Martin’s Continued Contribution to the Warriors

Te Maire Martin, the One New Zealand Warriors halfback, has extended his contract with the club, committing to stay until the end of the 2027 NRL season. This new agreement adds another year to his current deal, which had previously been extended for the 2026 campaign.

Martin’s journey this season began with a delayed start due to a broken leg. However, he has since played a crucial role, stepping into the halfback position for the Warriors’ last six matches. His return followed an injury to Tanah Boyd, whose season concluded early in May during the Magic Round clash against the Broncos due to an ACL knee injury.

Andrew McFadden, the One New Zealand Warriors general manager of recruitment, pathways, and development, expressed satisfaction with Martin’s extension. McFadden highlighted Martin’s contributions, noting his ability as a player, his attitude, passion for the game, and his determination to overcome challenges. Since joining the club in 2023, Martin has been a key contributor.

In his six appearances this season, Martin has demonstrated his impact on the field. He has scored four tries, provided seven try assists, made five line breaks, and recorded 19 tackle breaks. His average performance includes 91 metres gained and 23 tackles per game.

Andrew Webster, the One New Zealand Warriors head coach, also shared his confidence in Martin. Webster described Martin as a team-first player who is always willing to assist when needed. He praised Martin’s seamless transition into the halfback role after Boyd’s injury, despite his own late start to the season.

Martin has overcome various setbacks throughout his career. Last year, he reached his 100th NRL career appearance. He is also set to play his 50th game for the One New Zealand Warriors in their round 20 match against the Dragons at Go Media Stadium on July 18.

Career Highlights and Player Profile

Born on October 2, 1995, in Tokoroa, NZ, Martin’s junior club was Turangawaewae. He is capable of playing in multiple positions, including halfback, standoff, and fullback. His previous clubs include the Penrith Panthers (2016-2017), North Queensland Cowboys (2017-2019), and Brisbane Broncos (2022).

Martin made his NRL debut for Penrith against Brisbane at Panthers Stadium in Penrith on March 19, 2016, during Round 3. His Warriors debut was against Newcastle at Sky Stadium in Wellington on March 3, 2023, in Round 1, where he wore the Warriors No. 274 jersey.

Throughout his NRL career from 2016-2019 and 2022-2026, Martin has made 116 appearances. This includes 13 games for the Penrith Panthers (2016-2017), 42 games for the North Queensland Cowboys (2017-2019), and 13 games for the Brisbane Broncos (2022). For the One New Zealand Warriors, he has played 48 games between 2023-2026.

Martin has accumulated 97 NRL points, consisting of 24 tries and 1 field goal. On the representative stage, he has played 6 Tests for the Kiwis from 2016-2025 and has also represented the Māori All Stars in 2024 and 2026.

Dallin Watene-Zelezniak’s Extension and Impact

In related news, winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has also extended his stay with the One New Zealand Warriors until the end of the 2028 NRL season. This extension will see him complete an eight-year tenure with the club. He recently marked his 100th NRL game in Warriors colours, becoming the 33rd player to achieve this milestone.

Watene-Zelezniak is currently ranked third among the top try-scorers in the NRL, with 16 tries in 15 outings this year. His career encompasses 243 NRL games, including stints with the Warriors, Bulldogs, and Panthers, where he made his debut in 2014.

The Hamilton-born player had a notable season in 2023, where he was named Dally M Winger of the Year after scoring 24 tries in 20 games for the Warriors. His try against the Dolphins on Sunday brought his total try tally for the club to 75, giving him a strike rate of 0.75 tries per game among the club’s leading try scorers.

Webster praised Watene-Zelezniak as a true professional and a significant asset to the club, highlighting his passion and role model status for younger players. Watene-Zelezniak is averaging 139 metres per game this season, with 12 line breaks and 33 tackle breaks, contributing to the Warriors’ second-place position on the ladder. He is expected to be named on the wing for the upcoming clash against the Wests Tigers at Campbelltown Sports Stadium on Friday.

Source: warriors.kiwi

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Emerging Talent Ready for the Spotlight

The NRLW competition is set to showcase a new generation of players in the upcoming 2026 season. Several young athletes are poised to make a significant impact, following in the footsteps of previous breakout stars like Jesse Southwell, Indie Bostock, and Shalom Sauaso. The season is scheduled to commence on Thursday night.

