making excuses never helps the difficult situation the Knights face. He has a few more players to work with this year so we’ll see what happens.

Predicted ladder finish : 14th

North Queensland Cowboys

2023 gains

Jack Gosiewski (Dragons), James Tamou (Wests Tigers), Gehamat Shibasaki (Mackay Cutters).

2023 losses

Connelly Lemuelu (Dolphins), Tom Gilbert (Dolphins), Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow (Dolphins), Ben Condon (Sea Eagles).

The Cowboys were the real surprise packets of the 2022 season, finishing in the top 4 when most, including myself, thought they’d finish somewhere near the bottom. Everything clicked for the team that had so far looked pretty uninspiring up till last season. A mix of Cowboys regulars, well-identified signings and youngsters who hit their straps made a perfect blend for last year’s Cowboys. I can’t see why this year will be any different.

Strengths

Across the park, the Cowboys look a very well-balanced side. As mentioned before they have a great mix of youth and experience which make them a difficult opposition side to face, particularly at their home stadium. They love to put on points and can do so in quick time, racking up big scores before the other team has even noticed what’s going on. They enjoy amazing home support where people apparently travel for miles just to see them play. The Cowboys also seem a very stable and committed side with one of the game’s best young coaches at the helm in Todd Payten.

Weaknesses

There aren’t too many negatives you can find about this club and line-up. They look to have most things in their favour and they should remain on the up. However, if you’re looking for things they could improve on, it would be their record outside of North Queensland. I don’t have the stats but I’m certain their record in Sydney isn’t as good as it could be. The fact they were eliminated in straight sets out of last year’s semis would be a bit concerning, but like the Sharkies it was their first shot with their current playing group so they had excuses. After their loss to the Eels in the major semi, it almost looked as if they were just happy to be there and weren’t that disappointed to miss out. They’ll probably want to develop more of a killer instinct to move to the next level.

Predicted ladder finish : 5th

Parramatta Eels

2023 gains

Josh Hodgson (Raiders), J’maine Hopgood (Panthers), Jirah Momoisea (Knights), Jack Murchie (Warriors), Matt Doorey (Bulldogs), Daejarn Asi (Warriors)

2023 losses

Marata Niukore (Warriors), Isaiah Papali’i (Wests Tigers), Oregon Kaufusi (Sharks), Reed Mahoney (Bulldogs), Ray Stone (Dolphins), Tom Opacic (Hull KR), Hayze Perham (Bulldogs), David Hollis (unsigned).

Being a Souths fan raised in the Parramatta district, the Eels side has always been one that I’ve been very aware of. I’ve never supported them of course but most of my friends do and I suppose I don’t mind if they do well, provided they lose to Souths. The Eels did very well last year to make the Grand Final last year. They were ultimately out-classed by the unstoppable Panthers but they probably deserved to be there as the 2nd best side even though at times they were quite inconsistent. The Eels now enter a bit of a new period with a few of their better players moving on, it will be interesting to see what transpires.

Strengths

As one of Sydney’s most popular sides, the Eels will always enjoy strong support when they’re playing well. They have an excellent stadium which is always well-attended and they usually get the result when they’re at home. Sure, they’ve lost a few important players but they still have a very decent base in Gutherson, Brown and Moses playing in important spine positions as well as a coach in Brad Arthur who is often criticised but does a good job. The Mahoney loss could be costly but they have signed Josh Hodgson to replace him. It’s a gamble given his injury history but remember how good he was for the Raiders a few years ago? He will also provide leadership, something I think the Eels have always lacked. After a win at the Eels, it always seems like school photo day with Moses, Gutherson and the like hamming it up for the cameras. Hodgson will get them away from that. The guys they’ve signed in the forwards will get the opportunity that they couldn’t get at their old clubs and may thrive because of this, Hopgood from Penrith is one that League commentators keep talking up.

Weaknesses

The obvious weakness that everyone will point to when it comes to Parramatta is the players they’ve lost. Whilst I don’t think this is a terrible thing, I could also be very wrong and it could be a disaster. The Mitchell Moses contract drama wouldn’t be easy for the club to manage as it seems there’s plenty of other clubs willing to throw bucket loads of cash at him. This would be unsettling for the playing group, so it would be good if they get that sorted out quickly. The inconsistencies that the Eels suffer from would be something they would want to eliminate – the team can appear to be world beaters one week knocking over Storm or Penrith but then lose to Tigers or Bulldogs the next. Also, if Hodgson does go down, who replaces him?

