The New Zealand Warriors are gearing up for the 2026 NRL season, and coach Andrew Webster has his work cut out for him. With a host of new recruits and a few key players returning from injury, Webster must navigate a tricky selection process to form a competitive squad. But who will make the cut? Let's take a closer look at some of the key decisions Webster faces.
The Fullback Dilemma
One of the first decisions Webster must make is at fullback. Will he stick with the experienced Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, or give the younger, more dynamic Taine Tuaupiki a chance in the number one jumper? Tuaupiki showed promise late last season, but the Warriors lost two of the three games he started. Nicoll-Klokstad, on the other hand, is a reliable option, but his form has been questioned.
Alofiana Khan-Pereira: A Gamble Worth Taking?
Another player Webster must consider is Alofiana Khan-Pereira, a former Titans flyer. Khan-Pereira is a noted try scorer, but he also has a history of letting tries in defensively. Is he worth the risk? Webster must weigh up the potential rewards against the possible consequences.
Luke Metcalf's Return
All eyes will be on Luke Metcalf when he returns from knee surgery. Will he regain the electrifying pace that propelled the club to a strong start in 2025? If not, Webster may consider blooding Jett Cleary, the younger brother of Nathan, who is a first-grader in waiting. Metcalf's return is a key moment for the team, and his performance will be crucial.
Forwards: A Solid Foundation
The forwards present less of a headache for Webster. He must decide if he will immediately introduce Leeds recruit Morgan Gannon or give him time to adjust to the southern hemisphere pace. The forwards have the potential to over-power any team on their day, especially if Leka Halasima continues to improve on his inspirational efforts from last year.
2026 Gains and Losses
The Warriors have made some key gains and losses in the off-season. Morgan Gannon and Alofiana Khan-Pereira join the squad from Leeds and the Gold Coast Titans, respectively. However, Bunty Afoa, Tom Ale, and Toby Crosby are among the players who have departed. The team's depth and strength will be tested in the coming season.
Best Buy: Alofiana Khan-Pereira
Khan-Pereira could be a dark horse for the top try scorer title in 2026, given his ability to score tries. However, he must first secure a spot in the team and address his defensive issues. Webster must decide if the potential rewards outweigh the risks.
It's a Big Season for Mitchell Barnett
Mitchell Barnett, who has decided to return to Australia for personal reasons in 2027, needs to convince fans of his commitment to the club. He is a true professional, and his loyalty will be tested. Webster must assess if Barnett can still be a key player for the Warriors.
The Biggest Question Mark
The perennial question with the Warriors is whether they can match their talent with discipline over 80 minutes. Can they avoid lapses in discipline that have cost them in the past? Webster must address this issue if the team is to make a serious run at the finals.
Predicted Finish: 6th
Despite the talent and potential, the Warriors are predicted to finish 6th. This is a cautious prediction, given the team's history of fading in the second half of the season. Webster must ensure that the team remains focused and disciplined throughout the year.
Best 19-Man Squad
Here is a predicted best 19-man squad for the Warriors in 2026. The selection process will be a challenging one for Webster, and the team's success will depend on his ability to make the right choices. Will the Warriors be able to rise to the challenge and make a run at the premiership?
