The Penrith Panthers have announced their team list for Round 12 of the 2025 NRL season, set to face the Newcastle Knights at Carrington Park, Bathurst, on Saturday, May 24, at 5:30 PM AEST. This fixture comes during the State of Origin period, necessitating adjustments due to the absence of several key players.
In the backline, Daine Laurie takes the fullback position, bringing his agility and experience to the rear guard. Paul Alamoti and Thomas Jenkins are named on the wings, both known for their speed and finishing abilities. The center positions are occupied by Izack Tago and Casey McLean, who will aim to provide stability and attacking options in the midfield. In the halves, Blaize Talagi partners with Brad Schneider; Talagi, a recent acquisition from the Parramatta Eels, has shown promise with his playmaking skills, while Schneider’s game management will be crucial in directing the team’s offense.
The forward pack is led by props Moses Leota and Matthew Eisenhuth, whose physical presence will be vital in gaining ground. Mitch Kenny, serving as captain, takes the hooker role, offering leadership and defensive tenacity. The second-rowers, Preston Riki and Liam Henry, bring energy and tackling prowess, while Lindsay Smith at lock provides consistency and work rate in the middle of the field.
The interchange bench includes Luke Sommerton, Austin Dias, Luron Patea, and Jack Cole, offering versatility and impact off the bench. Reserves named are Trent Toelau, Zac Lipowicz, Jesse McLean, Harrison Hassett, and Billy Phillips, who stand ready to step in if required.
The Panthers are adapting to the challenges posed by the State of Origin selections, with key players like Dylan Edwards, Brian To’o, Nathan Cleary, Liam Martin, and Isaah Yeo unavailable. This situation provides an opportunity for emerging talents to showcase their abilities on the big stage.
As the Panthers prepare for this crucial encounter, the focus will be on cohesion and executing their game plan effectively. The blend of experienced players and fresh faces will aim to maintain the team’s competitive edge during this demanding period of the season.
The Newcastle Knights, their opponents for this round, are also dealing with the absence of key players due to State of Origin commitments. Notably, Kalyn Ponga is unavailable, leading to Fletcher Sharpe shifting to fullback. Tyson Gamble moves into the five-eighth role, with Jack Cogger at halfback. Kyle McCarthy comes into the centers for his second NRL game, while Dylan Lucas returns to the back row. Leo Thompson returns from concussion protocols, replacing Jacob Saifiti. Jack Hetherington has dropped out of the 17.
Statistical models give the Panthers a significant advantage in this matchup. According to Stats Insider, the Panthers have a 78% chance of winning against the Knights. The predicted final score is Panthers 27, Knights 16.
This Round 12 clash is crucial for both teams as they navigate the challenges of the State of Origin period. The Panthers aim to maintain their position on the ladder, while the Knights look to halt their recent slide. The outcome of this match will have implications for both teams’ trajectories in the 2025 NRL season.
