Ones to Watch In The 2008 NRL Season

Celebrating its centennial year, the 26-Round NRL (National Rugby League) 2008 season starts this Friday March 14.

Each team will play 24 matches in the season proper with two byes and two mid-season breaks for State of Origin clashes – May 21 and June 11.

Setting the benchmark last year, Melbourne Storm won 21 of its 24 fixtures, finished two games clear on top of the ladder and went on to win the Premiership Cup.

Brisbane Broncos

Year entered premiership: 1988 Home ground: Suncorp Stadium Premierships: 6 Last three years: 2007 – qualifying final; 2006 – premiers; 2005 – semi-final Coach: Wayne Bennett Captain: Darren Lockyer

In: Joel Clinton (Panthers), Peter Wallace (Panthers), PJ Marsh (Eels), Ashton Sims (Dragons), Tom Hewitt (Dragons), Reece Robinson (Sharks)

Out: Petero Civoniceva (Penrith), Brad Thorn (Crusaders RU), Shaun Berrigan (Hull), Brent Tate (NZ Warriors), Dane Carlaw (Catalan Dragons)

Key player: Karmichael Hunt: With Darren Lockyer likely to take time to regain his magic touch following his knee reconstruction, Hunt will assume more attacking responsibility. Hunt loves the ball in his hands and expect to see him and Justin Hodges "connect" more this season.

One to watch: Dave Taylor. If young prop Taylor delivers the goods this season, he could be Brisbane's trump card. He is a super talent with size, speed and skills not seen in a young front rower since Adam Ritson.

Best team: Karmichael Hunt, Darius Boyd, Steve Michaels, Justin Hodges, Denan Kemp, Darren Lockyer, Peter Wallace, Joel Clinton, PJ Marsh, Ben Hannant, Ashton Sims, Corey Parker, Greg Eastwood. Reserves: David Stagg, Sam Thaiday, Tonie Carroll, David Taylor.

Bulldogs

Ben Roberts of the Bulldogs passes the ball during the round 18 NRL match between the Bulldogs and the Penrith Panthers at Telstra Stadium July 14, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. (Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1934 Home ground: ANZ Stadium Premierships: 8 Last three years: 2007 – Semi-final; 2006 – Preliminary final; 2005 – 12th Coach: Steve Folkes Captain: Andrew Ryan

In: Michael Sullivan (Warrington), Charlie Leaeno (Dragons), Aaron Groom (Sea Eagles), Justin Tsoulos (Eels), Danny Williams (Roosters)

Out: Willie Mason (Roosters), Mark O'Meley (Roosters), Brent Sherwin (Castleford), Dallas McIlwain (Wynnum Manly), Adam Brideson (Wynnum Manly), Adam Perry (Junee), Karl Filiga (Sharks), Trent Cutler (released), Aaron Wheatley (released), Jon Green (Dragons), Billy Ngawini (Titans)

Key player: Sonny Bill Williams. Undoubtedly the most dangerous attacking forward in the game, he also hits like a sledgehammer in defence. His ability to injury free will decide whether the Bulldogs have any chance at reaching the finals in 2008.

One to watch: Ben Roberts. The halves has been a troublesome area for the Bulldogs in recent seasons and the loss of Brent Sherwin puts full responsibility on New Zealand Test halfback Roberts. An off-season working with great Andrew Johns will hopefully take the Kiwi's game to the next level.

