NRL Finals Week One Team Lists: Star Players Return From Injury Across Multiple Clubs
As the opening week of the finals arrives, the Cronulla Sharks and New Zealand Warriors are set to bring key players back from injury.Watch every game of every round of the Premiership Season LIVE with no ad-breaks during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports | New to Kayo?Join now and get your first month for just $1.In another boost, an Origin player is poised for a long-awaited comeback despite earlier doubts over whether he would feature again this yearWHAT’S GAMBLING REALLY COSTING YOU? Set a deposit limit. For Free and confidential support call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.Check out the complete NRL Team Lists ahead of finals week one.
South Sydney Rabbitohs and Newcastle Knights Squad Updates
The South Sydney Rabbitohs head into their elimination clash at Allianz Stadium with an almost fully fit squad, according to reporting from nine.com.au. Coach Wayne Bennett welcomes back Tallis Duncan from hamstring tightness, slotting him straight into the starting back-row. This shift pushes Adam Elliott to the interchange bench, while Euan Aitken is sidelined for the remainder of the year due to a scapula injury. In the backline, Matthew Dufty takes over the starting fullback role from Jye Gray.
The Newcastle Knights face a mixed personnel ledger for the same fixture. According to team lists, the club regains Dominic Young and Tyson Frizell from suspension alongside Phoenix Crossland from a knee injury. However, the club suffers a major blow in the forwards, missing Jacob Saifiti to suspension and Trey Mooney to a season-ending shoulder injury sustained before the finals. Young sensation Cody Hopwood steps into the front-row to cover Mooney’s absence, while Francis Manuleleua has been cleared to play despite dealing with a dislocated elbow.
New Zealand Warriors Welcome Back Jackson Ford Against the Dolphins
At Go Media Stadium, the New Zealand Warriors receive a major boost with the return of early 2026 Dally M Medal favourite Jackson Ford from a pectoral injury, according to team announcements. Named on the extended bench, Ford makes his first appearance since Round 16. Leka Halasima returns from an ankle injury to take a spot in the centres, while Wayde Egan and Kurt Capewell return after being rested in the final round of the regular season. Winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak remains out with a collarbone injury but is expected to return for the following match. The Dolphins enter the fixture at full strength, welcoming back Selwyn Cobbo from an ankle injury, Kulikefu Finefeuiaki from a knee injury, and Kodi Nikorima from a hamstring issue after they missed the previous round.
Cronulla Sharks and North Queensland Cowboys Clash at Allianz Stadium
The Cronulla Sharks restore key components of their spine for their matchup against the North Queensland Cowboys, featuring the return of five-eighth Braydon Trindall from a shoulder injury. Blayke Brailey, KL Iro, and Teig Wilton also rejoin the side after being rested last week. Coach Craig Fitzgibbon selected Riley Jones to start in the centres. Across the field, the Cowboys welcome back Griffin Neame from a toe injury, Jeremiah Nanai from a knee issue, and Zac Laybutt from a concussion protocol for their elimination final.
Penrith Panthers and Sydney Roosters Qualifying Final Lineups
Penrith Panthers co-captain Isaah Yeo returns to the starting side following a pectoral injury in his second game back, shifting Lindsay Smith to the front-row and Liam Henry to the bench. Scott Sorensen also returns from a calf injury to take a place on the interchange bench. The Sydney Roosters bring back a wave of rested stars, including James Tedesco, Daly Cherry-Evans, and Lindsay Collins, alongside NSW Blues forward Victor Radley returning from a concussion. Back-rower Angus Crichton is named on the interchange bench after recovering from a foot injury.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the first week of the 2026 NRL finals begin?
The opening week of the finals kicks off on Friday, September 11, with the South Sydney Rabbitohs facing the Newcastle Knights.
Which star players are returning for the Warriors?
The Warriors welcome back Jackson Ford from a pectoral injury, alongside Leka Halasima, Wayde Egan, and Kurt Capewell.
Where can fans watch the finals matches?
Every game of every round of the Premiership Season is broadcast live with no ad-breaks during play on Fox League, available via Kayo Sports.
Join the Conversation
Which team’s injury return makes the biggest difference in week one of the finals? Drop a comment below and share your predictions for the opening round of the post-season.
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