NRL Round 19 betting predictions & match previews

With State of Origin finally behind us, NRL clubs can now set their sights firmly on the run into September. Round 19 is loaded with pivotal clashes, pitting battling teams against premiership hopefuls, and there’s plenty of betting value to unearth across the slate.

Check out where the value lies this weekend, including the top rugby league betting picks, key form angles, and standout players.

Cronulla Sharks vs Dolphins

Friday, July 11 – 8pm AEST – Sharks Stadium, Sydney

The Sharks return from the bye under significant pressure, having dropped four of their past five games, with recurring second-half fades haunting their season. In contrast, the Dolphins are brimming with confidence after racking up 50 points against South Sydney in their last outing. Sean O’Sullivan replaces Kodi Nikorima at halfback, but Kristian Woolf’s men have beaten the Sharks in both prior contests and look dangerous again.

Newcastle Knights vs Melbourne Storm

Saturday, July 12 – 3pm AEST – McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

Melbourne are flying on a five-game winning streak and remain one of the NRL’s most reliable travelling teams. The return of Ryan Papenhuyzen adds even more spark to their attack. The Knights have been gritty but, without Kalyn Ponga, their makeshift spine will likely struggle to contain the Storm’s relentless middle-forward rotations. Expect Melbourne to break away late.

St George Illawarra Dragons vs Sydney Roosters

Saturday, July 12 – 5:30pm AEST – Jubilee Stadium, Sydney

The Roosters regain a stack of Origin stars, plus the creative Sam Walker at halfback. Valentine Holmes is backing up for the Dragons, but St George Illawarra remain vulnerable in defence and inconsistent across 80 minutes. The Roosters have scored 148 points in their last three clashes with the Dragons and look poised for another dominant performance.

North Queensland Cowboys vs Canterbury Bulldogs

Saturday, July 12 – 7:35pm AEST – Queensland Country Bank Stadium, Townsville

The Cowboys keep leaking points and have slumped to seven losses from their last nine games. The Bulldogs, despite a second-half collapse against the Broncos last week, have enough attacking punch to test North Queensland’s shaky defence. Jacob Preston has been superb for Canterbury all season and shapes as a significant threat on the edges.

New Zealand Warriors vs Wests Tigers

Sunday, July 13 – 2pm AEST – Go Media Stadium, Auckland

The Warriors are reeling from two tough weeks and must find a way to steady the ship without Luke Metcalf. The Tigers, meanwhile, are buzzing after upsetting the Roosters and now regain Jarome Luai at five-eighth. History leans heavily toward the Warriors, but the Tigers have the tools to spring an upset if Luai can ignite their attack.

Parramatta Eels vs Penrith Panthers

Sunday, July 13 – 4:05pm AEST – CommBank Stadium, Sydney

The Eels continue to scrap but lack their usual finesse without Mitch Moses steering the ship. The Panthers, despite juggling Origin fatigue, are gradually regaining momentum in their premiership defence. Penrith’s depth is impressive, but Parramatta could cause headaches if Zac Lomax and Josh Addo-Carr get quality ball out wide. There’s definite upset potential here at enticing odds with the top online betting sites.

Gold Coast Titans vs Brisbane Broncos

Sunday, July 13 – 6:15pm AEST – Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

The Broncos are chasing their fifth straight win and regain Ben Hunt at hooker, adding even more polish to their attack. The Titans welcome back David Fifita, but they remain the NRL’s leakiest defensive unit. Expect Brisbane’s speedsters, especially Josh Karapani, to cause havoc again on the edges.