Benji’s Nightmare Exposed: Madge Faces Major Haas Selection Dilemma as Wahs Hero Suffers Tragic Setback — Team Tips

The NRL enters Round 11 with injuries, Origin fallout and late selection calls set to shape several key match-ups across the weekend. While some clubs are hoping to regain important stars, others face fresh setbacks that could have major consequences for their season.

Cronulla have the clearest run into their clash with Manly on Friday night, with no new injury or suspension concerns. The Sharks could be boosted by the possible return of skipper Blayke Brailey and prop Addin Fonua-Blake, though Brailey appears the likelier inclusion. Manly, meanwhile, are in a tougher position. With a two-day turnaround after Origin, Haumole Olakau’atu and Tolu Koula are unlikely to back up, Tom Trbojevic remains about three weeks away from returning with a hamstring issue, and Ben Trbojevic is out after a concussion.

Newcastle host Parramatta on Saturday in a game that could see Kalyn Ponga and Jacob Saifiti back up from Origin, depending on how they recover from Wednesday night’s match. Parramatta are among the hardest-hit sides in the competition but are set for a welcome lift, with Isaiah Iongi, Ryley Smith and Sam Tuivaiti all in line to return. Iongi would replace Joash Papali’i at fullback, while Smith is expected to reclaim the No.9 jersey. The Eels are still navigating one of the worst injury tolls in the league, but their returning players would add much-needed stability.

The Tigers will finally regain Api Koroisau after a three-match suspension, a major boost for a side that has badly struggled without him. Wests Tigers went winless during his absence and suffered a heavy points differential. However, the club’s injury problems have worsened, with Jock Madden doubtful due to a hamstring injury and Taylan May ruled out indefinitely. Young prospect Heamasi Makasini could be thrown into the team if fit, while Latu Fainu is expected to partner Jarome Luai in the halves.

The Bulldogs also face a significant blow after Jacob Preston suffered a broken arm and is expected to miss several weeks. Cameron Ciraldo has confirmed Jacob Kiraz will remain at fullback after excelling there, while Stephen Crichton is back from Origin and likely to force changes in the outside backs. Melbourne, by contrast, remain without Xavier Coates for at least three more weeks, while Cam Munster may be rested after Queensland duties. Sydney Roosters players will also be monitored closely after Origin, with several rep stars expected to be given every chance to back up.

Brisbane are hoping Payne Haas is finally ready to return from a knee injury, which would be timely given the Broncos’ three-game losing streak. Ezra Mam and Gehamat Shibasaki are also expected to back up from Origin, while Kotoni Staggs’ likely return from suspension should strengthen the backline. St George Illawarra lost Hayden Buchanan to a shoulder injury last week, and there are doubts over several other outside backs.

On Sunday, Canberra will hope to welcome back Ethan Strange and Hudson Young after Origin, while North Queensland continue their push toward the top four and may regain Reuben Cotter. The round’s biggest spotlight, though, falls on Penrith and the Warriors. The Panthers are expected to juggle multiple Origin players, but the Warriors face a far more serious blow after fears Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has suffered an ACL injury that could end his season and possibly his NRL tenure with the club.