Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart plans to rest most NRL stars in upcoming trials, playing only those in strong depth positions before the season begins.
Canberra Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has flagged his intentions to rest a majority of his NRL stars in two upcoming trials, but who exactly will be given the call-up?
The Raiders are set to take on the Melbourne Storm this Friday at Seiffert Oval with kick-off at 5.30pm, and though the entire NRL squad will be in attendance to watch on and meet fans, only a fraction will get on the field.
Not wanting to risk injury setbacks before the club's 2026 NRL campaign officially begins in Manly on March 7, Stuart said the only first-graders likely to get a run will be those in the centre and wing positions where depth is greatest.
That likely rules out young halves duo Ethan Strange and Ethan Sanders from playing in Queanbeyan, as well as superstar fullback Kaeo Weekes, and the Raiders' experienced forward pack led by skipper Joe Tapine.