NRL Round 20 betting preview, free picks & predictions

The NRL season is charging into its final third, and every clash in Round 20 could have major implications for the run to September. Some teams are jostling for precious finals spots, while others are simply fighting to restore pride and momentum after a tough year.

Punters are spoiled for choice this week with the top sports betting sites, with several underdogs poised for an upset and key players returning to boost their sides.

Here’s where the smart money is landing in Round 20, with free rugby league betting picks, form trends, and players to keep an eye on across the weekend.

Dolphins vs North Queensland Cowboys

Thursday, July 17 – 7:50pm AEST – Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane

The Dolphins welcome back the electric Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, who’s been a game-breaker all season. Even missing a few forwards, Kristian Woolf’s team should carry too much strike power for a Cowboys side still reeling from a 58-4 drubbing in Round 15. A reshuffled North Queensland backline is unlikely to flip the script.

Cronulla Sharks vs Sydney Roosters

Friday, July 18 – 6pm AEST – Sharks Stadium, Sydney

Roosters coach Trent Robinson has rolled the dice, bringing in Chad Townsend for the injured Hugo Savala in a shock halfback move. The Tricolours boast an imposing record against the Sharks, winning eight of the past nine meetings in Sydney. While Cronulla are steady, they can stumble against stronger sides, and this looks the perfect ambush opportunity for the Tricolours.

Penrith Panthers vs South Sydney Rabbitohs

Friday, July 18 – 8pm AEST – CommBank Stadium, Sydney

Penrith will be without Nathan Cleary and Isaah Yeo, yet Ivan Cleary’s squad remains loaded with depth and defensive grit. The Rabbitohs have been fragile, losing 11 straight games against teams on winning streaks. Even with Latrell Mitchell back in the mix, Penrith should edge this one in a close contest.

Canberra Raiders vs Parramatta Eels

Saturday, July 19 – 3pm AEST – GIO Stadium, Canberra

The Raiders welcome back State of Origin heavyweights Josh Papalii and Hudson Young and are cruising near the top of the ladder. The Eels, experimenting with new halves combinations, look vulnerable through the middle. Kaeo Weekes is thriving at fullback and could wreak havoc on Parramatta’s edges.

Canterbury Bulldogs vs St George Illawarra Dragons

Saturday, July 19 – 5:30pm AEST – Accor Stadium, Sydney

Lachlan Galvin returns at halfback in a big selection call from Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo. The Dragons are brave but continue to fall short in tight finishes. With Stephen Crichton’s Origin pedigree back in the centres, expect the Bulldogs to scrape home in a close one.

Melbourne Storm vs Manly Sea Eagles

Saturday, July 19 – 7:35pm AEST – AAMI Park, Melbourne

The Storm regain key names Cameron Munster and Xavier Coates, but Manly arrive confident after a solid pre-bye victory. Tom Trbojevic is shining in the centres, and the Sea Eagles’ spine looks capable of unsettling a Storm outfit still patching up defensive lapses. This is prime upset territory at attractive odds.

Wests Tigers vs Gold Coast Titans

Sunday, July 20 – 2pm AEST – Leichhardt Oval, Sydney

Taylan May’s debut injects fresh fire into the Tigers’ backline. However, the Titans welcome Tino Fa’asuamaleaui back into the starting pack and retain David Fifita on the bench for impact. Gold Coast have won seven of their last eight first halves against the Tigers in Sydney, and at this price, they’re the value pick.

Newcastle Knights vs New Zealand Warriors

Sunday, July 20 – 4:05pm AEST – McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle

The Knights continue to battle bravely despite injuries but face a Warriors side with serious Origin muscle up front. Kurt Capewell’s return strengthens New Zealand’s edge defence and attack, and the Warriors look poised to run away with it late in the Hunter.

NRL Round 20 multi picks

Looking to chase a big payout? Here’s a juicy multi for Round 20:

• Dolphins -4.5
• Roosters H2H
• Panthers 1-12
• Raiders 13+ / Weekes try
• Bulldogs 1-12
• Manly H2H
• Titans H2H
• Warriors 13+