Predicted ladder finish : 8th

Penrith Panthers

2023 gains

Luke Garner (Wests Tigers), Tyrone Peachey (Wests Tigers), Zac Hosking (Broncos), Jack Cogger (Huddersfield).

2023 losses

Apisai Koroisau (Wests Tigers), Viliame Kikau (Bulldogs), Isaiya Katoa (Dolphins), Robert Jennings (Dolphins), J’maine Hopgood (Eels), Sean O’Sullivan (Dolphins), Charlie Staines (Wests Tigers), Christian Crichton (unsigned).

The Penrith Panthers juggernaut powered on in 2022 destroying all in their path on the way to another premiership. They can add this to their 2021 premiership as well the achievement of ruining “Hell’s Bells” by AC/DC as a perfectly good rock song for supporters of the 16 other clubs. If anything, Penrith improved in 2022, even losing Cleary for a long stretch couldn’t stop their winning ways. They’re not easy to like as an opposition fan but you’ve got to admit they’re a special side who will be very hard to stop again.

Strengths

Where do you start? They are lethal across their park with their fast, powerful backs and their massive forwards smashing through opposition sides with their constant positive momentum. This is controlled of course by the master half Cleary who will probably go down as one of the greats. Watching Penrith live you see how relentless they are, they just never stop, grinding you down and waiting till you make a mistake as they of course rarely make any themselves. Then the panic plays set in, they pounce and it’s all over. Love them or hate them, they’re an excellent footy side. Every player knows exactly what their role is and performs it expertly.

Weaknesses

I’m not sure if they had any previously but it will be interesting to see how they cope with the players that have left. It didn’t affect them at all last season with Burton and Capewell being easily replaced. Kikau and Koroisau may be a different story though. You can add Crichton to the list too for 2024. They will miss Kikau, he’s an especially damaging running of the ball and a smart link player for their backs but Garner isn’t a bad replacement who will enjoy being in a winning environment. Koroisau, however, I think will be a great loss as he’s one of the best dummy-halves in the game. The direction he provided the Panthers won’t be simple to replicate with their back-up hookers in Kenny and Luke. The general attitude of the Penrith club is a bit of a worry for me. I suppose when you’re as good as they are you can do what you like but things can turn in this game pretty quickly and suddenly you’re no longer no.1.

Predicted ladder finish : 1st

St George-Illawarra Dragons

2023 gains

Zane Musgrove (Wests Tigers), Nick Lui-Toso (Northern Pride), Jacob Liddle (Wests Tigers), Ben Murdoch-Masila (Warriors).

2023 losses

Jackson Ford (Warriors), George Burgess (retired), Poasa Faamausili (Dolphins), Jack Gosiewski (Cowboys), Andrew McCullough (retired), Tariq Sims (Storm), Josh McGuire (Warrington).

From an outsider looking in to the St George-Illawarra club, they see like an organisation who are long distance from their best. It’s a strange situation given the support they have, they’re certainly one of the more popular Sydney teams but I think a lot of the fans have turned away because of their struggles.

Strengths

The Dragons roster is a satisfactory one but I wouldn’t say it’s strong when compared to other sides. They have a good enough bunch of players to win a reasonable amount of games but you’d be surprised if they did much more than that. On their day they can have some big wins and are capable of pulling off an upset with their grinding style which features when they’re focused. In Ben Hunt, they have one of the better players in the NRL who can be a match winner at times.

Weaknesses

I find the whole retention and recruitment situation at the Dragons a little strange. I don’t think they encourage their younger players well as they often seem reluctant to give them opportunities. St George-Illawara also tend to recruit experienced players who are at the back end of their career – players who can certainly do a job but are often past the best. Anthony Griffin seemed a strange appointment as coach and I don’t know if he’s ever looked comfortable in the job. It seems he has a bit of a history of falling out with players, whether this is true or not they never seem like the happiest club. Losing Talatau Amone, one of their more talented younger players, for a space while he deals with a criminal charge will be another challenge for the club.

