NRL expert tips semi finals 2026 news, Andrew Johns and Brad Fittler back Knights to beat Warriors, Roosters v Sharks
NRL experts Andrew Johns and Brad Fittler analyze the upcoming semi-final match between the Warriors and the Knights. They suggest the Warriors face a difficult path unless key injured players return to the lineup.
Why it matters
This provides sports analysis for fans following the 2026 NRL finals series, highlighting the impact of player injuries on team performance.
Exclusive Sport NRL NRL Tips: Knights stunner looms unless two stars can make miracle recovery Simon Brunsdon Updated September 17, 2026 - 10.49pm . First published at 10.26pm
shares Share article Brought to you by The Warriors will exit the NRL finals in straight sets unless both Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Leka Halasima return from injury against Newcastle on Sunday.
That is the opinion of both Brad Fittler and Andrew Johns, with the two league legends outlining serious concerns about the Auckland-based outfit following a shock loss to the Dolphins last week.
Leka Halasima in action against the Broncos. Getty Images
The Warriors, who finished second only to Penrith on the ladder this season, have named both Watene-Zelezniak and Halasima on an extended bench for Sunday’s must-win clash at Eden Park.
“They are two players they need,” Fittler said on Wide World of Sports’ NRL Tips .
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