Rugby League’s Familiar Faces Shining in the NSW Cup
It’s fascinating to see how many recognizable names are currently plying their trade in the second-grade competition Down Under, the NSW Cup. Established back in 1908, the league features 13 teams – 11 from New South Wales, plus one each from Auckland (New Zealand Warriors) and the Australian Capital Territory (Canberra Raiders).
These teams are either official reserve sides of NRL clubs or ‘affiliated’ feeder clubs, providing a pathway to the top level. Among the familiar faces in the league this season are several British and international stars, each hoping to catch the eye and earn an NRL opportunity.
Standout Performers in the NSW Cup
Geronimo Doyle of the New Zealand Warriors has made 16 appearances in the NSW Cup since arriving from the UK, where he featured for Swinton Lions and Whitehaven. Fellow fullback Bailey Hodgson, on the Manly Sea Eagles’ supplementary list, is another Englishman aiming to break through, having previously played for Castleford Tigers and Newcastle Knights.
Sydney-born utility Billy Magoulias, a five-time Greece international, has returned to his roots with Newtown Jets after a brief stint with Warrington Wolves. Young winger Lewis Murphy has linked up with the Sydney Roosters’ reserves after impressing for Wakefield Trinity, while prop Dylan Napa, a NRL champion with the Roosters, is now back with the club’s second-grade side.
Other Noteworthy Talents
Other noteworthy names include Welsh half-back Josh Ralph, who starred for Toulouse Olympique last year, and Greek international Billy Tsikrikas, who had a brief spell in Super League with Castleford. Alex Young, the younger brother of England star Dom, is also making his mark with the Roosters’ NSW Cup outfit after representing Jamaica at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.
With so much talent on display in the NSW Cup, it’s clear that the competition continues to serve as a valuable stepping stone for players looking to make their mark in the NRL.
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