Best team: Luke Patten, Hazem El Masri, Daryl Millard, Willie Tonga, Cameron Phelps, Daniel Holdsworth, Ben Roberts, Chris Armit, Corey Hughes, Charlie Leaeno, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Ryan (c), Reni Maitua. Interchange: Jarrad Hickey, Kane Cleal, Michael Sullivan, Nick Kouparitsas

North Queensland Cowboys

Luke O'Donnell of the Cowboys looks to offload the ball despite the defence of Ryan Hinchcliffe of the Raiders during the NRL trial match between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Canberra Raiders at Dairy Farmers Stadium March 1, 2008 in Townsville, Australia. (Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1995 Home ground: Dairy Farmers Stadium, Townsville Premierships: 0 Last three years: 2007 – Preliminary finalist; 2006 – 9th; 2005 – runners-up. Coach: Graham Murray Captain: Johnathan Thurston

In: Travis Burns (Manly), Ben Harris (Bradford Bulls), Anthony Watts (Sharks), Dayne Weston (Cronulla), Daniel Backo (Mackay), John Williams (Roosters), Anthony Perkins (Brisbane Norths).

Out: Paul Bowman (retired), Jason Smith (retired), Scott Minto (retired), Brenton Bowen (Gold Coast Titans), Rod Jensen (Huddersfield).

Key player: Johnathan Thurston - yet again. Carried an injury-hit Cowboys to the NRL preliminary final with two dodgy shoulders last season. And won the Dally M Medal for the second time. The mind boggles at what a fully fit Thurston will do when he finally gets on the field in what looks like round five following two shoulder reconstructions.

One to watch: Luke O'Donnell. After missing the majority of last season due to an horrific hamstring injury, the former Test and NSW Origin backrower will be out to make up for lost time. Has already come out to say he won't be out for a "square up" against Wests Tigers who tore his hamstring off the bone in an ugly "wish bone" tackle. In other words, O'Donnell will be out to make an example of the Wests Tigers, next time they cross paths.

Best team: Matt Bowen, Mark Henry, Ben Harris, Ash Graham, Ty Williams, Travis Burns, Johnathan Thurston, Matthew Scott, Aaron Payne, Shane Tronc, Luke O'Donnell, Carl Webb, Justin Smith. Interchange: David Faiumu, Sione Faumuina, Steve Southern, Jacob Lillyman.

St George Illawarra Dragons

Rangi Chase of the Dragons is held by Darius Boyd of the Broncos during the round 12 NRL match between the St George Illawarra Dragons and the Brisbane Broncos at OKI Jubilee Stadium June 1, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. (Ezra Shaw/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1999 (St George 1921; Illawarra 1982) Home grounds: WIN Stadium (Wollongong), ANZ Stadium (Sydney) Premierships: 0 (St George 15; Illawarra: 0) Last three years: 2007 – 13th; 2006 – Preliminary Final; 2005 – Preliminary Final Coach: Nathan Brown Captain: Mark Gasnier

In: Jarrod Saffy (Tigers), Kirk Reynoldson (Knights)

Out: Wes Naiqama, Keith Lulia, Danny Wicks and Chris Houston (Knights), Charlie Leaeno (Bulldogs), Ashton Sims and Tom Hewitt (Broncos), Corey Payne (Tigers), Adam Peek (Sharks)

Key player: Mark Gasnier. A pectoral muscle tear ruined his 2007 season but the man once considered the world's best centre is determined to make amends. His deceptive footwork and turn of pace makes him a constant menace for the opposition.

One to watch: Rangi Chase. Capped his debut season with a Kiwi Test tour to England. Just 21, Chase is quickly developing as a dangerous ball runner who isn't afraid to attack the defensive line.

Best team: Josh Morris, Jason Nightingale, Mark Gasnier, Matt Cooper, Brett Morris, Rangi Chase, Ben Hornby, Justin Poore, Simon Woolford, Jason Ryles, Ben Creagh, Kirk Reynoldson, Dean Young. Interchange: Beau Scott, Stuart Webb, Jamie Soward, Jarrod Saffy.

Parramatta Eels

Year entered premiership: 1947 Home ground: Parramatta Stadium Premierships: 4 Last three years: 2007 – Preliminary finalist; 2006 – Qualifying finalist; 2005 – Preliminary finalist Coach: Michael Hagan Captain: Nathan Cayless

In: Joe Galuvao (Souths).

