The final weekend of trial games produced much more drama than anticipated, led by Nathan Cleary’s two-game ban for a high tackle.

Nathan Cleary will either be available to play Brisbane in round one or will miss the opening three rounds after Penrith decided to challenge his high tackle ban.

Souths star Brandon Smith has detailed how he’s prevailing against his off-field struggles, crediting the Rabbitohs for the major role they’ve played.

David Fifita is set to play his first game in Rabbitohs colours when Souths battle Manly in the final game of the 2026 Pre-Season Challenge.

Daly Cherry-Evans shows immediate signs of a strong combination with new Roosters halves mate Sam Walker in his first match for his new NRL club. 

The Melbourne Storm will prepare for the NRL Premiership with one final pre-season contest on Saturday evening, facing the Gold Coast Titans on the Sunshine Coast.