NRL Round 8 shake-up: Debutants, positional shifts and new halves pairings
Round 8 of the NRL is set to bring a host of changes to team lineups, with debutants, positional shifts, and new halves pairings taking center stage. The Eels, Cowboys, Sharks, and Raiders have all been forced to make adjustments to their lineups due to injuries, suspensions, and poor form.
Cowboys move Taumalolo to the bench
One of the most significant changes sees Cowboys veteran Jason Taumalolo moved to the bench. The 30-year-old has struggled for form and minutes in recent weeks, leading to his demotion. Griffin Neame will take Taumalolo’s place in the starting lineup.
Sharks and Raiders face halves crisis
Both the Sharks and Raiders have been hit hard by injuries to their halves. The Sharks have lost Braydon Trindall to a failed roadside alcohol and drugs test, while the Raiders have lost Jamal Fogarty to a serious biceps injury. Daniel Atkinson will fill in at five-eighth for the Sharks, while Kaeo Weekes will make his NRL debut at halfback for the Raiders.
Eels make wholesale changes
The Eels have made a number of changes to their lineup after a disastrous performance against the Dolphins. Ethan Sanders will make his NRL debut at halfback, replacing Daejarn Asi, while Maika Sivo returns on the wing. Brendan Hands has also been recalled to take the dummy-half pressure off Joey Lussick.
Debutants galore
Four debutants will feature in Round 8, with David Armstrong, Solomon Alaimalo, Zyon Maiu’u, and Ethan Sanders all set to make their NRL debuts. Armstrong will play fullback for the Knights, Alaimalo will play on the wing for the Wests Tigers, Maiu’u will be on the bench for the Warriors, and Sanders will start at halfback for the Eels.
These changes are sure to have a significant impact on the upcoming round of NRL matches. It will be interesting to see how the new players perform and how the teams adjust to their new lineups. Round 8 promises to be full of excitement and uncertainty.
