The Dragons’ growing injury list has created an unexpected opening for one of their most experienced forwards, with Ben Murdoch-Masila set for his first NRL appearance of 2025.
Head coach Shane Flanagan confirmed the 33-year-old will slot into lock against South Sydney at Accor Stadium on Thursday, filling the void left by Jack de Belin, Hamish Stewart and Hame Sele, all ruled out after suffering head knocks in Auckland last weekend.
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Halangahu handed first start as Sloan returns
It’s not just Murdoch-Masila’s return that will grab attention. Rising talent Jacob Halangahu has earned a maiden career start in the second row, while Blake Lawrie comes back onto the interchange.
Tyrell Sloan, who featured as the side’s replacement player a week ago, has again been listed in the No.17 jersey.
The reshuffle is a significant response to a brutal casualty ward that already includes Jaydn Su’A, Moses Suli and a string of season-ending injuries across the squad. Flanagan has leaned on a blend of youth and experience to keep the Dragons competitive as the campaign enters its final stretch.
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With South Sydney languishing near the bottom of the ladder, the clash offers an opportunity for St George Illawarra to steady themselves in the mid-table battle.
Murdoch-Masila’s recall, coupled with Halangahu’s first start, highlights the contrasting stories of resilience and fresh opportunity driving the Dragons into Round 25.