NRL Round 17 betting tips & match predictions

Round 17 of the 2025 NRL season kicks off with a heavyweight clash and finishes with a Queensland derby between two desperate sides. With State of Origin players back, form starting to settle, and top-eight pressure heating up, it’s time to pounce on some serious rugby league betting value across this weekend’s fixtures.

Penrith Panthers v Canterbury Bulldogs

Thursday, June 26 – 7:50pm AEST – CommBank Stadium, Sydney

The Panthers turned heads with a gritty win in New Zealand and now regain their Origin stars. But this is no easy kill — the Bulldogs sit top of the NRL ladder and boast the best defence in the league. With Matt Burton and Lachlan Galvin in sync, Canterbury can rattle a Penrith side still trying to find its groove.

Manly Sea Eagles v Wests Tigers

Friday, June 27 – 6pm AEST – 4 Pines Park, Sydney

Tom Trbojevic shifts to the centres, Daly Cherry-Evans is back leading the charge, and Manly are out to fix their NRL 2025 season fast. The Tigers showed spark against Canberra but still haven’t found that killer blow. With fresh legs and a must-win mentality, the Sea Eagles should pull clear — and Reuben Garrick is the finisher to back.

Newcastle Knights vs Canberra Raiders

Friday, June 27 – 8:00pm AEST – McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcaslte

Canberra are rolling, while Newcastle are scrambling. The Raiders have won four straight and are thriving behind Jamal Fogarty’s control and Joseph Tapine’s dominance through the middle. The Knights won’t have enough points in them if this gets physical — and it will.

Brisbane Broncos v New Zealand Warriors

Saturday, June 28 – 3pm AEST – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

Brisbane found magic in their comeback win over the Sharks — and with Reece Walsh warming up, the Broncos look dangerous again. But don’t sleep on the Warriors. They’ve beaten Brisbane at Suncorp before, and their edge combos are lethal when they click. This smells like an ambush, with the Warriors winning as underdogs with the top online sportsbooks.

St George Illawarra Dragons v Parramatta Eels

Saturday, June 28 – 5:30pm AEST – WIN Stadium, Sydney

The Parramatta Eels keep defying their injury list, and with Dylan Brown back this week, they’re in even better shape. The Dragons have leaked points and lack control through the middle. If Junior Paulo and J’maine Hopgood get on top early, this could get away from the home side fast.

Dolphins v South Sydney Rabbitohs

Saturday, June 28 – 7:50pm AEST – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

The Dolphins were flat in Perth and can’t afford another slow start. South Sydney have been valiant despite their injuries, and Alex Johnston’s red-hot form is pushing them forward. Still, Herbie Farnworth has been the best centre in the NRL over the last month — and if Isaiya Katoa gets time, the Dolphins will find points.

Melbourne Storm v Cronulla Sharks

Sunday, June 29 – 2pm AEST – AAMI Park, Melbourne

The Sharks fell apart in the second half last week, while Melbourne survived Souths in a golden-point thriller. This is Craig Bellamy territory — at home, under pressure, and hunting momentum. Cronulla’s mindset is fragile, so don’t be shocked if they collapse again under the pressure of the Storm.

Gold Coast Titans v North Queensland Cowboys

Sunday, June 29 – 4:05pm AEST – Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

The Cowboys are spiraling and have leaked 138 points in their last three games. Meanwhile, the Titans are playing with more belief, and Des Hasler has them bending the line more often than not. AJ Brimson and Kieran Foran will find enough polish at home to knock the Cowboys over.