Out: Timana Tahu (NSW Waratahs), PJ Marsh (Broncos), Ian Hindmarsh (retired), Aaron Cannings (Titans), Justin Tsoulos (Bulldogs), Blake Green (Sharks), Richard Fa'aoso (Knights).

Key player: Krisnan Inu. Many raised eyebrows when he was selected to make his Test debut after just one NRL game, but by the end of the season it was easy to see why. Inu had a freakish ability to get over the line from impossible situations, and now that he's moved infield from out on the wing, he looms as the danger man of the Eels backline.

One to watch: Tim Mannah. Captain of the Eels' under 20's side, this young prop showed he was ready for the big time when he held his own in a trial match against Penrith warhorse Petero Civoniceva. Massive build and youthful exuberance, he's one that Eels officials believe could make the step up this year.

Best team: Luke Burt, Joel Reddy, Jarryd Hayne, Krisnan Inu, Eric Grothe, Brett Finch, Tim Smith, Nathan Cayless, Mark Riddell, Fuifui Moimoi, Nathan Hindmarsh, Ben Smith, Feleti Mateo. Interchange: Matt Keating, Weller Hauraki, Josh Cordoba, Chad Robinson.

Newcastle Knights

Wes Naiqama of the Knights runs the ball during the NRL trial match between the Warriors and the Newcastle Knights at North Harbour Stadium on February 15, 2008 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Hannah Johnston/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1988 Home grounds: EnergyAustralia Stadium Premierships: 2 Last three years: 2007 – 15th; 2006 – semi-final; 2005 – last Coach: Brian Smith Captain: Danny Buderus

In: Danny Wicks, Chris Houston, Wes Naiqama, Keith Lulia (all Dragons), Richard Fa'aoso (Eels), Matt Hilder (Titans), Cameron Ciraldo (Sharks), Ben Cross (Storm), Sione Finefeuiaki (Sea Eagles)

Out: Andrew Johns (retired), Luke Davico (retired), Adam Woolnough (Panthers), Josh Perry (Sea Eagles), Kirk Reynoldson (Dragons), Brad Tighe (Panthers), Kade Snowden (Sharks), David Seage (Wynnum Manly), Milton Thaiday (Central Charlestown), Riley Brown (Roosters), Daniel Abraham (Central Coast), Reegan Tanner, George Carmont, Trent Salkeld (all released)

Key player: Kurt Gidley. Rocketed into the NSW Origin and Australian Test teams last year with his starring performances at the Knights. Can change the game with his turn of speed and has developed into a dangerous fullback.

One to watch: Wes Naiqama. Reformed bad boy trying to make a fresh start at the Knights after three turbulent years with the Dragons. Coming off a knee reconstruction and with his periodic jail sentence complete, the Fijian international has the potential to become one of the game's more damaging centres.

Best team: Kurt Gidley, James McManus, Adam MacDougall, Wes Naiqama, Cooper Vuna, Jarrod Mullen, Luke Walsh, Ben Cross, Danny Buderus (capt), Danny Wicks, Chris Houston, Steve Simpson, Cory Paterson. Interchange: Mitchell Sargent, Michael Young, Daniel Tolar, Zeb Taia

Penrith Panthers

Michael Jennings of the Panthers runs with the ball during the NRL trial match between the Bulldogs and the Penrith Panthers at ANZ Stadium on March 2, 2008 in Sydney, Australia. (Matt King/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1967 Home ground: CUA Stadium, Penrith. Premierships: 2 Last three years: 2007 – 16th; 2006 – 12th; 2005 – 10th Coach: Matthew Elliott Captain: Petero Civoniceva In: Petero Civoniceva (Brisbane), Brad Tighe and Adam Woolnough (Newcastle), Joe Williams (Souths), Josh McCrone (Canberra).

