Canberra Raiders NRL News

The Canberra Times

Jordan Rapana has shed five kilograms during his first full pre-season in more than five years and his lighter frame has convinced him he's up to the fullback challenge in what could be his NRL swansong.

Rapana is the favourite to take the Canberra Raiders' No.1 jersey for their season-opener against Newcastle next week despite missing both of the team's trial matches.

He is locked in a three-way battle with Albert Hopoate and Chevy Stewart, who both had stints at the back in trials against Parramatta and the North Queensland Cowboys.

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LeagueNews.co

In a not-so-strange turn of events, Canberra Raiders' halfback Ethan Strange finds himself in hot water after being charged by the NRL match review committee.

Following an intense pre-season challenge match against the Cowboys, Strange has been slapped with a grade one dangerous throw charge on Thomas Mikaele, leaving fans and pundits questioning his judgement on the field.

While the consequences for such a charge may seem like small change to some, with a $1000 fine looming if he takes the early pleas, Strange risks paying an even steeper price - $1500 - if he decides to fight it and ultimately loses.

The pressure is on for Strange to make a wise choice, as the Raiders look to kick off their season on the right foot.

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The Canberra Times

Canberra Raiders youngster Ethan Strange has been cleared for a round-one debut if coach Ricky Stuart picks him after he was slapped with a $1000 fine for a dangerous tackle.

Strange was facing a nervous wait on Sunday night and Monday morning after he was sin-binned and put on report for lifting North Queensland Cowboy Thomas Mikaele into a dangerous position.

It was perhaps the only blemish on his trial performance, which has put him in a strong position to claim a round-one halves spot.

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