The biggest talking points from Round 16, Could halves change turn around Bulldogs attack, players push case for Origin selection, Latrell Mitchell’s cryptic response on NSW Blues

The Bulldogs rolled the dice with a surprise halves reshuffle in Round 16, but could coach Cameron Ciraldo’s bold move be the key to unlocking their attack as their hopes of playing in the finals remain alive?

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Meanwhile, several contenders put their names forward to represent the NSW Blues in Game III of the 2026 State of Origin series as Laurie Daley prepares to make mass changes to his squad.

COULD HALVES CHANGE TURN AROUND DOGS SEASON?

Canterbury Bulldogs fans witnessed a new halves pairing in Round 16 with skipper Stephen Crichton slotting into the halves alongside Lachlan Galvin while Matt Burton reverted back into the centres.

Having struggled to find attacking fluency in recent weeks, the bold mid-season shake-up delivered an immediate result as the Bulldogs clinched their third win in four weeks and showed far more creativity with the ball in hand.

Although Crichton finished with just two carries for 15 metres, the captain’s move into the halves allowed him to take on a great organisational role, becoming more involved and helping steer the side around the park.

It also allowed fellow halves partner Lachlan Galvin greater freedom to play his natural game and challenge the defensive line.

Meanwhile, Burton was outstanding in his return to the outside backs and was able to focus on his biggest strength – running the football.

Consistently threatening the Sea Eagles’ defensive line on the edge, he finished with 144 metres from 19 carries.

“I didn’t mind it. I thought Crichton had some good touches and it brings Matt Burton into the game. He had 19 carries for 144 metres,” Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters said on Fox League’s Super Saturday.

“We’ve said on this panel so many times over the last couple of years, the importance of Matt Burton getting the ball and running the ball.

“He did it tonight, albeit at a different position, but it still creates good momentum for his side and he’s played centre for NSW, so it’s not like it’s a completely new arena for him.

“He’s a very talented player and can play both positions. He doesn’t mind shifting and adjusting as long as the Bulldogs are winning and they march into the finals.”

While Walters backed Ciraldo’s bold decision to change up the halves, fellow Fox League analyst Cooper Cronk had a different take.

The former NRL halfback acknowledged the benefits of having Crichton more involved in attack but questioned whether it was the right long-term solution if the Bulldogs are serious about making an impact during the business end of the season.

“There are pros and cons when you make these moves. I think they made the move because Stephen Crichton’s their best player, best leader, talker,” Cronk said.

“Communication in attack has lacked at different stages, but Matt Burton has a better passing game.

“Matt Burton has a better running game, particularly with six on his back, so it’s going to be interesting to see.

“Stephen Crichton, yes, he has struggled to find his best form, but he’s the best centre in the game and best defensive player as well.

“If they’re going to win a finals match, I don’t know if Stephen Crichton should be No.6. I think he’s the best centre and I think the halves just need to stand up.”

Cronk’s comments reflect the major question facing the Bulldogs moving forward.

Is the switch a long-term solution capable of transforming the club’s attack?

Or is it simply a short-term fix designed to spark the side back into form after a disappointing season to date?

“I don’t think many people saw it coming. Ciraldo said it was a few weeks in the making, so they’ve obviously been thinking about it and talking about it,” Luke Keary said on Fox League’s Sunday Ticket.

“I’m guessing this is for the rest of the season. I don’t know if you swap him back.

“I think Matty Burton’s probably a better five-eighth. I don’t think Stephen is a genuine five-eighth, but they needed to win to keep their season alive.

“It’s the second time he has kicked a game-winning field goal, so I think they leave him there.”

Greg Alexander added, “I don’t think Stephen played much five-eighth as a junior so he hasn’t been in that position.

“He’s pretty talented, though, so I think he’ll pick it up quickly, but even at times last night he looked like it was the first time.

“You thought if they are going to put him, how does he get the best out of Burton, who is now outside him?”

