Word out of Tiger-town is that veteran Adam Doueihi has the upper hand over talented youngster Latu Fainu in the battle for the halfback spot under Benji Marshall this season.
A utility back entering his ninth season of NRL, Doueihi can play anywhere in the backline and only played four games at half last season, including the final three.
But the Tigers won two of those three games and the coaching staff feel that Doueihi's experience and superior kicking game have earned him first crack at the spot alongside Jarome Luai.
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The 20-year-old Fainu is certain to get his chance to impress at some stage of the season and may even jag a spot on the bench as the utility back.
Rival teams chasing Manly gun
Manly are working desperately to re-sign brilliant utility back Tolu Koula in the face of mega offers from rival clubs.
Koula comes off contract at the end of this season, with an option in his favour for 2027.
But that means his agent is free to field approaches from clubs now and Manly are trying to lock him up long term to keep the wolves at bay.
Koula had a breakout year last season, with 17 tries in 22 games and creating many more for his outside men with his pace and evasive skills in the centres.
The 23-year-old Tongan international was so impressive that he won the Roy Bull Player of the Year award for Manly, beating a host of big names for the honour.
Big spenders Perth are certain to make a bid for Koula for their debut season in 2027, while the Papua New Guinea Chiefs are also likely to have talks with the speedster.
Panthers pounce on young gun
The Panthers have locked up one of their most promising youngsters on an extended deal.
Tevita Havili, a second-rower from Windsor, has agreed to a two-year contract extension.
The hard-running youngster will be in his first year of the SG Ball Cup this year after shining in the Harold Matthews Cup last season.
Several clubs had their eyes on the 19-year-old, prompting the Panthers to pounce.
120kg giant to bolster Bunnies
The Rabbitohs have been looking for a really big body to hold up the middle since Tom Burgess left the club at the end of 2024.
And they may have found their man in 120kg giant Salesi Ataata.
A hulking young front-rower, Ataata was a shining light for the Bunnies against grown men last year in the NSW Cup and has turned plenty of heads in pre-season training over the summer.
He will start the new season again in the NSW Cup but don't be surprised if he gets a call-up to the Rabbitohs' top squad at some stage of the year.
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