Newcastle Knights coach Rick Stone has today announced an 18-man squad for Saturday’s season opener against the New Zealand Warriors at Hunter Stadium.
As expected, Stone has selected captain Kurt Gidley at fullback, Akuila Uate and James McManus on the wings while confirming Dane Gagai and Joey Leilua as his centre pairing.
The remainder of the starting side is unchanged from the Knights’ final trial match against the Canberra Raiders; most notably Korbin Sims will start alongside Kade Snowden in the front row.
Tyler Randell, Chris Houston, David Fa’alogo, Jack Stockwell and Sione Mata’utia make up the extended bench, which would be Stockwell’s debut for the Club.
McManus is set to play his 150th NRL/Club game on Saturday, which sees the reunion of the 1988 Knights and the Club celebrating the occasion with an 80s themed game day.
CLICK HERE to view the 18-man squad.
A reminder all three grades are in action this Saturday at Hunter Stadium, with gates opening at 11.45am for NYC to kick off at midday, followed by NSW Cup at 2.10pm before the main game at 4.30pm.
ROUND 1 - Saturday March 7
Newcastle Knights v New Zealand Warriors
Gates open: 11.45am
NYC: 12 noon
NSW Cup: 2.10pm
NRL: 4.30pm
Venue: Hunter Stadium
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Tickets: CLICK HERE