Among the promising new faces is Lillian Yarrow of the Broncos, a 21-year-old prop who debuted for Queensland in this year’s State of Origin Game Three. Having spent two years with the Cowboys, Yarrow has now joined the reigning premiers and is expected to develop under the guidance of international player Shannon Mato. Brianna Clark, an experienced forward, noted Yarrow’s enthusiasm and her embrace of the Brisbane team’s culture, predicting she will be a long-term Bronco.

The Bulldogs will feature Mary-Jane Taito, a hooker who excelled in the recent Tarsha Gale Cup season, earning her a spot in the Top 24 squad. Teammate Evelyn Roberts, a halfback, has also transitioned from the under-19 competition to the NRLW squad. Captain Tayla Preston anticipates both players will contribute significantly to the team this year.

For the Cowboys, Abigail Roache is set for a new role in 2026, moving from centre to five-eighth following Kirra Dibb’s departure. Roache, a regular in the Kiwi Ferns team, is seen as a dynamic running five-eighth. Lock Bree Chester highlighted Roache’s versatility, stating she can play multiple positions effectively.

Kasey Reh is expected to lead the Dragons’ attack in 2026, stepping into the void left by veteran Raecene McGregor. Reh, who has successfully transitioned from State of Origin Under 19, is already considered a leader within the group, according to captain Brooke Anderson.

The Eels have invested in Freedom Crichton Ropati, an 18-year-old winger and cousin of Bulldogs captain Stephen Crichton. Crichton Ropati, who was player of the match in Parramatta’s Tarsha Gale Cup grand final victory, has a development contract for 2026 and a Top 24 contract for 2027 and 2028. Captain Mahalia Murphy expressed excitement about Crichton Ropati’s potential.

Sidney Taylor, a 23-year-old former Australian sevens team mainstay, will join the Knights in the centres for her debut season. Captain Yasmin Meakes is eager to see Taylor play, also highlighting Amelia Pasikala as another player expected to have a significant year.

At the Raiders, 21-year-old lock Lili Boyle, who debuted last season, has been added to the Top 24 squad after initially being on a development deal. Co-captain Zahara Temara expects Boyle to have a strong year.

Aliyah Nasio, a 20-year-old prop for the Roosters, is set to become a key player after steadily increasing her playing time since her 2024 debut. Despite being out for the first two games, captain Isabelle Kelly praised Nasio’s off-season work and anticipates a great year for her.

Madison Ashby returns to rugby league with the Sharks, marking a homecoming after playing a key role in the Sharks Tarsha Gale Cup victory in 2018 before moving to sevens. Coach Tony Herman noted Ashby’s versatility, capable of playing centre, fullback, or five-eighth.

Phoenix-Raine Hippi, a 19-year-old from the Titans, had a breakout debut season in 2025. Hippi, a fleet-footed back, earned a Queensland debut in the recent State of Origin series and is named to start in the centres for the upcoming clash with the Roosters. Captain Georgia Hale believes Hippi’s best is yet to come.

Ivana Lauitiiti, daughter of Warriors legend Ali Lauiti’iti, made an immediate impact last year, scoring a try on debut. The emerging forward played in six games during the Warriors’ return to the NRLW and represented the Kiwi Ferns in the Pacific Championships.

Finally, Namoe Gesa joins the Wests Tigers after a strong 2025 campaign with the Brisbane Tigers, where she helped win both the Under 19 and senior QRL premierships. The centre’s performances earned her a deal with the Wests Tigers, and an NRLW debut is anticipated this season, with skipper Kezie Apps looking forward to seeing her play.

Closing the Competitive Gap

The 2026 NRLW season is expected to be highly competitive, with rival clubs aiming to challenge the dominance of the Brisbane Broncos and the Sydney Roosters. These two teams contested the 2025 Grand Final, with the Broncos ultimately securing the premiership.

Despite the Broncos and Roosters being considered the teams to beat, captains like Brooke Anderson of the Dragons and Yasmin Meakes of the Knights believe the competitive gap across the league is narrowing. Meakes noted that trial matches showed the Warriors challenging Brisbane, and the Roosters demonstrated squad depth despite player unavailability.

