The Warriors seek to rebound at Eden Park against a confident Newcastle side chasing its first preliminary-final appearance since 2013.

When: Sunday September 20, 2026 at 4:05 pm

Where: Eden Park

Bet 💰: Bet On This Match HERE

New Zealand Warriors vs Newcastle Knights Odds

New Zealand Warriors vs Newcastle Knights Preview

New Zealand shifts its home semi-final to Eden Park seeking a response after a 26-16 qualifying-final loss to the Dolphins. The Warriors had won six consecutive matches before that setback and defeated Newcastle twice during the regular season, while their most recent finals meeting produced a 40-10 victory in 2023. Jackson Ford is unavailable after sustaining an ankle injury on his return, with Morgan Gannon joining the interchange. Leka Halasima and Dallin Watene-Zelezniak are listed among the reserves as they push to overcome hamstring and collarbone injuries respectively. Newcastle arrives with confidence after eliminating South Sydney 20-10 and has retained the same squad, including Dylan Lucas on the extended bench following his ankle injury. Dominic Young provides a major attacking threat, but the Warriors’ strong record against Newcastle in New Zealand and their ability to control first halves give them the clearer route forward.