Go Media Stadium will play host to Friday's Round 1 NRL game between New Zealand Warriors and Cronulla Sharks. The game kicks off at 6:00 pm with New Zealand Warriors heading into the game as favourites with the bookmakers. Continue reading for our in-depth preview of the New Zealand Warriors vs. Cronulla Sharks game and give you our free tips and bets.

When: Friday March 8, 2024 at 6:00 pm

Where: Go Media Stadium

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

New Zealand Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks Odds

New Zealand Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks Preview

The excitement surrounding the Warriors’ remarkable resurgence in 2023 has barely waned, and the Cronulla Sharks are set to face a packed house at Mt Smart Stadium as they kick off a pivotal season.

After securing a top-four finish for the first time in 16 years and making it to the preliminary finals, the Warriors enter the 2024 season with a strengthened squad. The return of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who will now play at centre, and the addition of seasoned second-rower Kurt Capewell bolster the team’s lineup.

However, the Warriors have been dealt significant blows with the early-season injuries sidelining fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and front-rower Marata Niukore. Their absence will be felt by coach Andrew Webster, who has selected Taine Tuaupiki as Nicoll-Klokstad’s replacement and opted for Luke Metcalf in the five-eighth position after a competitive selection process.

On the other hand, the Sharks experienced a downturn in their 2022 performance, finishing sixth and exiting the playoffs in the first week. Their struggles against top-tier teams worsened as the season progressed, evidenced by a string of losses to higher-ranked opponents.

Despite maintaining roster stability, the Sharks bid farewell to Wade Graham, Matt Moylan, and Connor Tracey, with Braden Hamlin-Uele sidelined due to injury. Facing the Warriors, against whom they have lost ten of their last twelve encounters, the Sharks aim to turn the tide after conceding two memorable defeats in 2023.

In recent years, the Warriors have excelled in Round 1 fixtures, winning five of their last seven matches, while the Sharks have struggled in season openers, winning just one of their last ten.

As they prepare to face off, the Sharks must contain the formidable presence of recruit Addin Fonua-Blake and his teammates. Additionally, Nicho Hynes’ performance will be crucial, as he seeks to match the influence of Shaun Johnson and make an impact even when the going gets tough.

Despite historical expectations, the Warriors have shown promise in preseason trials, and they appear poised to continue their strong record at Mt Smart Stadium, building on last year’s impressive 8-2 home record in style.

New Zealand Warriors head the market are favourites in the market with $1.53 on offer with Aussie betting apps whilst the Cronulla Sharks are outsiders to win at $2.50.

New Zealand Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks Tip

New Zealand Warriors vs Cronulla Sharks Teams

Warriors team: 1. Taine Tuaupiki 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Rocco Berry 4. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 5. Marcelo Montoya 6. Luke Metcalf 7. Shaun Johnson 8. Addin Fonua-Blake 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Jackson Ford 12. Kurt Capewell 13. Tohu Harris 14. Freddy Lussick 15. Tom Ale 16. Bunty Afoa 17. Dylan Walker 18. Adam Pompey 20. Jazz Tevaga 21. Te Maire Martin 22. Ali Leiataua 23. Jacob Laban

Sharks team: 1. William Kennedy 2. Sione Katoa 3. Jesse Ramien 4. Siosifa Talakai 5. Ronaldo Mulitalo 6. Braydon Trindall 7. Nicho Hynes 8. Oregon Kaufusi 9. Blayke Brailey 10. Royce Hunt 11. Briton Nikora 12. Teig Wilton 13. Cameron McInnes 14. Dale Finucane 15. Jack Williams 16. Toby Rudolf 17. Thomas Hazelton 18. Kayal Iro 19. Tuku Hau Tapuha 20. Daniel Atkinson 21. Mawene Hiroti 22. Jayden Berrell