Significant player movements have occurred since last season. Jesse Southwell has moved from Newcastle to the Broncos, who also gained Shannon Mato but lost Mele Hufanga and Gayle Broughton to the Warriors, and Keilee Joseph to Parramatta. The Wests Tigers have added Shaylee Bent and Holli Wheeler, while Brooke Anderson transferred from Cronulla to the Dragons.

The Broncos are embracing the challenge of defending their title, with experienced forward Brianna Clark stating that retaining a premiership is a significant undertaking. The Knights, despite losing Southwell, have added representative half Kirra Dibb and are rebuilding with emerging junior talent. The Titans have also strengthened their squad with rugby sevens star Teagan Levi and Indie Bostock.

The Cowboys, who reached a home semi-final in 2025, will face the Broncos in Round 1 at Suncorp Stadium. Forward Bree Chester views this as an important test for their title aspirations. The Roosters, like the Broncos, are aware of the increased competition, with captain Isabelle Kelly acknowledging that changes have been made to their play style and combinations to prepare for the season. The ninth NRLW season will kick off on Thursday night when the Sharks host Newcastle at Ocean Protect Stadium.

Source: nrl.com

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The NZ Warriors experienced another narrow loss, falling 26-24 to the Dolphins at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium. This marks the third defeat in their last four games, with each loss decided by two points against top-tier teams. The Dolphins secured the win with a late try from Selwyn Cobbo, despite the Warriors having taken a seemingly game-winning lead moments earlier. This result echoes a previous encounter at Go Media Stadium last August, where the Dolphins also scored in the final minute to win.

Warriors coach Andrew Webster noted the consistent closeness of games between the two teams, describing the scoreline as a fair reflection of the contest. He acknowledged that while his team fought hard to regain the lead, they lacked clarity in the game’s final moments, allowing the Dolphins to secure their victory. The result places the Warriors in a three-way tie with the Dolphins and Sydney Roosters for second on the competition table, though they maintain an advantage due to a superior points differential.

Key Player Performances

Several Warriors players delivered strong performances despite the loss. Second-rower Kurt Capewell, returning from Origin duties, played the full 80 minutes, contributing a linebreak, a near try, and 44 tackles. Jacob Laban also impressed, leading all tacklers with 59 and scoring a try through his aerial skills. Captain Mitch Barnett made 35 tackles and gained 154 running metres.

Webster praised Laban’s recent form, highlighting his ability to maintain high performance levels even when fatigued. Back-up hooker Sam Healey, on the field for 22 minutes, made three dummy half runs for 33 metres and scored what appeared to be a decisive try. Second-rower Eddie Ieremia-Toeava had his longest career outing, entering midway through the first half and staying until the end, including some time in the backs. Webster has identified Ieremia-Toeava as a future 80-minute player known for his fitness.

Among the backs, fullback Taine Tuaupiki ran for a team-high 184 metres, and halfback Te Maire Martin was noted as a standout performer. The Warriors’ best try involved a set play where Martin and Ieremia-Toeava set up wing Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad for his fifth try in two games.

Critical Moments and Injuries

The match featured numerous defensive plays from both sides. In the fourth minute, Dolphins fullback Tabuai Hamiso-Fidow prevented a try from Capewell. Later, a high kick spilled by Dallin Watene-Zelezniak led to Cobbo’s opening score for the Dolphins. Crucial try-saving tackles by Martin and front-rower Tanner Stowers-Smith kept the Warriors in contention.

A significant momentum shift occurred just before halftime. With the Warriors leading 12-10, Dolphins half Brad Schneider’s kick led to Adam Pompey being stripped of the ball by Kodi Nikorima, resulting in a try for Jamayne Isaako. This steal was particularly impactful as the Warriors had previously won their last 17 games when leading at halftime.

The Warriors also faced further injury concerns, with club centurion Watene-Zelezniak leaving the field due to a tight hamstring. Additionally, Pompey was cited for lifting his knees during a running action, an offense for which he has already served a two-week suspension this season. In positive news, front-rower James Fisher-Harris and second-rower Leka Halasima are expected to return, and Healey made his first appearance after recovering from a broken thumb.

