Rugby league fans – even Wests Tigers and St George Illawarra ones – are always excited when it comes to this time of year.
The players have been slogging it out for almost three months, are rock-hard fit, and there is always one or two “next big things” ready to light up the competition.
The Herald went to all 17 clubs and hit them with the hard-hitting questions we all want to know.
Who has been training the house down? Yes, seriously. Who could be pushing for higher honours this year? And which player has thrived with a change of scenery?
From perennial pre-season specialists Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax and Scott Drinkwater to boom rookies Keenan Palasia and Viliami Fifita, our poll has something for everyone.
Never looked fitter: Adam Reynolds
Adam Reynolds.Credit: Getty
At 33, Adam Reynolds is setting the tone and finding ways to improve. He lost 5kg in the off season before returning to training, and a quick visit to the club’s Red Hill training base is all that is needed to see Reynolds leading in many of the fitness tests. In one opposed session, the veteran showed off his newfound mobility at the end of a set piece, weaving around fullback Tristan Sailor to score, and prop Corey Jensen said his skipper’s ethic had been key in pushing the rest of the group to lift their standards.
“He’s the ultimate professional. Everyone tries to stand up and be like Adam, and he leads the club really well,” Jensen said.
NRL 2024: The players to build your dreams on this season
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20.01.2024
Rugby league fans – even Wests Tigers and St George Illawarra ones – are always excited when it comes to this time of year.
The players have been slogging it out for almost three months, are rock-hard fit, and there is always one or two “next big things” ready to light up the competition.
The Herald went to all 17 clubs and hit them with the........
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