Queensland Country Bank Stadium will play host to Saturday's Round 1 NRL game between North Queensland Cowboys and Canberra Raiders. The game kicks off at 5:30 pm with North Queensland Cowboys heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the North Queensland Cowboys vs. Canberra Raiders game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Saturday March 4, 2023 at 5:30 pm

Where: Queensland Country Bank Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

North Queensland Cowboys vs Canberra Raiders Odds

North Queensland Cowboys vs Canberra Raiders Preview

The North Queensland Cowboys are no longer considered underdogs after their impressive performance last season, which saw them reach the preliminary finals. They will be aiming to build on this success when they welcome the Canberra Raiders to their home ground in the opening round. However, the Raiders have not had a promising preseason, losing both of their matches, including a heavy defeat to the Tigers while playing close to their best lineup.

Despite the loss of Tom Gilbert, the Cowboys’ best 17 is largely unchanged from last season, with the addition of James Tamou on the bench. On the other hand, the Raiders have lost key players Josh Hodgson, Adam Elliott, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad over the offseason, but Danny Levi is set to make his club debut as the starting hooker. Seb Kris will replace the injured Xavier Savage at fullback for the opening six weeks of the season.

Both teams will be eager to start the season on a positive note and set the tone for their 2023 campaign. The Cowboys will be looking to continue their momentum from last season and prove that they are a genuine contender for the premiership, while the Raiders will be hoping to bounce back from their disappointing preseason and improve on their ninth-place finish from last year. It promises to be an exciting clash between two teams with a point to prove.