Overview

• Nathan Lawson, a former Australian Sevens star, will debut on the Dragons’ wing after Christian Tuipulotu’s hamstring setback delayed his return.
• Kalyn Ponga was ruled out of Newcastle’s side late on Friday following his midweek State of Origin outing, with Fletcher Sharpe shifting to fullback.
• Valentine Holmes is cleared to back up from Origin duties and anchor the Dragons’ backline at Jubilee Stadium.
• Nineteen-year-old Lachlan Galvin obtained an early release from his Wests Tigers contract and is poised to sign with Canterbury.
• Victory for either side would reinforce their top-eight push, as the Dragons seek to maintain momentum and the Knights aim for back-to-back wins.