NRL Round 20 & NRLW Round 3 Previews (2025)

·43 min·4 clips

Lewis Shepperd previews the first NRL round unaffected by Origin while fighting a lost voice and coughs.

The episode begins with host Lewis Shepperd apologizing for his compromised voice due to illness but proceeding with previews for NRL Round 20 and NRLW Round 3. He starts by discussing the first NRL round unaffected by State of Origin, highlighting key games like Cowboys vs. Dolphins, where he analyzes team changes, injuries, and betting odds. Shepperd moves through each NRL matchup, offering insights on team strategies, player performances, and predictions, such as the Sharks vs. Roosters and Panthers vs. Rabbitohs. He criticizes South Sydney's handling of halfback Lewis Dodd, questioning their decision-making. The host then delves into the Bulldogs' controversial move to start Lachlan Galvin over Toby Sexton, weighing the risks and rewards. He previews other games, including Storm vs. Sea Eagles and Tigers vs. Titans, noting contract rumors and team dynamics. The episode shifts to NRLW previews, covering matchups like Raiders vs. Eels and Broncos vs. Roosters, with analysis of player suspensions and team changes. Shepperd provides betting tips throughout, referencing sponsor Better.com.au and a charity account. He concludes with news on coaching cycles, such as speculation about Newcastle Knights coach Adam O'Brien, and teases future discussions on player contracts and team performances. The format is a solo monologue with detailed, opinion-driven analysis, supported by betting insights and promotional content.

As heard by us

A live halves debate turns numbers, structure and defensive strength into a proper run-home selection puzzle.

The episode uses the first NRL round of the run home, finally clear of Origin disruption, to sharpen one live selection question: whether Galvin can settle as Burton's halves partner, or whether Sexton's quieter organizing remains the cleaner fit.

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Why you'd press play

You want the Galvin-versus-Sexton halfback call unpacked with the run home starting to sharpen.

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