The One New Zealand Warriors will open their 2026 NRL campaign with a high-profile Friday night showdown against the Sydney Roosters at Go Media Stadium on March 6.
The 8pm clash will mark the Warriors’ 32nd season in the competition and their 49th meeting with the Roosters.
Both sides reached the playoffs this year, with the Warriors finishing sixth before falling to Penrith in the first week of the finals, while the Roosters were eliminated by Cronulla after finishing eighth. When the two teams last met, the Warriors broke an eight-game losing streak to claim a 14-6 victory, closing the all-time record to 23 wins each and one draw.
The match will also see NRL veteran Daly Cherry-Evans make his debut for the Roosters after a stellar 15-season career with Manly Warringah. Joining him will be State of Origin hooker Reece Robson, who has signed from North Queensland.
The Roosters’ 2026 lineup includes Kiwi forward Naufahu Whyte and three Australian Ashes stars — Mark Nawaqanitawase, Angus Crichton, and Lindsay Collins.
Round one of the new season will kick off in Las Vegas on February 28, featuring the Bulldogs vs Dragons and Knights vs Cowboys doubleheader.
2026 NRL Draw Round 1:
- Thursday, March 5 Storm v Eels, AAMI Park
- Friday, March 6 One New Zealand Warriors v Roosters, Go Media Stadium
- Friday, March 6 Broncos v Panthers, Suncorp Stadium
- Saturday, March 7 Sharks v Titans, Sharks Stadium
- Saturday, March 7 Sea Eagles v Raiders, 4Pines Stadium
- Sunday, March 8 Dolphins vs Rabbitohs, Suncorp Stadium
