Rugby League goes under the spotlight – and blowtorch – in The League Fix, 3news.co.nz’s online exclusive weekly series about the great game.
Sam Ackerman is joined by Warriors star Jerome Ropati, to dissect all the weekend’s NRL action, the big hits and a look ahead at Origin III.
Both Queensland and NSW have named extended squads, with Queensland sweating an injured Billy Slater, Justin Hodges and Sam Thaiday. A broken-toed Ashley Harrison has been ruled out.
Squad: Matt Bowen, Darius Boyd, Petero Civoniceva, Cooper Cronk, Matt Gillett, Ben Hannant, Justin Hodges, Greg Inglis, Nate Myles, Dane Nielsen, Corey Parker, Matt Scott, David Shillington, Billy Slater, Cameron Smith (capt), Brent Tate, David Taylor, Ben Te'o, Sam Thaiday, Johnathan Thurston.
Meanwhile NSW has named Manly duo Glenn Stewart and Tony Williams in his 19-man squad for the series decider. Stuart named Stewart despite the Sea Eagles back-rower being diagnosed with a partial tear of the medial ligament less than a week ago.
NSW squad: Greg Bird, Todd Carney, Ben Creagh, Robbie Farah, Paul Gallen (capt), Tim Grant, Jarryd Hayne, Michael Jennings, Luke Lewis, Trent Merrin, Brett Morris, Josh Morris, Mitchell Pearce, Beau Scott, Brett Stewart, Glenn Stewart, James Tamou, Anthony Watmough, Tony Williams.
Plus the boys take a look ahead to the Warriors clash with the Cowboys this weekend at Mt Smart stadium.
Bolstered by the return of Nathan Friend and wing Glen Fisiiahi, will the Warriors come out victorious over a North Queensland side down five players due to Origin?
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