The Mole: Key Query Surrounding Warriors Following Major Off-Season Roster Changes

The exit of veteran players Addin Fonua-Blake, Jazz Tevaga, Shaun Johnson, and Tohu Harris will usher in a transformed Warriors squad for the 2025 season – a change that many observers might welcome.

Despite boasting an impressive array of talent and a strong junior pipeline, the Warriors have reached the finals only once in the past six years, and the team appeared to be in desperate need of a shake-up during a lacklustre 2024 season.

Following a promising start under coach Andrew Webster’s inaugural year, the Kiwis fell back into familiar struggles, seldom looking like genuine playoff contenders.

While the departure of Fonua-Blake is significant, the player stepping into his shoes has the potential to revitalise the franchise.

James Fisher-Harris, a multi-premiership winner with the Panthers, is arguably the world’s premier front-rower. Beyond his skill, his presence and leadership qualities are set to elevate the young talent at the Warriors.

Shaun Johnson may have overstayed his welcome in the halfback position, as the Warriors performed best last year with Te Maire Martin taking the number seven jersey.

However, guiding the side through the rigours of the season will provide a test for Martin, who is vital in realising the Warriors’ full potential.

The club is also keen to extract more from experienced campaigner Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who underperformed during his return season from rugby union, scoring just five tries in 18 games.

Although the Warriors possess considerable size and talent in the forward pack, there appears to be some depth issues in the backline. They may look to bolster that area ahead of the season’s kickoff after Zyon Maiu’u’s recent exit.

2025 gains

James Fisher-Harris (Panthers), Jett Cleary (Panthers), Motu Pasikala (upgraded), Erin Clark (Titans), Sam Healey (Sharks), Tanah Boyd (Titans)

2025 departures

Addin Fonua-Blake (Sharks), Jazz Tevaga (Sea Eagles), Marcelo Montoya (Bulldogs), Shaun Johnson (retired), Tohu Harris (retired), Zyon Maiu’u (Bulldogs)

Best acquisition: If there’s one name capable of revitalising the inconsistent Warriors, it’s the inspirational James Fisher-Harris. He understands what it takes to succeed at a high level and will lead by example.

This season is crucial for: Te Maire Martin, who steps up as the Warriors’ playmaker following Shaun Johnson’s retirement. He possesses the skills to succeed in this role, but the pressure will be significant.

Key question: Australian clubs maintain that if they can match the Warriors physically for the first 60 minutes, the Kiwi side tends to tire in the last 20 – it’s time for the Warriors to dispel this notion.

Projected finish: 12th

Predicted Round 1 lineup:

1. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad 2. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak 3. Roger Tuivasa-Sheck 4. Ali Leiataua 5. Edward Kosi 6. Luke Metcalf 7. Te Maire Martin 8. James Fisher-Harris 9. Wayde Egan 10. Mitch Barnett 11. Kurt Capewell 12. Marata Niukore 13. Erin Clark 14. Chanel Harris-Tavita 15. Jackson Ford 16. Tanah Boyd 17. Tom Ale

Sportsbet odds to win the competition: $51