Out: Joel Clinton and Peter Wallace (Brisbane), Craig Gower (Bayonne - rugby union), Bryan Norrie (Sharks), Matt Cross (Gold Coast), Liam Campbell (Brisbane Easts), Nick Youngquest (Wests Tigers), Chevvy Penehoe (Bulldogs), Brett Firman and Liam Georgetown (released).

Key player: Petero Civoniceva. Not only is the giant prop one of the best players in the game he is also a consummate professional and will have a huge impact both on and off the field at his new club. Will lead by example in a bid to inspire a Panthers pack that has underachieved for several seasons.

One to watch: Michael Jennings. In this rookie season, he was one of the brightest lights in a dark year for the Panthers. Boasts electrifying pace and scoring instinct, and in an ominous warning to his NRL rivals. Matthew Elliott believes the centre still has plenty of improvement in him.

Best team: Rhys Wesser, Luke Rooney, Michael Jennings, Brad Tighe, Michael Gordon, Luke Lewis, Jarrod Sammut, Petero Civoniceva, Luke Priddis, Adam Woolnough, Frank Pritchard, Tony Puletua, Trent Waterhouse. Interchange: Nathan Smith, Paul Aiton, Frank Puletua, Joe Williams.

South Sydney Rabbitohs

Eddy Pettybourne of the Rabbitohs kicks the ball during the NRL Charity Shield match between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the St George Illawarra Dragons at ANZ Stadium on March 1, 2008 in Sydney, Australia. (Brendon Thorne/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1908 Home ground: ANZ Stadium Premierships: 20 Last three years: 2007 – Qualifying finalist; 2006 – 15th (last); 2005 – 13th Coach: Jason Taylor Captain: Roy Asotasi, David Kidwell

In: Ben Lowe (Cowboys), Craig Wing (Roosters)

Out: Peter Cusack (Hull), Joe Galuvao (Eels), Daniel Irvine (retired), Paul Mellor (retired), David Peachey (retired), Shane Rigon (retired), Reece Simmonds (retired), Stuart Webb (Dragons), Joe Williams (Panthers)

Key player: Craig Wing - The Rabbitohs struggled in attack in 07 as they shuffled their halves around looking for a combination that would gel. Wing will bring experience, skill and leadership to their troubled creative department.

One to watch: Eddy Pettybourne. A strapping young back-rower and Souths junior with big raps around the club. Big, skillful and ready to join the likes of Asotasi, Kidwell and Fa'alogo.

Best team: Nathan Merritt, Shannon Hegarty, Yileen Gordon, Nigel Vagana, Fetuli Talanoa, Ben Rogers, Craig Wing, Roy Asotasi, Issac Luke, Scott Geddes, David Kidwell, David Fa'alogo, John Sutton. Interchange: Eddie Paea, Manase Manuokafoa, Jaiman Lowe, Luke Stuart.

Sydney Roosters

Year entered premiership: 1908 Home ground: Sydney Football Stadium Premierships: 12 Last three years: 2007 – 10th; 2006 – 14th; 2005 – Ninth Coach: Brad Fittler Captain: Craig Fitzgibbon

In: Willie Mason (Bulldogs), Mark O'Meley (Bulldogs), James Aubusson (Storm), Brent Grose (Warrington), Riley Brown (Knights).

Out: Craig Wing (Souths), Joel Monaghan (Raiders), Ashley Harrison (Titans), Heath L'Estrange (Sea Eagles), Chris Beattie (Lezignan), Charlie Tonga (Huddersfield), John Williams (Cowboys), Danny Williams (Bulldogs).

Key player: Willie Mason. He gives the Roosters something they haven't had since Adrian Morley returned to the UK - a bit of mongrel. If Mason can get the Roosters going forward, there is enough class in the backs to push for a top four berth.

One to watch: Ben Jones. Nuggety five-eighth tipped to play some first grade in his first year out of high school. Held in such high regard that some Roosters officials believe he could squeeze Braith Anasta out of five-eighth and into lock.

