Jed Stuart stresses a "team-first" approach as competition for finals selection intensifies.
Jed Stuart emphasized the importance of a "team-first" mentality at the Raiders while discussing the challenging decision his father and coach, Ricky Stuart, faces regarding his selection for the upcoming finals. The young winger has stepped up impressively in place of injured star Savelio Tamale, who has been out since round 14 due to a knee injury.
Tamale was a contender for 'rookie of the year' before his dislocated kneecap suffered during a significant win against the Rabbitohs in June. He managed to score six tries in 14 appearances for the Raiders, standing out in tackle busts early in the season, following a brief stint in the NRL with the Dragons in 2024.
Expected to return for the Raiders in their round 26 match against the Wests Tigers, Tamale's comeback is eagerly anticipated as a significant boost for the team before the finals. However, this return creates a pressing challenge for the coach, with Jed likely to be the player benched.