Get ready, rugby league fans—the action is back! But here’s where it gets exciting: the 2026 NRL Pre-season Challenge is kicking off with a thrilling matchup between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, and it’s anything but ordinary. Both teams are fielding experimental lineups, resting most of their star players, but the Cowboys have a trick up their sleeve—young gun Jaxon Purdue is stepping into the halves, potentially auditioning for a spot alongside Tom Dearden in Las Vegas. And this is the part most people miss: Heilum Luki, the Cowboys’ star back rower, is making his return from a serious knee injury, adding another layer of intrigue to this preseason clash.
The Bulldogs, on the other hand, are giving their younger squad a chance to shine, with nearly all of their top 17 players sitting this one out. This sets the stage for a fascinating battle of emerging talent, as both sides look to test their depth ahead of the 2026 season. But here’s the controversial question: Is resting key players in preseason a smart strategy, or does it rob fans of the high-stakes action they crave? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
For those eager to catch all the action, the 2026 NRL Pre-season series and All-Star matches will be broadcast LIVE and ad-break free during play on FOX LEAGUE, available on Kayo Sports. New to Kayo? Join now and get your first month for just $1. (http://www.kayosports.com.au/) Don’t miss out on the drama, the debuts, and the daring plays that could shape the season ahead.
Round 1 Highlights:
- Cowboys v Bulldogs: A youthful Bulldogs side takes on a Cowboys team featuring a mix of experience and raw talent. Will Purdue’s move to the halves pay off? Can Luki make a seamless return from injury? Follow the live scores and stats here: (https://www.foxsports.com.au/nrl/rugby-league-world-cup/match-centre/PSC20260101)
- Responsible Gambling Reminder: While you’re enjoying the game, remember to play it safe. Set a deposit limit and seek support if needed. For free and confidential help, call 1800 858 858 or visit gamblinghelponline.org.au.
Team Lineups:
Cowboys: 1. Mason Barber, 2. Robert Derby, 3. Zac Laybutt, 4. Liam Sutton, 5. Jaxson Paulo, 6. Jaxon Purdue, 7. Jake Clifford, 8. Harrison Edwards, 9. Xavier Kerrisk, 10. Thomas Mikaele, 11. Heilum Luki, 12. Kai O’Donnell, 13. Sam McIntyre, 14. Zac Herdegen, 15. Kaiden Lahrs, 16. Mason Kira, 17. Matthew Watts, 18. Creedence Toia, 19. Ronald Philitoga, 20. Maddox Goodwin, 21. Wiremu Greig, 22. Tyler Moriarty, 23. Joseph Doyle, 24. Isaiah Latu.
Bulldogs: 1. Taye Cochrane, 2. Cooper Toy, 3. Sosaia Alatini, 4. Jed Reardon, 5. Jonathan Sua, 6. Joseph Teaupa, 7. Alex Conti, 8. Daniel Suluka-Fifita, 9. Gordon Chan Kum Tong, 10. Samuel Hughes, 11. Alekolasimi Jones, 12. Logan Spinks, 13. Lipoi Hopoi, 14. Fletcher Baker, 16. Zyon Maiu’u, 17. Aaymon Fitzgibbon, 19. Jack Underhill, 20. Raymond Puru, 21. Hamish Wilson, 22. Jope Rauqe, 23. Michael Nassar, 24. Justin Matamua, 25. Bud Smith, 26. Bailey Myers.
FOLLOW ALL THE ACTION IN THE LIVE BLOG BELOW! CAN’T SEE IT? CLICK HERE! (https://go.arena.im/live/fox-sports-australia/Di8fQEa?v=2)
Final Thought: Preseason matches are often dismissed as mere warm-ups, but with young stars like Purdue and returning heroes like Luki, this game could be a sneak peek at the future of rugby league. What are you most excited to see? Let the debate begin!
