Get ready for a thrilling showdown as the NRL Charity Shield clash between our team and the South Sydney Rabbitohs heats up! But here’s where it gets exciting: Head Coach Shane Flanagan has just unveiled his 2026 squad, and it’s packed with both seasoned stars and fresh talent. With the Las Vegas trip on the horizon, this lineup is a sneak peek at what’s to come—and it’s already sparking conversations.
Co-captains Clint Gutherson and Damien Cook lead the charge, joined by fan favorites like Valentine Holmes, Jaydn Su’A, and Moses Suli. And this is the part most people miss: Daniel Atkinson makes his debut in the Red V jersey, stepping into the halfback role alongside Kyle Flanagan. Will this new pairing be the game-changer we’ve been waiting for?
On the wings, Setu Tu teams up with Christian Tuipulotu, while last week’s standout performers—Kade Reed, Hayden Buchanan, and Jacob Halangahu—earn their spots on the interchange bench. But here’s the controversial bit: Key players like Josh Kerr (All-Stars), Jacob Liddle (hamstring), and Nathan Lawson (foot) are sidelined. How will their absence impact the team’s performance? Let’s discuss in the comments!
Here’s the full team list for the pre-season challenge, ready to battle it out on the field:
PRE-SEASON CHALLENGE TEAM LIST
- Clint GUTHERSON (c)
- Christian TUIPULOTU
- Moses SULI
- Valentine HOLMES
- Setu TU
- Kyle FLANAGAN
- Daniel ATKINSON
- Emre GULER
- Damien COOK (c)
- Toby COUCHMAN
- Luciano LEILUA
- Jaydn SU’A
- Hame SELE
- Hamish STEWART
- Blake LAWRIE
- Ryan COUCHMAN
- Loko PASIFIKI TONGA
- Tyrell SLOAN
- Mathew FEAGAI
- David FALE
- Lyhkan KING-TOGIA
- Kade REED
- Jacob HALANGAHU
- Hayden BUCHANAN
- Nick TSOUGRANIS
- Ha’ele FINAU
This lineup is more than just a team list—it’s a statement of intent. With a mix of experience and new blood, the stage is set for an unforgettable clash. But the real question is: Can this squad rise to the occasion and claim victory? Share your thoughts below—let’s get the debate started!
