Round 1 Team News: Final Side to Face Eels

Cameron Ciraldo has finalised his Round 1 team to face the Eels with the side remaining unchanged except for 18th man where Connor Tracey comes in to replace Bronson Xerri. 

Captain Stephen Crichton will lead his side out, ready to face neighbouring rivals Parramatta for the first official match-up of the 2024 NRL season.

Jacob Kiraz will make his first start in 2024 from the centres, while the halves combination sees Matt Burton and Drew Hutchison taking charge.

Blake Taaffe locks down the fullback position after impressing Ciraldo with a big pre-season campaign and his efforts in the trials. Blake Wilson has been rewarded for a good start to his NRL career in 2023 and a solid pre-season, named to start on the wing opposite veteran winger Josh Addo-Carr.

Kurtis Morrin, Kurt Mann, Sam Hughes and Josh Curran will add a big impact from the interchange bench.

Xerri played earlier in the NSW Cup win, gaining some valuable minutes whilst contributing significantly as the team clinched a hard-fought contest over the home side, 38-36.