Australia v New Zealand - Friday 8AM
The fixture of the weekend bar none, this game pitches NRL teammates against each other and has all the ingredients for another classic game.
Looking at both squads, it's difficult to pick apart. The Aussies boast seasoned pros in Cam Smith and Cooper Cronk - as well as one of, if not, the best player in the world in Jonathon Thurston who looks nailed on to start.
New Zealand's attack, however, cannot be questioned. Shaun Johnston will certainly be one of the biggest players in this game, with the exciting talent of Roger Tuivasa-Sheck on show for the world to see. My only worry is the Kiwi defence, but if they can step up to the occasion there's no reason they couldn't go on to win this one. Back New Zealand +8 at 11/10.
England v Samoa - Saturday 10:40AM
A game that no doubt has some of the Super League coaches foaming at the mouth, as this weekend's round of fixtures goes ahead despite teams losing out on their best players.
Samoa name a talented NRL-based side for this and the most noticeable inclusion is the Brisbane Broncos' Anthony Milford. However, England have their fair-share of NRL players (the Burgess brothers, Josh Hodgson and James Graham) and I'm going to stay patriotic on this one.
The English now have one of the best coaches in the world with Wayne Bennett, whose CV speaks for itself, and I think it's a matter of time before he works his magic with this squad. Whilst that is purely theoretical, the strength of the squad itself should be enough - with players like Luke Gale, Alex Walmsley and Zak Hardaker all in great form for their club sides.
I fancy England to send a message out to the rest of the Rugby League world here. Back England -6 at 10/11.
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Selections By: @1RLBETS
- We advise on 1 point per bet, and a ½ point on the double that is 3/1 with bet365.