NRL 2025: Canterbury Bulldogs predicted team list, latest squad news for Round 1

As the 2025 NRL season approaches, the Canterbury Bulldogs are gearing up for what promises to be an exciting year. With a blend of experienced players and fresh new talent, the Bulldogs are looking to build on their previous performances and make a significant impact in the NRL competition. Below is a look at the predicted team list for Round 1 of 2025, along with the latest squad news surrounding the club.

Key Signings and Squad Changes

The Bulldogs have been active in the off-season, making strategic signings to bolster their squad for 2025. A key acquisition is Viliame Kikau, the powerful back-rower from Penrith, who has been brought in to add experience and physicality to the forward pack. Kikau’s presence is expected to make an immediate impact, both in attack and defense, and his combination with other key forwards will be critical for the Bulldogs.

Additionally, the club has secured Jacob Kiraz, a young and promising talent, who is expected to make a significant contribution in the outside backs. His speed and agility make him a dangerous weapon on the wing, and many fans are excited to see him take his game to the next level in 2025.

The Bulldogs have also focused on their depth, bringing in a few new faces in the backline and forward pack to ensure they are well-equipped for the long season ahead. Notably, Matt Burton, who has shown flashes of brilliance in the halves, will be crucial in guiding the team’s attack in 2025. Burton’s kicking game and leadership will be pivotal in directing the Bulldogs’ attack and ensuring they are competitive against top-tier sides.

Predicted Team List for Round 1

The Bulldogs are likely to field a competitive side in Round 1 of 2025, with a mixture of seasoned stars and new signings. Here is a predicted lineup based on the available squad:

Fullback:
Jake Averillo
Averillo has shown great promise in the fullback role and is expected to retain his position for the opening round. His attacking flair and solid defense will be crucial for the Bulldogs’ structure in 2025.

Wingers:
Jacob Kiraz (Right Wing)
Blake Wilson (Left Wing)
Kiraz and Wilson are expected to be the starting wingers for the Bulldogs in 2025. Kiraz, a dynamic talent, will add speed and agility to the right edge, while Wilson’s strong finishing ability will be key on the left.

Centres:
Jaden Okunbor (Left Centre)
Jayden Campbell (Right Centre)
Okunbor and Campbell will provide solid defensive combinations while offering attacking opportunities on the edges. Okunbor’s powerful running and Campbell’s footwork make them a dangerous pairing in the centres.

Halves:
Matt Burton (Five-Eighth)
Jake Averillo (Halfback)
Burton will be the key playmaker for the Bulldogs in 2025, offering both a kicking game and a creative spark. Averillo, who has experience in both the halves and fullback, will support Burton in organizing the attack and taking the pressure off his partner in the number six jersey.

Props:
Max King (Right Prop)
Paul Vaughan (Left Prop)
Max King’s work ethic and defensive presence make him a reliable forward option, while Paul Vaughan brings a wealth of experience and a physical presence in the middle. Both players will need to provide solid platform-building early in games for the Bulldogs.

Hooker:
Reed Mahoney
Mahoney’s leadership and defensive intensity will be crucial in 2025. As the starting hooker, he will need to steer the team from dummy half, making quick decisions and ensuring the forwards maintain momentum.

Second Row:
Viliame Kikau (Left Edge)
Tevita Pangai Jr. (Right Edge)
Kikau’s power and explosive running will give the Bulldogs an edge on the left side, while Pangai Jr.’s aggression and tackling ability will strengthen the right side. Both are expected to be key players in the Bulldogs’ forward pack.

Lock:
Jack Hetherington
Hetherington’s work rate and toughness will provide much-needed stability in the middle of the field. His defensive consistency and aggressive nature will be important assets for the Bulldogs.

Bench:
Harrison Edwards
Tui Katoa
Aaron Schoupp
Chris Patolo
The bench provides the Bulldogs with a mix of fresh legs and impact players who can change the momentum of the game. Edwards and Katoa offer mobility in the forward pack, while Schoupp and Patolo provide depth in the backs.

Squad News and Expectations for 2025

The Bulldogs have set high expectations for the 2025 season, with the aim of pushing for a playoff spot and being competitive against the NRL’s top teams. Under the leadership of coach Trent Barrett, the Bulldogs have been working on improving their attacking options and defensive structures. With an influx of strong signings and an improved squad, they are hoping to break into the NRL’s top eight.

The competition for spots is intense, with multiple players vying for starting roles. Key areas of focus for the Bulldogs will be their ability to score points, maintain strong defensive systems, and manage player fitness throughout the year. If the Bulldogs can build consistency early in the season, they could prove to be a formidable force.

With plenty of talent in the squad and a renewed focus on developing youth, 2025 could be a year of progress for the Bulldogs, with a playoff berth firmly in their sights. The team’s depth and new additions are expected to play a vital role in their quest for success, and the fans will be eagerly watching to see how they perform in Round 1 and beyond.