The New Zealand Warriors face one of the greatest challenges any sporting team can face this year: Losing two of their veteran heroes. For the Kiwi club, it’s two genuine legends in Shaun Johnson and Tohu Harris.
Retirement came for both between 2024 and 2025 and now Andrew Webster is facing an uphill battle replacing them with like-for-like stars that can keep the Warriors trucking.
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There’s a bright light though: Favoured New Zealand son James Fisher-Harris has returned south.
The Sporting Base simply isn’t convinced it will be enough though. As long as they persist with Roger Tuivasa-Sheck buried away in the backline and not in the number one jumper, they’re going to miss genuine strike power across the park, and Luke Metcalf has a lot to prove as he dons Johnson’s seven jersey in the early rounds.
There’s every chance the Warriors could click and make finals, but it’s looking like another year in the finals-less doldrums for the Kiwi club as it looks to replenish its ranks. Keep an eye on “Fish” teaching the developing pack – it may change everything.
Round 1 side: 1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Taine Tuaupiki 3. Ali Leiataua 4. Adam Pompey 5. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 6. Te Maire Martin 7. Luke Metcalf 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitchell Barnett 11. Marata Niukore 12. Kurt Capewell 13. Erin Clark Bench: 14. Dylan Walker 15. Jackson Ford 16. Jacob Laban 17. Bunty Afoa
Coach: Andrew Webster (third year)
Biggest loss: Shaun Johnson, Tohu Harris (both retired) Biggest gain: James Fisher-Harris
First five: Raiders (Las Vegas), Sea Eagles (H), Roosters (H), Tigers (A), BYE
Last year’s finish: 13th
Predicted 2025 finish: 16th
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TopSport odds: Premiers: $51, Top 4: $9.50, Final 8: $3.25, Most Losses: $9.50