Best team: Anthony Minichiello, Amos Roberts, Iosia Soliola, Sam Perrett, Shaun Henny-Dowall, Braith Anasta, Mitchell Pearce, Mark O'Meley, James Aubusson, David Shillington, Willie Mason, Anthony Tupou, Craig Fitzgibbon. Interchange: Nate Myles, Riley Brown, Danny Nutley, Lopini Paea.

Manly Sea Eagles

Year entered premiership: 1947 Home ground: Brookvale Oval Premierships: 6 Last three years: 2007 – Runners Up 2006 – Semi-finalist; 2005 – Qualifying finalist Coach: Des Hasler Captain: Matt Orford

In: Josh Perry (Knights), Heath L'Estrange (Roosters), David Vaealiki (Wigan), David Williams (Eels), Tom Browne (Rabbitohs), Lui Toimoana (Auckland Lions), Jared Waera-Hargreaves (NSWRU)

Out: Michael Monaghan (Warrington), Travis Burns (Cowboys), Chris Hicks (Warrington), Sione Finefeuiaki (Knights), Aaron Groom (Bulldogs)

Key player: Brett Stewart. An outstanding fullback who was rewarded with both Test and NSW selection last year. Exceptionally quick, Stewart is the Eagles' go-to man, a prolific tryscorer.

One to watch: Michael Bani. A Torres Strait islander who impressed in his small taste of NRL action last year. A tall, strong and fast winger who should cement a first grade spot in 2008.

Best team: Brett Stewart, Michael Robertson, Steven Bell, Steve Matai, Michael Bani, Jamie Lyon, Matt Orford, Jason King, Matt Ballin, Brent Kite, Anthony Watmough, Glenn Stewart, Luke Williamson. Interchange: Steve Menzies, Mark Bryant, Josh Perry, Adam Cuthbertson.

Cronulla Sharks

Year entered premiership: 1967 Home ground: Toyota Stadium Premierships: 0 Last three years: 2007 – 11th; 2006 – 13th; 2005 – Qualifying finalist Coach: Ricky Stuart Captain: Paul Gallen

In: Blake Green (Eels), Kade Snowden (Knights), Adam Peek (Dragons), Bryan Norrie (Panthers), Karl Filiga (Bulldogs).

Out: Adam Dykes (Hull), Craig Stapleton (Salford), Dayne Weston (Cowboys), Cameron Ciraldo (Knights), Anthony Watts (Cowboys).

Key player: Greg Bird. Propelled into the Australian team to replace Test skipper Darren Lockyer and he didn't let anyone down. Has finally found a way to channel his aggressive instincts with some skillful ball playing and his combination with skipper Paul Gallen is one of the NRL's best one-two combinations.

One to watch: Karlos Filiga. Received plenty of press when he was signed on a huge deal from the Bulldogs midway through last year. Yet to taste the top flight, but his combination of power and speed means it's a matter of when, not if. Has been compared to a young Sonny Bill Williams in physique and ability.

Best team: Mitch Brown, David Simmons, Ben Pomeroy, Fraser Anderson, Luke Covell, Greg Bird, Brett Kimmorley, Paul Gallen (capt), Reece Williams, Lance Thompson, Luke Douglas, Kevin Kingston, Ben Ross. Interchange: Blake Green, Karl Filiga, Jacob Selmes, Adam Peek.

Melbourne Storm

Will Chambers of the Storm runs through an agility drill during the Melbourne Storm NRL training session at MC labour Park on May 16, 2007 in Melbourne, Australia. (Quinn Rooney/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 1998 Home ground: Olympic Park. Premierships: 2 Last three years: 2007 – Premiers; 2006 – runner up; 2005 – semi-finals Coach: Craig Bellamy Captain: Cameron Smith

In: Nil

Out: Ben Cross (Knights), Matt King (Warrington), James Aubusson (Roosters), Clint Newton (Hull KR), Ryan Shortland (Warriors).

