NRL update: Penrith chases minor premiership as Sharks prepare debutants

The NRL minor premiership race intensifies as the Penrith Panthers are positioned to claim the top spot. Following the New Zealand Warriors’ narrow 31-30 victory over Manly, the Panthers require only a two-point win against the Wests Tigers to leapfrog the Warriors and secure the minor premiership.

The Warriors, currently on a six-game winning streak, face a precarious hold on first place. A loss in the final round would see them drop from the top position, potentially affecting their hosting status for the finals.

In other news, the Cronulla Sharks are preparing for their upcoming clash against Melbourne amidst injury concerns. Centre Mawene Hiroti is sidelined with a rib injury, prompting several debutants. Riley Jones is set to make his club debut in the centres, while Michael Gabrael and Riley Pollard are also expected to make their NRL appearances as the team manages injuries to key players like Nicho Hynes and KL Iro.