The Canberra Raiders have made an early decision on their new captain for the upcoming NRL season, surprising fans with a bold choice to lead the team. While many anticipated the appointment of a seasoned veteran, the Raiders opted for a younger player, signaling a fresh direction for the club.

In other major news, the Brisbane Broncos are reportedly set to part ways with a key Maroons player. Due to salary cap pressures and a crowded roster, the club is poised to make the tough decision to offload the Queensland representative, despite their strong performances in recent seasons.

Meanwhile, Cronulla Sharks star Nicho Hynes is being heavily backed to break a longstanding hoodoo in the upcoming season. After a stellar year, Hynes is seen as the key to finally lifting the Sharks to premiership glory, with experts confident he can end the club’s long-running struggles in crucial finals matches.