NRL Match Preview: Raiders v Warriors

Off the back of a thrilling 29-28 Golden Point victory in Round One against Manly, the Raiders will be looking to head home undefeated after starting their season on the road.

In accordance with the NRL concussion protocols, Canberra will be without Josh Papalii this week, seeing Englishman Morgan Smithies promoted to the starting line-up. Papalii’s absence sees youngster Joe Roddy’s inclusion on the six-man bench.

After a match leading 155 run metres in The Knock-On Effect NSW Cup last weekend, Matt Timoko has earnt a spot on the bench, marking his first NRL appearance in 2026.

On the other side of the field, the Warriors are coming off the back of a 42-18 victory against the Sydney Roosters, naming an unchanged side for this week’s showdown.

Talking Points:

• Matt Timoko will make his first appearance in 2026, successfully returning from a pre-season foot injury.
• Joe Roddy earns a spot on the six-man bench, potentially adding to his one NRL appearance in 2025.
• Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will play his 150th game for the Warriors. 

Last time they met:

The Canberra Raiders defeated the New Zealand Warriors 16-10 at Go Media Stadium, Auckland in Round 12 of the 2025 season.

“It’s always a tough game coming up against the Warriors. They had a good Round One win, they will be buzzing and we’re going to bring it to them.”

Sebastian Kris

Key Matchup: Joe Tapine v James Fisher-Harris

Team Captains headline Round Two’s key matchup, as bustling front-rowers and Kiwi teammates Joe Tapine and James Fisher-Harris go head-to-head.

Off the back of receiving his fourth Meninga Medal in 2025, Tapine continues to lead by example in his second season as club Captain.

Fronting a formidable forward pack with the likes of Corey Horsburgh and Hudson Young, Tapine and co continuously demonstrate why the Raiders are one of the most revered packs in the competition.

In Auckland on Friday night, Tapine lines up opposite of international teammate and Captain James Fisher-Harris.

Since his transition to the Warriors last season, Fisher-Harris has mentored a young yet intimidating forward pack, highlighting his leadership credentials.

Fisher-Harris ran for 157 metres in Round One and produced five offloads, demonstrating his ability to keep play alive.

Fans will be closely watching the matchup between two of the NRL’s most fierce front-rowers on Friday night, as both Captains will be hoping to lead their teams to undefeated starts to the season.