It’s NRL finals time. These are the players rivals are tipping to dominate

Rival captains attending the National Rugby League finals launch on Monday identified Penrith halfback Nathan Cleary and Gold Coast Dolphins centre Herbie Farnworth as the primary threats to their respective teams in the upcoming post-season competition. Although Cleary was absent from the event held at the Museum of Contemporary Art, he dominated the conversation among the eight club representatives present. The poll conducted by the media outlet revealed that these two players were viewed as having the highest probability of determining match outcomes over the coming weeks. Other names frequently cited included St George Illawarra Dragons fly-half Kalyn Ponga and South Sydney Rabbitohs halfback Latrell Mitchell. Cleary received similar recognition during last year's finals launch, a period preceding the Panthers' narrow defeat in the preliminary final. This season, the Penrith star has secured the Wally Lewis Medal and the Brad Fittler Medal for his performances in representative rugby league. He is currently considered a leading candidate to claim the Dally M Medal, which would accompany a potential fifth premiership title within a span of six seasons. Farnworth, meanwhile, has demonstrated consistent dominance in the centre position for the Dolphins, who are making their debut in the finals. Scott Sorensen, captain of the Penrith Panthers, highlighted his teammate Cleary as the key internal threat. Sorensen noted that while Cleary has had periods of intense performance in previous years, his current level of consistency is exceptional. Regarding external threats, Sorensen pointed to Sydney Roosters hooker James Tedesco. He observed that Tedesco is managing his physical condition effectively at the optimal time of the year. Sorensen emphasized that Tedesco remains difficult to contain when performing at peak levels, noting that the veteran does not appear to be declining despite his age, a trait shared by Cleary during the recent State of Origin series. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, captain of the New Zealand Warriors, selected Te Maire Martin as the player to monitor within his own squad. Tuivasa-Sheck described Martin as possessing a calm demeanor essential for finals football. He noted that Martin lacks rigid structure, capable of kicking with either foot and running effectively. Tuivasa-Sheck suggested that Martin’s past hiatus from professional sport contributes to a mindset where the game is not his sole focus, allowing him to play freely. On the opposition side, Tuivasa-Sheck focused on Dolphins prop Isaiya Katoa. He praised Katoa’s ability to draw defensive lines inward, thereby creating space for teammates Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Farnworth, and Selwyn Cobbo. Tom Gilbert, representing the Gold Coast Dolphins, named Farnworth as the standout performer for his team. Gilbert stated that Farnworth has established himself as one of the premier centers and overall players in the competition. He remarked that opposing teams dedicate extensive video analysis to studying Farnworth weekly, yet the center continues to deliver decisive contributions. Gilbert added that Farnworth thrives under pressure. As an opposition threat, Gilbert identified Latrell Mitchell. He warned that if Mitchell reaches full fitness, he poses a significant risk due to his status as a major-event player. Gilbert acknowledged that Cleary shares this attribute. James Tedesco, speaking for the Sydney Roosters, chose Salesi Foketi as the player to watch internally. Tedesco commended Foketi’s confidence and willingness to target high-profile opponents, citing a recent encounter with David Fifita. He also highlighted Foketi’s tackling technique and ability to secure low tackles. Externally, Tedesco monitored Taine Tuaupiki of the Warriors. He described Tuaupiki’s development as a fullback as impressive, noting his elusiveness, effective support play, and frequent success in evading defenders. Blake Brailey, captain of the Cronulla Sharks, selected Will Kennedy as the key internal contributor. While acknowledging the impact of Braydon Trindall, Brailey emphasized Kennedy’s intensity, commitment, and running effort, predicting a significant performance from him. For the opposition, Brailey again pointed to Nathan Cleary. The Sharks captain indicated that Cleary’s influence remains a central concern for their preparation. The consensus among the group suggests that the finals will hinge significantly on the form of these specific individuals, particularly Cleary and Farnworth, whose reputations precede them into the knockout rounds.