‘INCREDIBLE’ SHARPE PUSHES CASE FOR BLUES DEBUT

It is a known fact that NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley is set to make several changes for the series-decider after they were humiliated by Queensland in Game II.

Among the biggest selection headaches facing Daley is how to inject more spark and X-factor into their attack.

While the likes of Bradman Best, Latrell Mitchell, Stephen Crichton and Tom Trbojevic have emerged as leading candidates to strengthen their outside backs, another name is beginning to gain momentum.

That name is Fletcher Sharpe who put his hand up for selection after a starring performance for the Newcastle Knights in their close win over the Dragons.

“His double early got the Knights off to a flyer and he was everywhere,” Braith Anasta said on the post-match panel.

Former Blues dummy-half Michael Ennis added, “They pushed Fletcher Sharpe from five-eighth to fullback and he was heavily involved in the opening ten minutes, where the win was set up.”

“It was Fletcher Sharpe’s performance in that period that got them that lead.”

Able to play every position in the backline, Sharpe’s versatility adds to his appeal to be selected in Game III for the Blues as Daley weighs up his options for the do-or-die clash.

It is understood that he was previously considered for being named on the extended six-man interchange bench for the opening match of this year’s series.

“The thing I like about Fletcher Sharpe is that it doesn’t matter if he plays on the wing, fullback or in the halves. He just competes,” ex-Maroons halfback Cooper Cronk said.

“He will just turn up and have a go. If he played on the wing, he wouldn’t sit out on the right wing and just wait for the ball to come for him.

“Kick goes up, he chases through. If there’s an offload, he’s there to support and if he needs to be on the pass, two passes wide, he’ll be there.

“He’s just a guy who wants to be involved and no matter who comes back into the side, he’s one of the first people picked for Newcastle.”

Beginning his NRL career with the Knights on the wing, he quickly established himself as one of the club’s most dangerous and valuable attacking weapons.

This saw him transition between the halves and fullback as the club searched for ways to maximise his influence on matches.

“He started on the wing. He scored 11 tries in ten games. He was incredible. He can play anywhere,” Greg Alexander said.

Meanwhile, Ennis believed that his greatest asset is the energy, enthusiasm and communication skills he brings to those around him.

“I remember being at ground level at Vegas to a similar start ot what he dished up tonight and the energy that he brings to the footy side and the communication,” Ennis continued.

“He was left, he was right, he was everywhere over the park and his instincts (are amazing).

“He reads the games, understands where to be and (he) has got a good feel for the game and what is needed. He is a class act.”

LATRELL’S CRYPTIC REPLY TO BIG ORIGIN QUESTION

In a week’s time, the Blues will name their squad for the Suncorp decider, with Laurie Daley expected to make a few changes to the side that was thrashed by the Maroons in Game II.

One player the Blues have desperately missed this series is Latrell Mitchell.

Thankfully for NSW and the Rabbitohs, Mitchell is set to return this weekend when Souths take on Parramatta.

Mitchell appeared on the Sunday Night with Matty Johns show in a rare media appearance and says he’s likely to return from a back injury against the Eels this weekend.

That will give him one audition before Daley picks his side.

“Yeah it’s been good. Been doing a bit of swimming, pilates,” Mitchell said.

“I’ll be pushing to play this week. See if Wayne has a position for me.”

Mitchell was then pressed by Johns if he’ll be fit for Game III, with the superstar centre giving a cryptic reply.

“Oh, look. Doesn’t matter really,” he said.

“I’ve been running and training well and looking forward to returning against Parra.”

It’s safe to say that if Mitchell gets through this Thursday’s clash, he’ll be a certainty to be selected.

Johns believes Mitchell is just what the Blues need, urging Daley to pick big-game players with presence.

“Don’t pick on form,” Johns said.

