Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks Preview & Prediction | 2025 NRL | Regular Season
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The NRL season kicks off in spectacular fashion as the defending champions Penrith Panthers face off against the Cronulla Sharks in a highly anticipated clash at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas on Saturday night
Start date/time: Sunday 2nd March, 2025, UK – 4:30am / Saturday 1st March, Local – 8:30pm / US ET – 11:30pm / US PT – 8:30pm
How to watch on TV: UK – Sky Sports / Australia – Matches are shared between Channel Nine & Fox League / USA – Some matches are televised live on Fox Sports
How to watch online: UK – Sky Go & Watch NRL / Australia – Kayo Sports / USA – Watch NRL, and if the match is televised in the USA it can also be streamed live on Fox Sports platforms
Penrith Panthers Team News
The Panthers, aiming for an unprecedented fifth consecutive title, enter the match with some uncertainty. They've had a relatively quiet pre-season, losing their only warm-up match against the Raiders. Key players Nathan Cleary, Liam Martin, and Dylan Edwards have been cleared to play after off-season surgeries, but their match fitness remains a question mark. The loss of Brian To'o to a hamstring injury is significant, with young Casey McLean stepping in on the wing.
Cronulla Sharks Team News
Cronulla, on the other hand, comes into the match with momentum after a strong pre-season, including a dominant 40-10 victory over the Raiders12. The Sharks have named a settled side, with the addition of star prop Addin Fonua-Blake being their marquee signing1. Sam Stonestreet, a promising 22-year-old local junior, will replace the injured Sione Katoa on the wing.
Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks Prediction
The unique conditions at Allegiant Stadium add an extra layer of intrigue to this matchup. The field dimensions are slightly different from standard NRL fields, which could impact scoring opportunities and tactical approaches.
Recent history favours the Panthers, who have won 8 of their last 10 matches against the Sharks35. However, Penrith has lost their last two season openers, while Cronulla has shown prowess on the road, winning 8 out of 12 away fixtures last season.
While the Panthers remain favourites, the Sharks have the firepower and form to potentially upset the defending champions. Expect a tense, defensive battle that could come down to the wire in this historic Las Vegas clash. Our play is the unders in total match points here.
Penrith Panthers vs Cronulla Sharks Tip: Under 39.5 total points