Predicted ladder finish : 13th

South Sydney Rabbitohs

2023 losses

Mark Nicholls (Dolphins), Kodi Nikorima (Dolphins), Jaxson Paulo (Roosters).

I’m definitely the wrong person to be writing a preview about the Rabbitohs. It’s all about the club’s success as far as I’m concerned so my bias can be incredible. Anyway, 2022 was a good year for the Bunnies as they had to deal with a lot of changes and a few setbacks but they still managed to have an impressive season. After losing club legend Adam Reynolds, Origin centre Dane Gagai and supercoach Wayne Bennett everyone expected Souths to slide. However, they kept on improving to be one win off a grand final, falling once again to Penrith.

Strengths

The stability of the Rabbitohs is something to be admired. Since being privatised, the club has built itself into one of the stronger clubs in the NRL – a club that players want to play for, has money and develops their juniors. The fact that coach Jason Demetriou has resisted signing any new players for 2023 shows the faith he has in the current group which must give them confidence. Souths have one of the best spines in the game with Mitchell, Walker, Cook and the improving Ilias. Together with an underrated forward pack and a hard-working backline, Souths should be strong contenders again.

Weaknesses

Although a top side, Souths have to deal with the fact that they have lost a lot of preliminary finals. There’s been excuses at times but still it’s not a great record and something the club will be desperate to rectify. The fact Souths have also put their faith in Cook and Walker for the next few seasons may raise a few questions. These guys are durable players and are among the best in their positions but they are both getting older. The loss of Mark Nicholls can’t also be underestimated, he is a reliable, tireless prop who will be hard to replace and the younger forwards will now have to step up.

Predicted ladder finish : 2nd

Sydney Roosters

2023 gains

Brandon Smith (Storm), Jake Turpin (Broncos), Jaxson Paulo (Rabbitohs), Corey Allan (Bulldogs).

2023 losses

Siosiua Taukeiaho (Catalans Dragons), Daniel Suluka-Fifita (Rabbitohs), Oliver Gildart (Dolphins), Sam Verrills (Titans), Renouf Atoni (Wakefield).

Rugby League powerhouses, the Sydney Roosters, will be looking to get back to the peak of the NRL in 2023 after a couple of seasons which saw them finish not as high as they would have liked. Injuries have been a massive problem over that period and if they can have more luck in that department there’s no doubt they’ll contend.

Strengths

There’s plenty to talk about when it comes to strengths in the Sydney Roosters. They have three international fullbacks in their lineup with superstars Tedesco and Manu and the emerging star Sua’ali’li. Dangerous halves in Walker and Keary who haven’t had a lot of time together but started to look good when they finally got the chance in 2022. They also have a group of powerful, aggressive forwards who love to push the rules and intimidate opposition packs. There’s a couple of solid recruits there in Turpin and Paulo but the massive signing is that of Brandon Smith from the Storm. He will surely add to what already is a leading pack. All signs point to a big year for the Roosters.

Weaknesses

When you look at any of the top sides there isn’t too much to write about when it comes to weak links and the Roosters are no different. A few points worth raising is the fact that they do have those three megastar backs who all play fullback for their country. Now, you’re never going to displace Tedesco but where does that leave Manu and Sua’al’li? Manu is brilliant for New Zealand but seems happy at the Roosters and will most likely stay at centre but I’m not sure if the younger Joseph will be content to stay out on the wing for too much longer. Brandon Smith, although a top signing, will be a starting hooker. This will be fine but it seemed to me that he was becoming more of a middle forward in his last couple of seasons at The Storm. They may miss Verrills more than they thought. Roosters fans will strongly disagree with me but I think they are a team you can get over the top of in the forwards.

Predicted ladder finish : 4th

Warriors

2023 gains

Marata Niukore (Eels), Luke Metcalf (Sharks), Dylan Walker (Sea Eagles), Mitchell Barnett (Knights), Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (Raiders), Te Maire Martin (Broncos), Jackson Ford (Dragons), Brayden Wiliame (Perpignan).

2023 losses

Euan Aitken (Dolphins), Reece Walsh (Broncos), Eliesa Katoa (Storm), Aaron Pene (Storm), Jack Murchie (Eels), Ben Murdoch-Masila (Dragons), Taniela Otukolo (released), Otukinekina Kepu (released).