Upcoming Fixtures and Team Outlook

The Warriors will benefit from a bye next week, providing an opportunity for injured players to recover before their next outing. This bye will also grant them two competition points, preventing them from losing further ground. The Roosters also have a bye, while the Dolphins and Knights will play without their Origin stars.

Following the bye, the Warriors are scheduled to play the Tigers (away), St George Illawarra Dragons (home), Canterbury Bulldogs (away), and Gold Coast Titans (away). None of these opponents currently hold winning records, though the Bulldogs have shown recent improvement with three consecutive victories. Due to a short turnaround from Origin III, the Warriors are unlikely to have Barnett or Capewell available for the match against the Tigers.

The Dolphins have extended their winning streak to eight games, but may be without star playmaker Isaiyah Katoa for an unspecified period due to a wrist/forearm injury. Their strong Kiwi contingent, including Nikorima and Isaako, is expected to be crucial in maintaining their momentum, especially if Katoa is sidelined for an extended period.

The Dolphins will travel to Newcastle for their next game, which will test their form and depth given potential player absences for Origin. The Cowboys celebrated Jason Tamalolo’s 300th match with a win against the Panthers, snapping a three-game losing streak.

The Sea Eagles secured a victory over the Storm, but their win was marred by a suspected season-ending ACL injury to five-eighth Luke Brooks. Joey Walsh deputised for Brooks in the second half. The Dolphins and Warriors match was played in front of over 40,000 fans at Suncorp Stadium.

The Warriors have had to manage numerous injuries throughout 2026, with players like Jackson Ford, Tanah Boyd, James Fisher-Harris, Leka Halasima, and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck having spent time on the sidelines.

The Dolphins‘ left edge has been particularly effective, with their left-side half, edge forward, centre, and winger all scoring in consecutive weeks. Jamayne Isaako’s acrobatic finish not only put his side back in the lead but also brought up 1,500 NRL points for the Kiwi player.

The Warriors will receive two points from their bye next week.

Source: rnz.co.nz

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Hodkinson, who led NSW to a series win in 2014, expressed doubts regarding this combination. He noted that Moses has only played one Origin game alongside Cleary. Additionally, he highlighted that Cleary has struggled at the Origin level in previous years.

Key points from Hodkinson’s comments:

• Hodkinson believes two dominant halves can lead to struggles at Origin level.
• He stated, “I think it’s clear to say Nathan will be locked in at that seven.”
• Hodkinson mentioned that if Cleary can direct play effectively, it could work, but Luai has a strong combination with him.

Ethan Strange is also performing well in the Canberra side, which adds another layer to team selection decisions. The NSW team will be picked in two weeks, and players will need to demonstrate their form to secure a jersey.

The upcoming selection process is critical as it sets the stage for a competitive State of Origin series. Hodkinson’s insights reflect ongoing discussions about team dynamics and player combinations ahead of the matches.

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The Rabbitohs currently sit in fourth position on the ladder with five wins from seven games. They recently defeated the Melbourne Storm 48-6, showcasing their offensive strength. In contrast, the Knights are struggling in 11th position with four wins and four losses, currently on a three-game losing streak.

Key statistics:

• The Rabbitohs have a points differential of plus 72.
• Alex Johnston has scored nine tries this season, including a double in his last match.
• Cameron Murray will captain the Rabbitohs from lock.

Ponga returns to lead the Knights as captain at fullback, which many believe could shift the team’s momentum. The last meeting between these teams occurred in round nine of 2025, where the Knights won decisively 30-4.

Wayne Bennett returns to Newcastle as head coach for the Rabbitohs. His experience may play a crucial role in strategizing against a revitalized Knights squad.

As both teams prepare for this encounter, observers expect a competitive match with significant implications for both sides’ standings in the NRL.

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The Sea Eagles displayed remarkable resilience. They managed to level the score at 24-all during the second half after trailing by significant margins. Patrick Moimoi’s try just before half-time was crucial, giving the Panthers a 24-18 lead going into the break.

Key statistics:

• The Panthers scored 40 points while the Sea Eagles scored 36 points.
• Jaxen Edgar achieved a hat-trick during the match.
• Zakauri Clarke converted six out of seven attempts.
• Blake Metcalfe converted all six of his attempts.

