The Canterbury Bulldogs have decided who will play alongside Matt Burton in the halves during their pre-season match this weekend.
According to News Corp, Drew Hutchison is expected to start at halfback against the Cronulla Sharks on Friday night, replacing Toby Sexton.
This could provide insight into Cameron Ciraldo’s strategy for the upcoming NRL season, as Hutchison will start ahead of Sexton for the second week running.
Sexton recently spoke with Zero Tackle about competing against Drew Hutchison and others for the vacant halfback position. Although he did not start last week, he played extensively and performed well in his position.
“Yeah, it is,” Sexton said when asked if the goal was to secure a spot in the halves.
“The most important thing is to have a really good preseason where I can get good reps in.
“I’m developing both physically and mentally, and I’m putting myself in the best possible stage to be able to have a good 2024, and hopefully that’s in the 17 as well.”
Viliame Kikau, a second-rower who missed the previous week, is expected to play in the game. Stephen Crichton, a prized recruit, may also make his Bulldogs debut, but his participation is uncertain.
The club wants Crichton to be fully fit for their opening match against the Parramatta Eels, so they are not willing to risk him.
Bronson Xerri is set to return to the NRL in Round 1 after a four-year absence due to a drug ban.
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