It’s been a difficult period for the sole New Zealand team in the NRL over the past few seasons as they were effectively locked out of their country with the ugly emergence of COVID. They finally got back home at the end of last season. With conditions being more or less normal now, it’s time to start registering some wins and achieving some success for their long-suffering fans.

Strengths

When you look across the playing squad of the Warriors, it certainly doesn’t look as strong as a lot of the others. However, there’s enough talent there to think that could string some wins together, particularly with their huge home advantage. Tickets apparently are on sale for Warriors home games and they are already selling well so the team should enjoy some huge support. They have a whole country behind them so if they can somehow get things going in the right direction they will be hard to stop.

Weaknesses

Unfortunately for the Warriors, there are quite a few weaknesses to discuss. It’s not always their fault but they do lack a lot of stability. They seem to have an endless conveyor belt of players and coaches coming and going from the club which doesn’t promote cohesiveness. The new coach, Andrew Webster, needs to be given every chance to build his team and patience will be required. For a team that has its own country, the Warriors do lack a lot of identity. I think they need to focus on making sure they have the best Kiwi players and the best young Kiwi players in their squad. For too long, the best New Zealand players have been and still are at other NRL clubs. It was a telling sign that at the recent World Cup there were hardly any Warriors players representing the national side. Depth will most likely also be a problem for the Warriors at times this year, looking at the squad there doesn’t seem to be too much there once injuries inevitably hit.

Predicted ladder finish : 16th

Wests Tigers

2023 gains

Apisai Koroisau (Panthers), Isaiah Papali’i (Eels), Triston Reilly (rugby union, Waratahs), David Nofoaluma (return from loan), Charlie Staines (Panthers), David Klemmer (Knights), John Bateman (Wigan), Will Smith (Hull FC).

2023 losses

Luke Garner (Panthers), Kelma Tuilagi (Sea Eagles), Zane Musgrove (Dragons), Jock Madden (Broncos), James Tamou (Cowboys), Oliver Gildart (Dolphins), Jacob Liddle (Dragons), Tyrone Peachey (Panthers), Jackson Hastings (Knights).

One of Sydney’s most popular teams – Wests Tigers have been struggling for quite a while but things really hit rock bottom in 2022. They suffered some shocking losses where opposition teams seemed to run through the Tigers’ defence at will. It must have been very tough for their fans. I suppose though, once you hit the extreme depths of the NRL there’s usually only one way you can go and that’s up. The club has made a few positive changes for 2023 which should give their supporters a lot more hope for the coming season.

Strengths

The word strength is not something you think of when you think of the Wests Tigers but they do have some good things going for them. Out of all the footy fans I know, the Tigers are one of the more popularly supported teams. If they ever do get back to the top of the table, the support will be massive. Their recruitment has been very good for season 2023. Apart from Canterbury, they were probably one of the more aggressive movers in the player market. Their forwards in particular have been enhanced with guys like Koroisa, Papali’i, Klemmer and Bateman providing direction, leadership and toughness. Even journeyman Will Smith will be a useful addition. Having  club legend Tim Sheens back at the helm and having Tigers great Benji Marshall as his understudy will no doubt give them a real boost. Other Wests coaches have tried their best but these two should have an impact and will get respect from the players.

Weaknesses

There’s no doubt the Tigers pack will be improved but I have a few concerns about their backs and halves. There’s not really anyone there who brings fear to an opposition fan, just a lot of players who are sometimes good but often not. Tigers fans will be hoping ex-Penrith fringe players Laurie, Staines and Naden really hit their straps this year as it’s pretty safe to say they haven’t yet. For better or worse, the Tigers have decided to go with Luke Brooks as their starting half with presumably Adam Doueihi to partner him. Whilst not the worst pairing you’ll find you’d be hoping for some massive improvements from the pair for Tigers fans. Brooks’ struggles with form are well known whilst Doueihi is a real trier but can take poor options. 

Predicted ladder finish : 12th

There you go footy fans – I hope you have enjoyed my Summer League Preview! Please leave any feedback in the comments section. Not long to wait now.

2023 Summer League Preview

By Greg Allan for Bunnies TV.