The road to the 2025 NRL Premiership is officially paved, with the eight elite teams securing their spots in what promises to be a fiercely contested finals series. After a gruelling regular season, the competition's best are now set to battle for the ultimate glory in Australian rugby league.
The Final Eight: Who Made The Cut?
The Penrith Panthers have once again demonstrated their dominance, clinching the minor premiership and securing a crucial top-two finish. They are joined by the Melbourne Storm, who have consistently proven to be a formidable force in the post-season. The Sydney Roosters and Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks round out the top four, earning themselves a coveted double chance in the first week of the finals.
The remaining four spots were fiercely contested until the final whistle of the regular season. The Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles, Canberra Raiders, North Queensland Cowboys, and the Brisbane Broncos have all booked their tickets to the finals, each carrying a unique blend of experience and raw talent that could see them make a deep run.
Week One Finals Fixtures: A Blockbuster Line-Up
The first week of the finals promises unmissable action with two qualifying finals and two elimination finals on the cards.
Qualifying Finals:
- Panthers vs Sharks: A classic clash that will test Penrith's attacking flair against Cronulla's resilient defence.
- Storm vs Roosters: A heavyweight bout between two of the competition's most successful modern-era clubs.
Elimination Finals:
- Sea Eagles vs Broncos: A sudden-death showdown where one team's season will come to a heartbreaking end.
- Raiders vs Cowboys: A brutal encounter between two physical sides known for their never-say-die attitudes.
Expert Analysis: Who Are The Favourites?
While the Panthers are the obvious favourites to claim a historic fourth consecutive premiership, the finals are a different beast entirely. The Melbourne Storm, with their unparalleled big-game experience, are always a threat. The Sydney Roosters, boasting a roster brimming with representative stars, cannot be discounted.
The real danger, however, may lie with the teams outside the top four. The Brisbane Broncos, with nothing to lose, possess the attacking firepower to upset any team on their day. This year's finals series is shaping up to be one of the most open and unpredictable in recent memory, ensuring every match will be must-watch viewing for rugby league fans across the globe.
