The venue for Sunday’s games … Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. Photo: supplied
The NRL kicks off its 2025 season in Las Vegas this Sunday morning (Australian time) with a women’s international, an English Super League clash and some drama.
The Raiders take on the Warriors at Allegiant Stadium from 10am Sunday followed by the Panthers and Sharks at 2.30pm in a staggered opening round.
Other games this weekend at the stadium see the Jillaroos take on England and Wigan play Warrington in a Super League clash preceded by a Nines tournament.
The rest of the round resumes when the Roosters meet the Broncos in Syndey next Thursday.
But already Raiders forwards Hudson Young and Morgan Smithies have had to apologise and may face club sanctions over a scuffle at a Las Vegas hotel.
Locked out of their hotel room after a night on the town due to a system glitch, hotel security ejected them.
The duo will play on but may face sanctions when they return.
The NRL also found itself on the defensive over invitations to US President Donald Trump and UFC boss Dana White to attend the games.
The invitations reportedly cost them the support of anti-domestic violence organisation White Ribbon which has cut all ties.
Media reports says the first game between the US and Greece at Silverbowl Park was called off when thieves stole copper from their ground’s lighting system.
JILLAROOS TEAM
Meanwhile, Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner has named her side for the Test match against England.
“We have a strong rivalry with England and a lot has changed since we last faced them in 2017. This high-profile match is a great way to strengthen the national program and help the Jillaroos prepare for the 2026 World Cup,” she told NRL.com.au
Australia: Tamika Upton, Jakiya Whitfeld, Isabelle Kelly, Tiana Penitani, Julia Robinson, Ali Brigginshaw (captain), Tarryn Aiken, Shannon Mato, Olivia Higgins, Kezie Apps (c), Yasmin Clydsdale, Olivia Kernick, Simaima Taufa, Quincy Dodd, Jessica Sergis, Sarah Togatuki, Keilee Joseph, Lauren Brown, Jessika Elliston, Mahalia Murphy and Keeley Davis.
England: Keara Bennett (Leeds), Jodie Cunningham (St Helens), Georgie Dagger (York), Anna Davies (Wigan), Hollie-Mae Dodd (Canberra Raiders), Amy Hardcastle (St Helens)
Zoe Harris (St Helens), Shona Hoyle (St Helens), Katie Mottershead (St Helens), Izzy Northrop (Leeds), Eboni Partington (York), Tamzin Renouf (York), Georgia Roche (Newcastle), Bella Sykes (Leeds), Paige Travis (Parramatta), Vicky Whitfield (St Helens)
Liv Wood (York). 18th player: Erin Stott (St Helens)
