The NRLW 2026 season opens Friday with the Sharks taking on the Knights in a round one matchup. Canberra Raiders standout Simaima Taufa hits her 50-game milestone amid rising recognition for young players across the competition.
Coaches and experts have highlighted the growing talent pool, with multiple young stars poised to take on bigger roles this season. Analysts have named premiership favorites and flagged dark horse contenders before the opening round. The NRLW has experienced higher interest from top-level converts looking to join the league.