Canberra Raiders News

Canberra Raiders negotiate with Josh Papalii and Morgan Smithies for contract extensions.

LeagueNews.co

The Canberra Raiders are reportedly beginning negotiations with key forwards Josh Papalii and Morgan Smithies to secure their futures with the team.

Recently, Papalii's potential exit has been a topic of interest, especially with his previous considerations of moving to the English Super League to finish his career. However, rather than parting ways with the Raiders, he has reversed his stance and reached out to the club regarding a possible re-signing.

While there were rumors of the Newcastle Knights expressing interest in Papalii, preliminary discussions between the Raiders and his management have already taken place. According to a Canberra Times report, these discussions are expected to intensify. Papalii's strong performance this season positions him for a twelve-month contract extension, allowing him to finish his playing career in Canberra and potentially participate in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in Australia.

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The Raiders plan to secure Josh Papalii and Morgan Smithies' futures amid ongoing talks.

Zero Tackle

The Canberra Raiders are reportedly set to open talks with Josh Papalii and Morgan Smithies as they look to lock up the futures of two of their key forwards.

Papalii's future has made constant headlines in recent weeks, with the Queensland representative turning his back on the idea of finishing his career in the English Super League.

While it was rumoured at one stage the Newcastle Knights were also weighing up making a play for him, the Raiders have since had informal chats with Papalii and his management.

Those chats are about to go up a gear, per a Canberra Times report, with his impressive form this year set to him a twelve-month extension to close his career in the Nation's Capital before hopefully also playing in the 2026 Rugby...

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Star players, including Isaah Yeo, return for crucial NRL double-header featuring Panthers and Raiders.

LeagueNews.co

Friday's thrilling NRL double-header is anticipated to see the return of several star players, notably the Penrith Panthers who are hoping to reintegrate co-captain Isaah Yeo. Yeo has been named on an extended bench after missing two matches due to a shoulder injury, and he could make a late entry for the significant clash against the top-ranked Canberra Raiders, donning jersey No. 19.

His comeback would greatly benefit the Panthers as they vie for a top-four position, while the Raiders are feeling rejuvenated following a bye last week, with a strong 1-17 record.

The second match of the double-header promises intrigue as several stars are named on extended benches for both teams. Cameron Munster is positioned at fullback again, but Ryan Papenhuyzen is ready to step in if he passes all required concussion protocols. Meanwhile, Nelson Asofa-Solomona's potential return to the NRL squad adds to the excitement. However, Storm coach Craig Bellamy must implement a forced adjustment, with Joe Chan replacing Shawn Blore (ankle) in the back row.

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