The 2023 NRL men’s Grand Final is here. The Penrith Panthers will face the Brisbane Broncos at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, with kickoff at 7:30pm AEDT tonight (6:30pm for local viewers in Brisbane).
Here’s your guide to the game.
Penrith
If the Panthers win, they will become the first team in 40 years to win three premierships in a row.
They’re in excellent form — they have won their last eight finals matches, and five of their last six games against the Broncos.
The team is known for rock-solid defence, an enormous forward pack and lightning-fast backs. A win here will see them go down as one of the best teams ever.
Key players
Nathan Cleary
The halfback was an essential ingredient in Penrith’s recent premierships. He’ll be as important as ever in this game.
Isaah Yeo
As Penrith’s lock-forward, Yeo always puts in massive defensive efforts. The co-captain will be likely at the top of the tackle count.
Dylan Edwards
Penrith’s fullback was the man of the match in last year’s Grand Final, so he knows how to perform on the big stage.
Brisbane
The Broncos will be looking to stop the Penrith fairytale, and for the majority of the team, win their first premiership title.
They are one of the NRL‘s most-supported teams and are looking for their first trophy in 17 years. They have league legend Kevin Walters in the coaches’ box.
Only a few years ago, the Broncos ended the season at the bottom of the ladder. Now, they could be premiers.
Key players
Reece Walsh
At only 21, Walsh is one of the best fullbacks in the NRL and is particularly dangerous close to the try line.
Adam Reynolds
Brisbane’s captain and halfback is one of two players in his side to have played in a Grand Final before, and will be essential.
Patrick Carrigan
The lock has had a standout year at both club and representative level, and will need to produce a huge defensive effort.
How to watch
The game will be broadcast on Nine. It can also be streamed via 9Now.
The game begins at 7:30pm, but there will be a variety of entertainment before the game and during breaks, headlined by the cast of ‘Tina — The Tina Turner Musical’.
If you’re not in Australia, you can watch the game on ‘WatchNRL‘.
