The Panthers are set for a huge boost with star halfback Nathan Cleary set to take the field for the first time since Round 10.
Almost every coach will have a big decision to make regarding their Origin stars, with Kevin Walters in particular set to make a big call.
Meanwhile, the Raiders are set to welcome back their key playmakers while the Sea Eagles can breathe a sigh of relief.
FRIDAY
Canberra Raiders v Warriors, 8pm AEST at GIO Stadium
Raiders Round 18 team: 1. Jordan Rapana 2. Albert Hopoate 3. Matthew Timoko 20. Adam Cook 5. Xavier Savage 6. Ethan Strange 7. Kaeo Weekes 8. Josh Papali’i 9. Tom Starling 10. Joseph Tapine 11. Hudson Young 12. Elliott Whitehead 13. Morgan Smithies 14. Danny Levi 15. Ata Mariota 16. Trey Mooney 17. Jordan Martin 18. Simi Sasagi
Team Tips: A massive boost for the Raiders, with halfback Jamal Fogarty expected back from his bicep injury this week. Fogarty’s return will see Adam Cook drop out of the side, with Kaeo Weekes likely retain the fullback jersey and Jordan Rapana shifting to the wing. Seb Kris was 18th man in Round 18 and could line up in the centres against the Warriors. Zac Hosking is also due to return from a shoulder injury and is set to replace Jordan Martin on the bench.
Warriors Round 18 team: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 4. Adam Pompey 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Chanel Harris-Tavita 7. Te Maire Martin 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Marata Niukore 12. Kurt Capewell 15. Dylan Walker 14. Freddy Lussick 16. Jazz Tevaga 17. Jackson Ford 23. Leka Halasima
Team Tips: Round 20 might come too soon for Warriors Origin stars Mitch Barnett and Kurt Capewell, who may be rested after a gruelling decider at Suncorp. Jackson Ford will likely replace Capewell in the back row, with Jazz Tevaga or Bunty Afoa starting at prop. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Marcelo Montoya were unable to finish their Round 18 loss to the Bulldogs but are expected to back up. However, both Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (calf) and Tohu Harris (wrist) are out, with Taine Tuaupiki and Dylan Walker expected to start in their place. Leka Halasima could remain on the bench after impressing against the Bulldogs. He could be joined by one of Jacob Laban and Tom Ale.
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