The match was part of The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup and highlighted both teams’ performances this season. The Panthers have now won eight out of nine games this year. Meanwhile, the Sea Eagles had entered this match on a four-game winning streak.

Looking ahead, the Panthers will play against the Canberra Raiders in Round 10. The Sea Eagles will have a bye before their next game against the South Sydney Rabbitohs in Round 11. This outcome leaves some questions about how each team will perform in their upcoming matches.

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Saifiti debuted for the Newcastle Knights in 2016 alongside his twin brother Jacob Saifiti. He was named Rookie of the Year that season. In 2025, he signed with the Dolphins, where he was considered their best player during his short stint.

Despite undergoing surgery at the end of 2025 and committing to an extensive rehabilitation process, he could not recover sufficiently to continue playing. His last game was in round eight against Canberra in 2025.

Key facts about Daniel Saifiti’s career:

• Played a total of 191 NRL games.
• Scored 21 tries throughout his career.
• Represented NSW in seven State of Origin matches.
• Played three Tests for Fiji.
• Signed a three-year contract worth $800,000 per year with the Dolphins.

Dolphins CEO Terry Reader expressed pride in Saifiti’s career, stating, “There is no doubt Daniel was our best player in the first eight weeks of last year and we have really missed him since then.” Reader added, “It is sad for it to end this way but Daniel has had a career he can be proud of.”

Saifiti’s injury limited movement in his arm and made heavy contact work impossible. Observers say his impact on the group was immediate and significant. The decision to retire reflects both his commitment to recovery and the severity of his condition.

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The Warriors led 16-6 at halftime. Khan-Pereira crossed for his double during the match, further solidifying his impact on the field. The Eels narrowed the margin to 18-14 midway through the second half, but Roger Tuivasa-Sheck scored a late try to seal the victory for the Warriors.

Key statistics:

• The final score was 36-14 in favor of the Warriors.
• Khan-Pereira has now scored three consecutive try doubles.
• The Warriors completed 37 of 44 sets at an efficiency rate of 84 percent.

The win lifted the Warriors level with the Penrith Panthers at the top of the NRL table. They have a bye in Round 10 before facing the Broncos on May 17. The team’s performance has been impressive this season, and they are currently holding second place on the NRL ladder.

As Khan-Pereira continues to shine, fans are eager to see how he and the Warriors will perform in upcoming matches.

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The Broncos had scored four tries in a row before Staggs’ ejection. They fought back from a 30-0 deficit to close the gap to six points. However, the loss of Staggs proved detrimental.

Adam Reynolds also suffered an injury and will miss the next game against Manly. Coach Michael Maguire noted that losing Staggs gave the Roosters a one-man advantage.

Key facts from the match:

• The Roosters scored 30 points while the Broncos managed 24.
• Staggs will miss two games due to suspension.
• The Broncos were down by 30 points before their comeback effort.
• They got within six points after scoring four tries consecutively.
• Deine Mariner returned to play after being injured earlier in the match.

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves commented on the incident, stating, “Yes he did come down with some force on Hugo’s head there with his forearm, it doesn’t look good.” Meanwhile, teammate Pat Carrigan defended Staggs, saying, “Kotoni plays aggressive and I know he wouldn’t have meant to do any harm.”

The Broncos will now prepare for their upcoming match against Manly without key players like Reynolds and Staggs. This situation highlights ongoing challenges for the team as they navigate injuries and suspensions during the season.

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Key player updates:

• Ponga will captain the team from fullback, in what will be his first appearance since Round 2.
• Dylan Brown has returned to the Knights’ squad, adding depth to their attack.
• Latrell Mitchell has returned to his dominant ball-carrying best in his move back to the centres.

The Knights have struggled defensively, conceding big scores in their last three games. They are desperate to rebound on their home turf after these struggles. The match is expected to showcase two of the best attacking teams in the NRL.

Alex Johnston leads the Rabbitohs with nine tries this year, including a double last week. Tallis Duncan scored a hat-trick last weekend and is among the most improved players this season. This will be Wayne Bennett’s return to Newcastle as coach of South Sydney.

Harrison Graham has been dropped from the Knights’ squad for this match, but their lineup remains largely unchanged apart from several returning players. The stakes are high for both teams as they vie for critical points in the NRL standings.

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