The first highlight on the NRL calendars the annual All Stars clash between the Indigenous and Maori teams in both men’s and women’s formats. Get set for this year’s edition on Saturday night.
To find out all the practical details (when, where, tickets, broadcasting options, etc) just click here.
Squads for the two matches have also been refined after a few late replacements. You’ll find all four teams here.
Just to recap, in the 2024 match-ups, the Indigenous teams came out on top in both games, winning the men’s clash by 22-14 and the women’s match by 26-4.
Melbourne Storm forward Christian Welch has announced his immediate retirement on medical grounds. Welch played 163 NRL games for the Storm and represented Queensland in 6 State of Origin matches. Read more about Welch’s career here.
Meanwhile, Round 2 of the Pre-season Challenge starts tonight with the Raiders taking on the Sharks at GIO Stadium in Canberra, with all other clubs except the Panthers involved at some stage over the weekend.
Then we’re only 16 days away from Round 1 of the 2025 NRL season which kicks off with a double-header in Las Vegas on Sunday 2 March (Australian time). You’ll need to check local guides for exact times where we get a bit closer. The remaining Round 1 matches will be played from Thursday 6th through to Sunday 9th March.
Don’t forget to sign up for the 2025 Almanac Footy Tipping competitions! If you haven’t yet received information about joining, please go to https://www.footyalmanac.com.au/almanac-footy-tipping-the-2025-comps-all-in-one-place/ or contact John Harms at [email protected] to get your entry in!
Elsewhere on the site today, check out invitation to attend the Footy Almanac Rugby League Lunch which is being held at Souths Juniors Kingsford on Saturday 29 March from 12.30pm. It’s a great opportunity to meet and join your fellow footy enthusiasts!
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To see the details for State of Origin in 2025 click HERE.
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About Ian Hauser
A relaxed, Noosa-based retiree with a (very) modest sporting CV. A loyal Queenslander, especially when it comes to cricket and rugby league. Enjoys travel, coffee and cake, reading, and has been known to appreciate a glass or three of wine. One of Footy Almanac's online editors who enjoys the occasional editing opportunity to assist aspiring writers.
thanks for the comprehensive summary, IJH
Christian Welch – a hard working, honest player – and a great contributor off field – will be interesting to see what his off field role/s are now in ‘retirement’
He is a good human – Villanova College lad – very near the Langlands Park heartland …
happy rugba league
RITV