Wests Tigers have been given an unexpected lift ahead of their clash with North Queensland, with centre Starford To’a cleared to play despite hobbling off against Manly last week.
The 24-year-old has been named to line up in the backline as the Tigers seek to extend their home run at Leichhardt Oval.
The match also carries extra weight for co-captain Jarome Luai, who is set to notch his 150th NRL appearance on Sunday. Luai, who will again partner Adam Doueihi in the halves, has been pivotal to the side’s recent resurgence under Benji Marshall.
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Three on the trot at Leichhardt?
The Tigers have already turned their traditional home ground into something of a fortress in 2025, defeating the Sharks and Titans there earlier this year. A victory over the Cowboys would mark a third straight triumph at the iconic suburban venue, a streak that has eluded the club in recent seasons.
Marshall has opted for stability, retaining the same 22-man squad that got the job done against Manly at Allianz Stadium. Skipper Api Koroisau leads a settled forward pack, with Terrell May and Fonua Pole anchoring the front row, while brothers Samuela and Sione Fainu patrol the edges.
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On the bench, Royce Hunt and Latu Fainu provide impact, while young reserves Heath Mason and Brent Naden are among those waiting in the wings.
Kick-off at Leichhardt Oval is set for 11:35 am on Sunday, 24 August, with the match to be broadcast live on WatchNRL.