“There’ll be changes and without going too far into it now, don’t pick on form. What they should do is pick big game players who have presence. Like Latrell, Liam Martin, Api Koroisau.

“Those are the blokes who don’t fear the big occasion and have presence.

“The other thing is we have to simplify our football.

“At the moment, Teddy and Nathan Cleary have never really worked. It’s like oil and water so they have to make a decision there.

“Is there a possibility of putting Ethan Strange alongside Nathan because Ethan can run the football.

“I’d start with Addin Fonua-Blake, Payne Haas and Cam Murray at lock. You want to start on the front foot and get the other guys like Nathan into a rhythm.”

Mitchell also called for Koroisau to be given an opportunity in the decider.

The Tigers hooker was picked in Game II but didn’t see the field, with Reece Robson playing all 80 minutes at nine.

“I felt like Api could’ve done a bit with his creativity,” Mitchell said.

“I know Robson gets through a lot of work and defends well but when is it time to make that call, you know?”

THE ‘SHINING LIGHT’ IN DRAGONS LOSSES

The St George Illawarra Dragons may have lost their 13th match of the season on Thursday night against the Knights, but a “shining light” emerged in the defeat.

Despite the results, there were encouraging signs for the Red V with several of the young forwards standing up and delivering against a more experienced opposition forward pack.

“Their forward pack is getting better with every game,” Braith Anasta said on Fox League’s post-match panel after their match.

While they have unfortunately only racked up a single victory – which was against the reigning premiers in the Brisbane Broncos – the effort areas from the Dragons’ forwards

have continued to draw praise.

“They haven’t played 50 games. Individually, they haven’t got near that mark yet where players start to feel comfortable as first graders,” Michael Ennis said.

Ennis pointed to the inexperience within the squad, but also stressed the likes of Dylan Egan and Toby Couchman have the raw potential to have long careers in the NRL.

“They’re still so young and raw in their careers at this top level, but excelling,” Ennis added.

“Toby Couchman was outstanding. His late footwork and late offloads really started to trouble (the Knights).

“There was a lot to like and Dean Young will be really proud of what his team dished up tonight. There were just a couple of moments they didn’t win, but they could’ve won.”

While their forward pack has earned praise, the same can’t be said for their back-line and halves, who have struggled to consistently create opportunities and deliver that X-factor in attacking situations.

However, Anasta stated that the incoming reinforcement of several star players next season is a reason for optimism and they will only keep getting better.

“They’ve got Drinkwater coming. They’ve got Luke Metcalf coming. They’ve got Connor Watson,” he said.

“Guys who can light it up and create opportunities so there is a shining light there for the Dragons if they can finish this season strong and play with the heart, ticker and desire.

“With those players coming, you can see an improvement next year.”

As the Dragons’ forward pack continues to fire and the incoming arrivals in 2027 will add further creativity in attack, the club’s long-term rebuild is starting to take shape.

This saw former NRL playmaker Greg Alexander back the club’s direction and reveal that interim coach Dean Young should be handed the full-time gig, despite the team’s ongoing struggles.

“They’re still not getting wins, but I don’t think it hurts Dean Young’s chance of keeping the job that much,” Alexander said.

“As long as they’re performing and their efforts are there and look like they’re improvising as a side. I think Dean Young keeps the gig.”

JWH: THE TWO PLAYERS LOZ MUST PICK

NRL legend and 33-time New Zealand international Jared Waerea-Hargreaves has urged NSW Blues coach Laurie Daley to select two hard-running edge forwards for the Origin series-decider after they were overlooked for Game II.

Known as one of the most feared yet respected forwards in the history of rugby league, Waerea-Hargreaves believes that Haumole Olakau’atu (Manly Sea Eagles) and Liam Martin (Penrith Panthers) must be selected by Daley.

‘I think he’s shown all year why he should be on the big stage for New South Wales and tonight he was just a menace out on the edge,” Waerea-Hargreaves said on Fox League’s Super Saturday about Olakau’atu.

