The 2026 NRL season opens with Brisbane vs. Panthers and Melbourne Storm's undefeated streak.
According to raiders.com.au, the 2026 NRL season opener features intriguing matchups. Defending champions Brisbane will seek to begin their title defense with a win against the Panthers, the team they bested in a dramatic preliminary final last September.
Meanwhile, the Melbourne Storm aims to uphold their impressive Round 1 undefeated streak under Craig Bellamy, which dates back to 2003. This highly anticipated Friday night clash will take place at Suncorp Stadium, where Adam Reynolds led the Broncos to victory, ending Penrith's four-year championship reign.
Dylan Brown, fresh off a stellar performance in the Pacific Championships, aims to guide his new team, Newcastle, to victory in Las Vegas. NRL.com previews the opening round, commencing on March 1 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas and culminating with the Dolphins facing off against the Rabbitohs that Sunday.