Justin Holbrook has candidly discussed the Newcastle Knights’ ongoing halves dilemma while expressing admiration for star recruit Dylan Brown and his contributions to the team ahead of the 2026 season. Brown, alongside Sandon Smith, is expected to significantly impact the Knights’ lineup. However, Holbrook revealed on SEN radio that an injury to captain Kalyn Ponga has delayed finalizing the team’s spine.
“I’ll probably use the next three weeks on it,” Holbrook stated during the SEN 1170 Breakfast show. The challenge stems from the versatility of players like Sandon Smith, who can play both half and hooker, and Phoenix Crossland, who prefers the hooker position but can also play as a loose forward. With Ponga not expected to train until February, Holbrook emphasized the difficulty of making decisions with a key player absent.
“I will use the next few weeks shuffling guys around, figuring out the side of the field they’re gonna play on, and it’ll work itself out over the next few weeks,” Holbrook added. He acknowledged the importance of resolving the lineup to ensure team cohesion, noting that while players are flexible about their positions, they all aim to secure a spot in the side.
Dylan Brown: The Key Recruit
Among the Knights’ new recruits, Dylan Brown stands out as a pivotal addition, joining the club on a record $13 million, 10-year deal. Brown’s impressive track record includes 37 tries in 142 games for the Parramatta Eels and five tries in 11 Tests for the New Zealand Kiwis. Holbrook has been particularly impressed with Brown’s calm demeanor and the confidence he brings to the team.
“I love his demeanour, to be honest,” Holbrook remarked. “Before I met him, everyone said, ‘he’s a pretty relaxed guy, pretty cool sort of person’, and I think that’s what this group needs.”
Brown’s relaxed yet confident style has been a breath of fresh air for the Knights, complementing the hard-working mentality prevalent in the team. Holbrook praised Brown’s influence, stating, “He’s come up here again full of confidence… he’s been playing long enough, but I just think for the players around him, what he brings is that confidence.”
Leadership in Focus: Isaiya Katoa’s Impact
Meanwhile, veteran player Daniel Saifiti has been astounded by the leadership qualities of Dolphins’ young skipper, Isaiya Katoa. At just 21, Katoa has already captained the team for nearly a year, a remarkable feat given his relatively short NRL career since debuting in 2023.
Saifiti, who has played 191 games since his debut in 2016, expressed his admiration for Katoa’s maturity. “I don’t think I’ve ever been more impressed by a player or a person,” Saifiti shared. “He’s only 21, and his maturity on and off the field is remarkable.”
“He doesn’t drink, doesn’t have any vices. He’s such a good kid who was raised by a good family,” Saifiti said.
Despite his youth, Katoa commands respect and leads by example, which Saifiti believes is crucial for the team’s dynamics. “He’s a great leader, a great talker, and he’s captaining players over 30… It doesn’t feel awkward one bit,” Saifiti added.
Perth Bears Unveil New Logo
In other NRL news, the Perth Bears have unveiled their logo for the 2027 season, marking their entry as the NRL’s 18th team. Coach Mal Meninga praised the logo for its connection between the Bears’ storied past and their future in Western Australia.
“This Bear honours the proud history of the Bears while embracing the energy of Western Australia,” Meninga said, highlighting the club’s vision of unity across two coasts.
North Sydney Bears legends Greg Florimo and Billy Moore expressed excitement over the new design, which pays homage to the Bears’ legacy while embracing a new chapter in Perth. The logo, created by North Sydney Bears supporter Dave Carnovale, aims to bridge heritage with future-readiness.
PNG Chiefs Appoint New CEO
In a significant development for NRL expansion, the PNG Chiefs have appointed Lorna McPherson as their CEO. The Chiefs, set to join the league in 2028, are building a strong administrative foundation with McPherson at the helm. Her extensive experience in promoting rugby league in Papua New Guinea positions her as a pivotal figure in the Chiefs’ future endeavors.
“Lorna has an outstanding track record of success in business and importantly has been entrenched in PNG and directly involved with Rugby League for over 16 years,” Australian Rugby League Commission Chairman Peter V’landys AM stated.
As the NRL continues to expand, these developments underscore the league’s commitment to growth and innovation, both in Australia and internationally.