The Panthers have made a surprising selection decision by naming Trent Toelau as Nathan Cleary’s replacement at halfback for their Round 4 clash against the Rabbitohs. Toelau, who impressed in the trial win over the Sea Eagles, will make his NRL starting debut after being preferred over new signing Blaize Talagi, who came off the bench and showed promise in last week’s match against the Storm. Many had expected Talagi or Brad Schneider to get the nod alongside Jack Cole, but coach Ivan Cleary emphasized that while Talagi has NRL potential, he still has development ahead.
For South Sydney, try-scoring ace Alex Johnston returns after missing the start of the season due to an Achilles injury, while Latrell Mitchell is expected back next week.
Elsewhere, Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy has chosen Tyran Wishart to replace Jahrome Hughes (broken hand) for their clash with the Dragons, with Eli Katoa and Grant Anderson both overcoming injury concerns to remain in the lineup.
Manly received a boost with star fullback Tom Trbojevic returning after a brief absence due to hamstring tightness.
The Titans, however, suffered a setback as Keano Kini is set to consult a specialist following a neck injury, with Jaylen de Groot stepping in at fullback for their match against the Roosters, who have named Zach Dockar-Clay to replace Connor Watson (head knock).
Kotoni Staggs returns from injury to replace Deine Mariner for the Broncos, while David Klemmer will make his Dragons debut off the bench against the Storm.
In other changes, Joseph Tapine is back from suspension for the Raiders, but Morgan Smithies is sidelined with a head knock. The Sharks have named Tom Hazelton to replace the injured Braden Hamlin-Uele (knee), while Siosifa Talakai has been cleared of serious ankle damage.
