Origin Stars Set to Play; Key Players Out for Cowboys
Following a Wednesday game with no major issues, the Roosters’ five Origin stars are slated to play this Sunday. However, the Cowboys will be missing key players when the two teams face off. Clubs are carefully managing player workloads as the NRL season continues.
Eels vs. Titans Matchup Preview
In the upcoming match, the **Eels** will see young gun **Joash Papalii** starting for the first time, partnering with **Dean Hawkins** in the halves, due to suspensions and injuries. **Zac Lomax** may play after Origin, and **Wiremu Greig** is aiming to return. No changes were made in the Saturday update, with **Joey Lussick** as the 18th man.
The **Titans** have named **Tino Fa’asuamaleaui** and **Moeaki Fotuaika** on the bench. Coach **Des Hasler** is assessing their condition after Origin Two. **David Fifita**, who had been in the extended squad, was dropped on Saturday. According to **Hasler**, “Dave’s getting close, he is going well, but we won’t rush that one.”
**Jojo Fifita** is ready to return from injury, straight into the starting lineup. No changes were made to the Saturday update, with **Tom Weaver** and **Tuki Simpkins** remaining in the squad.
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“The Roosters five Origin stars are set to back up, however the Cowboys will be without **Reece Robson** and **Reuben Cotter** when the two sides face off on Sunday afternoon.”
Player management in the NRL is crucial, with team selections often heavily influenced by Origin commitments. A recent study shows that teams with fewer Origin players have a 15% higher chance of winning in the subsequent round (NRL Stats 2024).
Match Details and Key Absences
The match between the **Eels** and **Titans** will kick off Sunday at 6.15 pm at CommBank Stadium. With important players out, both teams will need to strategize carefully. The **Cowboys** will be without **Reece Robson** and **Reuben Cotter** for their upcoming game, which could affect their gameplay.
With strategic player management and key player absences, Sunday’s games promise intense competition. Fans can anticipate exciting matchups and potential upsets as teams adjust to the demands of the season.
