Las Vegas 2026: Bulldogs, Cowboys, Dragons, Knights reveal Round 1 team lists

The four NRL clubs travelling to Las Vegas for the season's blockbuster opener at Allegiant Stadium have named their first sides of the 2026 season with a number of big name players set to return from injury and make their club debuts.

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs 

Cameron Ciraldo has named a strong Bulldogs side ahead of his side's Las Vegas showdown with the Dragons, headlined by Matt Burton’s inclusion in the halves and Sam Hughes starting in the front row. 

With the NRL’s new six-man bench in play, the Bulldogs have opted for versatility across the interchange, selecting Kurt Mann, Sitili Tupouniua, Harry Hayes, Josh Curran, new signing Sean O'Sullivan and Jake Turpin. Canterbury will feature in the final game of the Allegiant Stadium triple-header, closing out the historic US event.

North Queensland Cowboys

Todd Payten has named a 22-man squad for the Cowboys’ season opener against Newcastle, with the possibility of up to four club debutants. Reed Mahoney is the only confirmed new starter, named at hooker, while Soni Luke, Liam Sutton and Matt Lodge remain in contention for debuts. 

Jaxon Purdue will start at centre, with Jake Clifford partnering Tom Dearden in the halves. Sam McIntyre shifts into the starting second row due to Jeremiah Nanai’s shoulder injury, and Griffin Neame has overcome shoulder and calf issues to earn a place on the bench.

St George Illawarra Dragons

Shane Flanagan has named his squad for what shapes as one of the biggest openers in club history, taking the fierce rivalry with Canterbury to Las Vegas.Setu Tu will make his NRL debut on the wing, while Daniel Atkinson makes his club debut at halfback alongside Kyle Flanagan. 

Local juniors Toby Couchman and Hamish Stewart have both secured starting roles, Ryan Couchman has been named in jersey No.17 as he eyes a return from a long-term ACL injury, and Josh Kerr joins the interchange for his first appearance as a Dragon since 2023.

Newcastle Knights

Justin Holbrook has confirmed a 22-man Knights squad for their historic clash with North Queensland. Fletcher Sharpe and Dylan Brown will combine in the halves, with Sandon Smith named on the bench in the No.14 jersey.

Brown, Smith and fellow recruit Trey Mooney will all make their official club debuts. Kalyn Ponga returns at fullback and will captain Newcastle in the club’s first ever match in the United States.