Penrith coach Ivan Cleary has named his team for Friday night’s clash against Brisbane as the club begins its quest for an historic NRL premiership three-peat.
Sunia Turuva has been named on the wing to replace the injured Tyrone May. The exciting Fijian international will be given first crack at bedding down a spot for the season ahead.
There had been some speculation that Jesse McLean would make his NRL debut against the Broncos but he’ll start the season in NSW Cup.
Meanwhile, Luke Garner will become Panther 614 after being named to make his club debut in the second row.
Mitch Kenny has been named at hooker as Penrith begins life without Api Koroisau, with Soni Luke named on the bench.
Panthers team: Dylan Edwards, Sunia Turuva, Izack Tago, Stephen Crichton, Brian To’o, Jarome Luai, Nathan Cleary (c), Moses Leota, Mitch Kenny, James Fisher-Harris, Luke Garner, Liam Martin, Isaah Yeo (c). Bench: Soni Luke, Scott Sorensen, Spencer Leniu, Jaeman Salmon.
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
