Home Ground: McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

Coach: Adam O'Brien

TAB odds: Premiers: $51

The NEWCASTLE KNIGHTS secured a top-eight finish last year, culminating in a final-round victory against the Dolphins. This achievement marked Adam O'Brien's third finals appearance in four years as head coach.

The coach's record is indeed impressive; however, he is keen to capitalise on this momentum and continue his success, particularly while KAYLN PONGA is performing at his peak.

Undoubtedly there will be disappointment as they seem to be unable to match the quality of the top four sides during the playoffs, but you can't rely on one man to constantly save the day. PONGA is contracted until the end of 2027 on a deal worth $1.4 million per season, while FLETCHER SHARPE was a revelation in 2024 after making his first-grade debut. The 20-year-old Sharpe filled in admirably at fullback when Ponga was injured, and was so good he was retained in the NRL side on the wing when Ponga was back.

Adam O'Brien will have to weigh up who starts in the halves for the opening round, with WILL PRYCE and JACK COGGER likely to have the inside running, but PHOENIX CROSSLAND and JACKSON HASTINGS are both suitable options. Jack Cogger was in and out of the side in a range of different roles, from halfback to five-eighth to bench utility but eventually appeared to land the No.6 jersey during their run to the finals. 

In the meantime, PHOENIX CROSSLAND primarily played hooker, TYSON GAMBLE participated in only 14 matches owing to a prolonged injury, and WILL PRYCE did not fully demonstrate to the coach his readiness for a consistent NRL role. The Knights must carefully analyse the situation and devise a strategy that provides the necessary offensive structure to support Ponga's performance.

The foward rotation remains quite stable despite the loss of one SAIFITI. Forward KAI PEARCE-PAUL was fairly potent in the back row along side the dynamic DYLAN LUCAS. Add in the other big boppers and the burrowing style of ADAM ELLIOTT and you have a fairly reliable pack. However, that may not be enough unless they improve on last season and they fire as a unit. With a backline of this quailty, it is vital they establish a strong platform for the speedsters to feed off. Certainly won't get any easier for the boys from the Hunter.

First five: Tigers (A), Dolphins (H), Titans (A), BYE, Bulldogs (A)

Last year's finish: 8th

Predicted 2025 finish: 15th

PREDICTED STARTING SIDE

1. Kalyn PONGA

2. Greg MARZHEW

3. Bradman BEST

4. Dane GAGAI

5. Fletcher SHARPE

6. Will PRYCE

7. Jack COGGER

8. Jacob SAIFITI

9. Jayden BRAILEY

10. Leo THOMPSON

11. Kai PEARCE-PAUL

12. Tyson FRIZELL

13. Adam ELLIOTT

14. Phoenix CROSSLAND

15. Dylan LUCAS

16. Jack HETHERINGTON

17. Mat CROKER

PRE SEASON: Fri 14 Feb

Knights v Eels at McDonald Jones Stadium 6:00pm

Sun 23 Feb

Roosters v Knights at Industree Group Stadium 4:00pm