As the Sydney Roosters prepare for the 2025 NRL season, head coach Trent Robinson has unveiled a dynamic 15-man lineup, blending seasoned players with promising newcomers to navigate a period of significant transition. The team faces the challenge of replacing key departures, including Joseph Manu and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii to rugby union, and veterans Jared Waerea-Hargreaves and Luke Keary to the Super League.
**Backline:**
– **Fullback:** Captain James Tedesco continues to lead from the back, bringing experience and leadership to the squad.
– **Wingers:** Former Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase, who impressed in the NSW Cup with two tries in three games, is set to make his NRL debut, replacing the injured Dom Young. On the opposite wing, Daniel Tupou’s height and finishing skills remain invaluable.
– **Centres:** Paul Momirovski and Billy Smith are expected to form the centre pairing, tasked with providing stability and creativity in the midfield.
**Halves:**
– **Five-Eighth:** With Luke Keary’s departure, Drew Hutchison is anticipated to step into the five-eighth role, offering a steady hand and playmaking abilities.
– **Halfback:** Sandon Smith is set to start at halfback, with head coach Trent Robinson expressing high confidence in his abilities, especially in light of Sam Walker’s ACL injury.
**Forwards:**
– **Props:** Lindsay Collins anchors the front row with his robust defense and go-forward. Alongside him, teenager De La Salle Va’a, standing at 198cm and weighing 114kg, is set to make his debut off the bench, marking a significant milestone in his developing career.
– **Hooker:** Jake Turpin is expected to fill the void at hooker, bringing reliability and service from dummy half.
– **Second Row:** Angus Crichton, who returned to his devastating best in 2024, and Egan Butcher are likely to be the starting second-rowers, providing work rate and edge defense.
– **Lock:** Victor Radley, despite previous injuries, is set to lock the scrum, offering ball-playing abilities and toughness in the middle.
**Interchange Bench:**
– **Connor Watson:** Offers versatility across multiple positions, providing depth and utility value.
– **Fletcher Baker:** Adds size and impact off the bench in the forward rotation.
– **Siua Wong:** A promising young forward expected to contribute energy and enthusiasm.
– **De La Salle Va’a:** The towering teenager is set to make his debut off the bench, bringing physical presence to the pack.
This lineup reflects Trent Robinson’s strategic approach to blend experienced campaigners with emerging talents, aiming to maintain the Roosters’ competitive edge despite the significant roster changes. The inclusion of players like Nawaqanitawase and Va’a signifies a commitment to nurturing young talent, while the interest in veteran playmaker Ben Hunt underscores the club’s intent to bolster the squad’s experience and versatility.