Key player: Israel Folau. Best teenage talent in the game whose debut season was simply remarkable. Broke the club's tryscoring record, claimed Rookie of the Year honours and won a Test jumper. Big, strong and impossible to stop close to the line.

One to watch: Will Chambers. Direct from the Greg Inglis Israel Folau production line comes another highly touted young outside back in Chambers. Originally from the Northern Territory, Chambers is built like his predecessors (ie, big/strong/fast) and tipped to be equally spectacular.

Best team: Billy Slater, Steve Turner, Will Chambers, Israel Folau, Anthony Quinn, Greg Inglis, Cooper Cronk, Brett White, Cameron Smith, Antonio Kaufusi, Michael Crocker, Ryan Hoffman, Dallas Johnson. Interchange: Adam Blair, Jeremy Smith, Jeff Lima, Matt Geyer.

Gold Coast Titans

Year entered premiership: 2007 Home ground: Skilled Park Premierships: 0 Last three years: 2005 and 2006 – N/A. 2007 – 12th Coach: John Cartwright Captains: Scott Prince and Luke Bailey

In: Aaron Cannings (Parramatta), Matthew Cross (Penrith), Brenton Bowen (North Queensland), Ashley Harrison (Sydney Roosters), Ben Jeffrey (Wests Tigers).

Out: Jake Webster (Hull Kingston Rovers), Richie Mathers (Wigan), David Myles (retired), Matt Hilder (Newcastle).

Key player: Scott Prince - Take out the classy No.7 and the Titans fall to pieces. After a year commanding the same faces, the little general will be even more dangerous in 2008.

One to watch: Shannon Walker. Expect this teenage sensation to make his NRL debut sooner rather than later. He possesses electrifying speed and can create a try out of nothing. He'll create a real buzz when he reaches the big stage.

Best team: Preston Campbell, Matt Petersen, Luke O'Dwyer, Brett Delaney, Chris Walker, Mat Rogers, Scott Prince, Luke Bailey, Nathan Friend, Aaron Cannings, Anthony Laffranchi, Mark Minichiello, Ashley Harrison. Interchange: Michael Henderson, Brad Meyers, Clint Amos, Luke Swain.

Wests Tigers

Chris Lawrence of the Tigers takes a high ball in-goal during the round 23 NRL match between the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks and the Wests Tigers at Toyota Park August 18, 2007 in Sydney, Australia. (Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)

Year entered premiership: 2000 (joint venture from Western Suburbs 1908 and Balmain 1908) Home grounds: Leichhardt Oval, Campbelltown Sports Stadium, ANZ Stadium Premierships: 1 Last three years: 2007 – 9th; 2006 – 11th; 2005 – Premiers Coach: Tim Sheens Captain: Brett Hodgson

In: Corey Payne, Mathew Head (Hull), Todd Bridge (Taree), Nick Youngquest (Penrith), Linton Price, Benson Tupou and Noah Fotu (Leeton)

Out: Ben Jeffrey (Gold Coast), Jason Moodie (retired), Paul Whatuira (Huddersfield), Ben Galea and Daniel Fitzhenry (both Hull), Jarrod Saffy (Dragons)

Key player: Benji Marshall. One of the game's most gifted and natural playmakers. The Tigers' premiership aspirations hinge on him staying on the park and avoiding the shoulder problems that have savaged his past couple of seasons.

One to watch: Chris Lawrence. The teenage sensation is one of the most exciting young talents in the NRL. Fast, strong and versatile, and boasts a lethal strike rate, scoring 16 tries in his 18 appearances last season.

Best team: Brett Hodgson, Nick Youngquest, Dean Collis, Chris Lawrence, Taniela Tuiaki, Benji Marshall, John Morris, Todd Payten, Robbie Farah, Keith Galloway, Danny Galea, Chris Heighington, Liam Fulton. Interchange: Dean Halatau, Bronson Harrison, Bryce Gibbs, Corey Payne.