Jinx’s XIII: NRL Fantasy's best team for Round 26

Article by the Fantasy Jinx

Welcome to the first edition of Jinx's XIII, where we break down the top 13 NRL Fantasy players expected to shine this week, at a reasonable budget. This segment will be your go-to guide for picking the players who are set to deliver big scores, helping you gain the edge in your fantasy league. We'll be bringing this to you weekly, so make sure to tune in every round!

Winger/Fullbacks (WFBs)

Scott Drinkwater ($645,000)
Opponent: Storm (Home)

Scott Drinkwater, fresh off a bye, is gearing up for a big week against a rejuvenated Storm side, readying themselves for the finals after securing the premiership. With a last 3-round average of 56.1 at a reasonable price, and with a point to prove leading into the finals, Drinky is expected to be heavily involved in the action, making him a strong pick for this round.

Brian To’o ($642,000)
Opponent: Souths (Home)

Penrith is coming off two unprecedented losses compared to their dominance over the last half-decade, and Brian To’o was one of the most impacted, with scores of 26 and 31. However, facing a Souths team that has allowed 25 points per game over the last 4 rounds sets Bizza up for a surplus of ball heading down his side, likely leading to a significant fantasy score.

Greg Marzhew ($514,000)
Opponent: Titans (Home)

Greg Marzhew is poised to explode this week, particularly due to his counterpart on the Gold Coast side, Alofiana Khan-Pereira. With Newcastle coming in hot off a big win against Souths and needing to win out to have a chance at the top 8, Marzhew will be a key target to challenge the shaky Gold Coast defense.

Centres (CTRs)

Dane Gagai ($700,000)
Opponent: Titans (Home)

Dane Gagai is a safer pick than Marzhew, currently playing at near career-best levels in terms of fantasy output. Interestingly, his recent tries have been an anomaly, as he typically scores through tackle breaks. Like Marzhew, Gagai will benefit from the weak Gold Coast defense, and a high-scoring game is expected between these sides.

Herbie Farnworth ($741,000)
Opponent: Broncos (Home)

In a rivalry game against his old club, Herbie Farnworth is set to continue his excellent form. In a team fighting for a spot in the top 8, Herbie’s exceptional offloading game, which has recently been a boon for fantasy owners, is expected to be on full display.

Halves (HLFs)

Cameron Munster ($526,000)
Opponent: Cowboys (Away)

Without his usual partner Jahrome Hughes, who is being rested, Cameron Munster is expected to run the show against the Cowboys this week. With Grant Anderson alongside him in the halves, Munster will likely take on most of the kicking and running responsibilities, making him the key playmaker for Melbourne’s attack.

Jarome Luai ($588,000)
Opponent: Souths (Home)

Jarome Luai, like Brian To’o, has been affected by Penrith’s recent poor form. However, against Souths, Luai is expected to carve up the opposition's backline, particularly down the left side. Potential buyers shouldn’t worry about the presence of Brad Schneider, as this game is expected to be a one-way affair.

Hookers (HOKs)

Jacob Liddle ($738,000)
Opponent: Eels (Away)

Jacob Liddle has proven his keeper status over the last few months, showing that he’s not just another tackle bot among hookers. Against a struggling Parramatta side already looking towards next season, Liddle should dominate through the middle, contributing significantly on both ends of the field.

Edge Forwards (EDGs)

Dylan Lucas ($630,000)
Opponent: Titans (Home)

Dylan Lucas’s fantasy potential is fully realized in his return to the second row. Like Gagai and Marzhew, the Newcastle forward is expected to benefit from the high-scoring game that this matchup promises.

Briton Nikora ($709,000)
Opponent: Warriors (Home)

Briton Nikora is in outstanding form, scoring 3 tries in his last 3 games. Facing a weaker defensive edge counterpart in Kurt Capewell, Nikora has a strong chance to add to his try tally. With Cronulla needing to secure a top 4 spot, Nikora will be crucial in their push.

Middle Forwards (MIDs)

Max Plath ($749,000)
Opponent: Broncos (Home)

Max Plath has settled well into the hooking position, becoming more comfortable each week as he transitions into a more prominent role. The Dolphins’ bench suggests a potential shift to lock at some stage, offering Plath additional attacking opportunities.

Christian Welch ($416,000)
Opponent: Storm (Home)

Christian Welch has seen a reduced role this year, even missing games when fully fit. However, with mass resting and a less experienced bench, the former Melbourne captain should see increased minutes, allowing him to showcase his offloading and post-contact meter abilities.

Keaon Koloamatangi ($735,000)
Opponent: Panthers (Away)

Keaon Koloamatangi’s brief departure from the lock position, which significantly boosted his fantasy stock, is expected to end with Cameron Murray’s likely suspension. With an average of 69.6 points when playing big minutes at lock, Keaon is a high-scoring player and a potential POD captain option this week.

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That wraps up this week’s Jinx’s XIII. Keep an eye out for our picks each week as we aim to help you dominate your NRL Fantasy league. Until next time, may your captain choices be wise and your scores be high!