Canberra Raiders News

Wed, 20th August, 2025, 9:52 AEST
Are the Raiders the real deal in 2025? We'll find out this Friday in Mudgee
Sydney pundits predict the Raiders' downfall, suggesting they lack the performance level of competitors.
Region Canberra
Some Sydney-based pundits are already predicting the Raiders' downfall towards the backend of the season and into the finals.
The suggestion is that the Green Machine lacks another gear, whereas Melbourne and the Panthers are capable of elevating their performance to another level.
Mind you, I noticed at least one of the pundits at the start of the season announced the Raiders as favourites to secure the wooden spoon on the back of the departure of Jordan Rapana and Elliott Whitehead.
With the Raiders sitting on the top of the ladder with three rounds to go, nothing could be further from the truth.
See more...
Wed, 20th August, 2025, 8:38 AEST
Panthers Sign Promising Knights Playmaker, Roster Changes Ahead
Penrith Panthers sign young playmaker Haami Loza as ten players may leave this off-season.
LeagueNews.co
The Penrith Panthers have reportedly acquired a talented young playmaker from the Newcastle Knights, aligning with speculation that as many as 10 players might leave the defending champions during the upcoming off-season. According to Peter Lang from 'The Western Weekender', Haami Loza has agreed to join the Panthers.
At just 21 years old, Loza is well-regarded at the Knights and made his debut in the NSW Cup earlier this season. Lang stated, "Haami has plenty of potential and will no doubt thrive in the Penrith Panthers pathways system."
This signing follows the Panthers' recent acquisition of Keahn Skipps from the Canberra Raiders. Skipps served as captain of the Raiders' Jersey Flegg Cup team at the Under-19 level and is also highly rated. Both Skipps and Loza will benefit from the guidance of star Panthers halfback Nathan Cleary, with Lang predicting that they will soon vie for a spot in the first grade.
See more...
Tue, 19th August, 2025, 20:15 AEST
Raiders Initiate Talks with Key Forwards
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.
See more...