The NRL finals are heating up with major storylines emerging as teams battle for a spot in the grand final. Sam Walker is on track for a preliminary final return, providing a timely boost for the Sydney Roosters. Meanwhile, the coaching rivalry between Cronulla’s Craig Fitzgibbon and Roosters’ Trent Robinson has intensified, with Fitzgibbon admitting, “Whilst we talk regularly, we’re not talking this week.” This adds an extra layer of intrigue to their sudden-death clash, as Fitzgibbon plots to deny his former club again.
In other news, the Warriors are gearing up for a blockbuster elimination final against the Newcastle Knights at Eden Park. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has issued a challenge to coach Andrew Webster, stating, “Give me an opportunity,” as he pushes for a late call-up. Teammate Ali Leiataua credits his family for helping him thrive in high-pressure situations, saying, “He’s always there.” The wing battle between Ronaldo Mulitalo and Mark Nawaqanitawase is also set to be a thrilling finale, with both players expected to leave everything on the field.
On the NRLW front, history was made as Canberra advanced to their first-ever preliminary final, ending the Wests Tigers’ 15-year finals misery in a low-scoring nail-biter. The NRL has also confirmed details for the 2026 Preliminary Finals, with one team set to gain a significant advantage ahead of the Grand Final on October 4. Additionally, Kalyn Ponga’s decade-long journey to becoming the complete fullback has been highlighted, with analysts noting how “the penny finally dropped” for the Newcastle star.
As the finals progress, all eyes will be on Walker’s fitness, the coaching mind games, and the intense on-field battles. With so much at stake, fans can expect unforgettable moments as teams vie for premiership glory.
Shimanta Das 