“He ran with such conviction and was physical in defence. Every time he touched the ball, everyone felt his presence so I think he should be playing on Wednesday night.

“I think he’s a hell of a player to look at and know that he’s going to some damage on that right edge.”

Sensationally axed for Game II, the Sea Eagles’ back-rower delivered an emphatic response over the weekend, putting together 161 running metres, 12 tackle busts and 23 tackles against the Bulldogs.

In this powerful all-round display, he reminded Blues selectors of his impact and why he needs to play in the series-decider.

“I think he’s on the bench for me. Whatever happens, I think Haumole could do something off the bench for New South Wales,” Cooper Cronk added.

The former Sea Eagles and Sydney Rooster front-rower also believes that Liam Martin should be recalled into the Blues squad for Game III.

A four-time premiership winner, Martin was unavailable to be selected for the opening match of the series due to injury but was then overlooked for Game II in favour of Dylan Lucas.

“I believe he should be (selected). He plays with such intensity that makes everyone around him better, and he goes after every single moment,” Waerea-Hargreaves added.

“We saw that from the carry where he scored the try. He absolutely wanted that.

“He’s been back for a couple of weeks now and he’s got to be in that Origin (side). He brings so much fear factor.

“He’s also done it for many years. He’s played 14 Origin games. He’s won four comps. He’s just a winner and can get the job done.”

Cronk backed the views of his former club teammate, agreeing that the Blues needed to select Martin.

However, while he stated that Olakau’atu would be best utilised off the six-man interchange bench, he could see the Panthers star starting in the back-row.

“He would be in my side if you’re going to pick someone who can walk into Suncorp and believe they can dominate,” Cronk said.

“The intensity that Liam Martin plays with, he’s in the side. There’s a lot to get through the next week or so, but he’s definitely in there.”

CHRISTCHURCH PUSHES CASE FOR EXPANSION CLUB

Christchurch hosted its first-ever NRL match on Sunday and, in doing so, may have strengthened its case to become the new home of the competition’s 20th team.

A sold-out crowd packed the new One NZ Stadium as the Warriors defeated the Cowboys on Sunday afternoon and if Sunday’s turnout is any guide, Christchurch showed that they deserve a place in the NRL.

From start to finish, the atmosphere was electric and the attendance highlighted the region’s growing case for permanent inclusion into the NRL.

“If the spirit in this venue was big at the start of the game, it’s gone up several levels,” Fox League’s Niko Pajarillo said.

This comes following reports from The Courier-Mail that New Zealand is the frontrunner to win the NRL’s 20th licence, with a second Kiwi team edging ahead of another club from Queensland.

“It truly is a wall of sound. Add the acoustics of an indoor ground with a sold out crowd and the rowdiness of one of the most loyal fan bases in the NRL, it’s the perfect cocktail for an incredible atmosphere here in Christchurch,” Fox League commentator Matty Russell added.

“Warriors fans waving, smiling. It’s been quite the atmosphere from before kick off as footy fans flock from the city centre of Christchurch into this sparkling, One New Zealand stadium.

“What an addition to the city it is.”

It is understood that the ARL Commission has a strong appetite for another NRL team in New Zealand and it is part of an international expansion strategic plan to expand the competition to a 20-team league.

Fox League commentator Dan Ginnane added, “That scene in Christchurch was astonishing.”

“At a time when the game is looking at expansion, gee didn’t Christchurch look good today?” former NRL hooker Michael Ennis continued.

While Perth and Papua New Guinea have already been confirmed as the next two entrants to the competition in 2027 and 2028, the race for the final expansion spot continues to take shape.

However, if the performance from the Christchurch crowd on Sunday is anything to go by, it will keep New Zealand firmly in the conversation and at the front of the race.

“The star of the show was the new ground at Christchurch. Unbelievable, insane,” Matthew Johns said on Sunday Night Football with Matty Johns.