📰 NRL Match Preview: Rabbitohs vs Warriors RD25, 2026
The South Sydney Rabbitohs return to Accor Stadium this Saturday evening for a crucial round 25 clash against the New Zealand Warriors, with kick-off scheduled for 5:30pm (AEST) as the Club celebrates Member Appreciation Round.
With three matches remaining in the regular season, the Rabbitohs enter the weekend sitting seventh on the ladder and building momentum at an important stage of the year. Wayne Bennett's side comes into the contest on the back of consecutive victories, including an impressive 22-6 win over the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs last Friday night.
South Sydney remains undefeated at Accor Stadium this season and has won its past eight matches at the venue. The Warriors will provide another strong challenge, arriving in Sydney sitting third on the ladder and pushing for a top-two finish. With both sides firmly in the finals race, Saturday shapes as an important contest as the regular season enters its closing stages.
Team Changes
Rabbitohs Head Coach Wayne Bennett has named Euan Aitken to return to the starting side in the second row, replacing Adam Elliott, who has been ruled out with a groin injury. Liam Le Blanc comes onto the interchange bench in jersey 17.
Latrell Mitchell has been named among the extended reserves in jersey 22 as he continues to progress towards a return following 11 matches on the sidelines.
Matthew Dufty retains the fullback role, with Alex Johnston and Campbell Graham on the wings and Tallis Duncan and Jack Wighton in the centres. Cody Walker and Jayden Sullivan continue their combination in the halves.
Captain Cameron Murray leads the side from lock, with Tevita Tatola, Brandon Smith and Keaon Koloamatangi through the middle, while David Fifita and Aitken make up the second row.
For the Warriors, Taine Tuaupiki has been named at fullback in place of the suspended Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad. Chanel Harris-Tavita shifts to halfback following an injury to Luke Metcalf, with Luke Hanson named at five-eighth.
Gameday Information
Saturday's clash forms part of the Rabbitohs' Member Appreciation Round, with the Club celebrating the Members who continue to stand proudly behind the Red and Green.
Gates at Accor Stadium open at 4pm, with an exhibition touch football match between the UNSW Rabbitohs and Easts Roosters getting the action underway at 4:10pm.
Rabbitohs legend Roy Asotasi will have the honour of ringing the Legacy Bell as the team takes the field, while the Wahu Mini League will feature at half-time alongside AirTouch's 'Kick to Win' activation.
Members and supporters can also enjoy a range of activities around the stadium, including Budget Direct's Spin to Win, the MG Motor vehicle display, AirTouch's Smart Home 'Coach's Box' Passing Challenge and USANA Try Cards.
Following full-time, Members are invited to the Northwest Terrace Bar for the Members Function, with a signed match ball and other prizes up for grabs.
Rabbitohs merchandise outlets will be located inside Bays 104 and 127, with 2026 Rabbitohs Members receiving 15% off upon presentation of their Membership card.
All Memberships and match tickets include integrated public transport, with fares included as part of entry to the match.
Match Details
Fixture: South Sydney Rabbitohs vs New Zealand Warriors
Round: 25
Date: Saturday 22 August 2026
Kick-off: 5:30pm (AEST)
Gates Open: 4:00pm
Venue: Accor Stadium, Sydney
Broadcast: Live on Foxtel and Kayo
