Raiders' Outside Backs in Focus as Pre-Season Trial Approaches
As the Canberra Raiders gear up for their first NRL pre-season trial against the Melbourne Storm at Seiffert Oval on Friday night, one position group is drawing significant attention from coach Ricky Stuart. While the trials primarily serve to give younger players a taste of top-level football, the competition in the centres is set to intensify, creating what Stuart describes as a "headache" for selection.
Depth and Versatility in the Three-Quarter Line
Stuart has indicated that he will rest a "high number" of his senior NRL players from both pre-season matches, with the exception of the centre and wing positions. This decision highlights the Raiders' abundance of options in the outside backs, where several players are vying for spots. Incumbent centres Matt Timoko and Sebastian Kris face pressure from newcomers and versatile squad members.
Savelio Tamale, who made a strong impression on the wing in his debut season with the Raiders before a knee injury sidelined him, has been training in the centres. Originally debuting in the NRL for St George Illawarra in that position, Tamale's return to the three-quarter line adds depth and competition. Similarly, Simi Sasagi, recruited primarily as a second-rower, has shown his adaptability by training in the centres, a role he frequently played at his previous club, Newcastle.
Additional Options and Strategic Rest
The Raiders have further bolstered their outside back stocks with the signing of Dragons centre Sione Finau, while utility player Daine Laurie could also feature there, though he is targeting a role in the halves. On the wings, options include Xavier Savage, Tamale, Finau, Jed Stuart, and Michael Asomua, with young fullback Chevy Stewart also capable of filling in.
Stuart, who has never been a fan of trial games due to injury risks, plans to keep most senior players fresh for the round one clash against Manly on March 7. He emphasised that the trials are more about assessing depth and providing opportunities for younger talent rather than risking key players. Xavier Savage, for instance, will miss the Storm trial as he attends a wedding in Perth, which also ruled him out of the Indigenous All Stars match.
Coach's Perspective on Pre-Season Challenges
In comments to The Canberra Times, Stuart explained his approach: "I'll be using these trials as an opportunity to get a little bit of an idea on some areas that we've got some depth in positions. But more importantly for younger players to get an opportunity to play that higher class of football." He added, "I see the risk of injury too high in regards to what you can gain from 25 minutes of trial time. I've never believed in trial games."
This strategic focus underscores the Raiders' preparation for the upcoming NRL season, where the battle for centre spots could prove crucial. With the pre-season challenge kicking off at Seiffert Oval, all eyes will be on how the outside backs perform under trial conditions.
