The Canberra Raiders are preparing for a high-stakes season opener against the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, seeking to avenge a painful finals defeat from the previous year. In the 2025 NRL elimination final, the Sharks defeated the Raiders 28-24, ending Canberra's premiership campaign in a dramatic match at GIO Stadium.
Key Raiders players, including captain Elliott Whitehead and halfback Jamal Fogarty, have publicly stated their desire for redemption in the Round 1 clash. The loss was a significant moment, as the Raiders had held a lead late in the game before the Sharks mounted a comeback to secure victory.
The upcoming match, scheduled for March 13, 2026, at PointsBet Stadium, is seen as a critical early test for both teams. The rivalry has intensified, with the Sharks having won three of the last four encounters between the two clubs.
Coach Ricky Stuart has emphasized the importance of starting the new season strongly, using the previous finals heartbreak as motivation. The match is expected to draw significant attention as one of the opening round's most anticipated fixtures.
