NRL Round 23 betting preview & predictions | August 7–10, 2025

The race to the 2025 NRL finals is heating up, with Round 23 delivering pivotal matchups that will shape the playoff picture.

Here’s our full game-by-game rugby league betting preview with value picks and best bets for every clash.

Melbourne Storm vs Brisbane Broncos

Thursday, August 7 – 7:50pm AEST – AAMI Park

Melbourne’s home fortress is still daunting, but their attack has lacked spark without Jahrome Hughes calling the shots. Cameron Munster’s return helps, yet Brisbane’s resurgence — led by Payne Haas’ work rate and Reece Walsh’s speed — makes this a live upset chance. The Broncos’ edge pace has been carving up elite defenses and have every chance of winning this one with the great value at the top online sportsbooks.

Newcastle Knights vs Penrith Panthers

Friday, August 8 – 6pm AEST – McDonald Jones Stadium

The Panthers are peaking at the right time, averaging 27 points over their last five outings. Nathan Cleary’s game management and Dylan Edwards’ consistency give Penrith a decisive edge against a Newcastle team that’s leaking points and unsettled in the halves. Even without Isaah Yeo, the defending champs look strong.

Canberra Raiders vs Manly Sea Eagles

Friday, August 8 – 8pm AEST – GIO Stadium

Canberra’s forward duo of Joseph Tapine and Josh Papalii should dominate the middle third. Tom Trbojevic’s return boosts Manly, but their inconsistent attack is tough to trust on the road. Expect a physical grind that tilts toward the Raiders.

St George Illawarra Dragons vs Cronulla Sharks

Saturday, August 9 – 3pm AEST – Jubilee Stadium

Cronulla’s forward pack, led by Addin Fonua-Blake and Cameron McInnes, controlled last week’s contest and should repeat the dose against a vulnerable Dragons middle. St George play tough at home but struggle to back up wins. Nicho Hynes’ kicking game should be the difference.

Dolphins vs Sydney Roosters

Saturday, August 9 – 5:30pm AEST – Suncorp Stadium

The Dolphins lose key strike power with Herbie Farnworth sidelined, while the Roosters ride momentum from two gritty victories. James Tedesco’s leadership and Sam Walker’s playmaking should guide the visitors home, with their defense tightening at the right time.

Canterbury Bulldogs vs New Zealand Warriors

Saturday, August 9 – 7:35pm AEST – Accor Stadium

The Bulldogs’ left-edge power, headlined by Viliame Kikau, is primed to trouble the Warriors. New Zealand are missing Leka Halasima and have been shaky away from home. Expect Canterbury to cash in and post a statement victory.

Gold Coast Titans vs South Sydney Rabbitohs

Sunday, August 10 – 2pm AEST – Cbus Super Stadium

Jayden Campbell’s breakout form has energized the Titans’ attack. South Sydney limp into this clash with injuries and a reshuffled spine, leaving their defense exposed on the edges. Gold Coast’s speed should deliver in front of their home fans.

Parramatta Eels vs North Queensland Cowboys

Sunday, August 10 – 4:05pm AEST – CommBank Stadium

Mitchell Moses’ return has boosted Parramatta’s offense, but their inability to close games continues to hurt. The Cowboys remain unpredictable away from Townsville yet boast the forward power to match the Eels. Expect a tight contest with North Queensland edging it late.

NRL Round 23 multi of the week

• Broncos H2H
• Panthers 13+
• Raiders 1-12
• Sharks 13+
• Roosters H2H
• Bulldogs 13+
• Titans 1-12
• Cowboys H2H