The departure of veteran halfback Jamal Fogarty has set the stage for a new era at the Canberra Raiders, but the spotlight extends far beyond his direct replacement, young gun Ethan Sanders. As the 2026 NRL season approaches, a core group of Raiders faces defining moments that will shape the club's fortunes.
The Ethan Effect: Strange's Chance to Shine
While all eyes will understandably be on 21-year-old Ethan Sanders as he steps into the number seven jersey vacated by Fogarty, it's his namesake in the six who might feel the shift most profoundly. The exit of the 2025 minor premiers' chief organiser and primary kicker places significantly more responsibility on the shoulders of Ethan Strange.
This comes after a phenomenal breakout year for Strange, who crossed for 14 tries, earned a call-up for the Prime Minister's 13, and was selected in the Kangaroos' Ashes squad. Raiders coach Ricky Stuart has been among his loudest backers, tipping him as the future NSW Blues five-eighth, hinting at a potential State of Origin debut this season.
With Fogarty's reliable boot now at Manly, Strange is expected to take on more tactical kicking duties. His unflappable nature suggests he can thrive under the increased pressure, potentially becoming an even more dangerous weapon for the Green Machine.
Forward Firepower and Selection Headaches
The motivation is burning brightly for enforcer Corey Horsburgh. The consensus is that 'Big Red' was unlucky to miss selection for the Queensland Maroons in 2025, a snub that is sure to fuel his fire for the new campaign. A dominant, firing Horsburgh alongside captain Joe Tapine would give Canberra one of the most formidable starting middle rotations in the competition.
This could also allow veteran great Josh Papali'i to be managed more carefully from the bench in what may be the final chapter of his storied career. Meanwhile, a different kind of battle is brewing on the edges, where coach Stuart faces an embarrassment of riches in the second row.
Hudson Young owns one spot, but Simi Sasagi, Matty Nicholson, Zac Hosking, and Noah Martin are all vying for the other. Sasagi's versatility and development last season, particularly after Nicholson's ankle injury, make him a crucial bench asset. At just 24, his ceiling is still rising, posing a pleasant but difficult selection puzzle for the coaching staff.
New Faces and Point to Prove
Competition for spots is heating up in the centres with the arrival of Sione Finau from the St George Illawarra Dragons. Finau hopes to emulate the instant impact of Savelio Tamale, who left the same club for Canberra and immediately forced his way into the side. His presence will push incumbents Matt Timoko and Sebastian Kris, which should only benefit the Raiders' attacking potency.
Another player with a point to prove is young fullback Chevy Stewart. After being stuck behind star number one Kaeo Weekes last season, Stewart's frustration was palpable and culminated in an off-field incident currently before the NSW courts. With limited interest from other clubs during his exploration period, he appears set to stay in Canberra.
The key question is whether the 20-year-old can channel that frustration into his training and performance, showing Stuart he is ready to seize his next opportunity, or if it will continue to hinder his progress. How he responds will be a telling subplot of the Raiders' pre-season.
With Fogarty's move creating a ripple effect through the squad, the 2026 season is set to test Canberra's depth and the maturity of its emerging stars. The development of the two Ethans, the hunger of Horsburgh, and the resolution of several selection battles will be central to the Raiders' hopes of another premiership charge.
