As many as 10 players are set to to make their NRL debuts in the opening round of the competition this weekend.
The Gold Coast and Newcastle lead the way with two each, while another 16 rookies have been named as reserves in extended squads across the league.
Last year’s under-20s player of the year, Jayden Brailey, has the biggest job to fill as Cronulla’s starting hooker.
Young playmakers Jai Field, Brodie Croft and Erin Clark have been named on the benches for St George Illawarra, Melbourne and the Warriors respectively after impressing in the underage competition last year.
The trio are all aged 19, however Canberra centre Nick Cotric has taken the early title of the youngest to debut this season, having only celebrated his 18th birthday last November.
“He’s big, he’s very athletic and we’re pumped to have him on board,” veteran Canberra forward Sia Soliola said of Cotric.
“We’ve got to help him out in that area and try to keep him composed and not lose too much nervous energy before the game.”
At the other end of the scale, Titans duo Dan Sarginson and Joe Greenwood are the oldest, both at age 23.
They are the only two to debut this weekend with top-flight rugby league experience – having combined for more than 185 matches in the English Super League.
Meanwhile, the Knights will add to the 13 players they debuted last year with forwards Luke Yates and Sam Stone – the son of the club’s former coach Rick.
At Manly, Brian Kelly won the race to fill Steve Matai’s boots in the left centre role, after moving from the Gold Coast in the off-season.
The 20-year-old, who is related to former Titans and Cronulla halfback Albert Kelly, impressed Manly teammates and coaching staff over the off-season with his speed and agility.
NRL’S ROUND ONE ROOKIES NAMED TO DEBUT
Brodie Croft – Melbourne
Jayden Brailey – Cronulla
Jai Field – St George Illawarra
Nick Cotric – Canberra
Erin Clark – Warriors
Luke Yates – Newcastle
Sam Stone – Newcastle
Dan Sarginson – Gold Coast
Joe Greenwood – Gold Coast
Brian Kelly – Manly
