Overview

• Sunday at Accor Stadium features the NRLW final at 4:00pm AEDT and the NRL decider at 7:30pm AEDT, both live on Nine.
• Analysts say how tightly the ruck and 10 metres are policed could shape the men’s result, with calls to keep flow without allowing Melbourne to control tempo.
• Melbourne are widely viewed as slight favourites due to their defensive consistency and settled spine, while Brisbane bring late-season momentum and the pressure of a 19-year title drought noted by Darren Lockyer.
• Reece Walsh is framed as Brisbane’s biggest threat, veterans Adam Reynolds and Ben Hunt are tipped to steer the attack, and Jahrome Hughes’ recent return from a broken arm remains a focal point for Melbourne.
• The middle-forward duel is seen as pivotal with Payne Haas leading Brisbane against the Storm’s pack, and in the NRLW Tamika Upton’s record season meets the Roosters’ unbeaten run as Sydney chase a third title to match Brisbane’s tally.