The NRL is taking a break this weekend, with men's and women's State of Origin and a trio of Test matches taking centre stage. Read Steve Turner's previews and view the tips of pan66.com experts.
NSW v Queensland: Women's State of Origin
The Blues will be looking to make it three wins in a row against Queensland when these two sides meet on Friday night at North Sydney Oval. The Blues will be led by the talented Maddie Studdon. NSW have clawed their way back after a 17-year Queensland dominance and currently hold the title after last season's 22-6 victory in Wollongong. Although the Blues have been hit with injury, they still have plenty of class and experience to make it three in a row against the Maroons.
Tip: NSW by 6
Papua New Guinea v Fiji
Both teams lit up the 2017 Rugby League World Cup through their passion and love from their fans. They both featured in the finals and will look to that experience once again for this weekend's fixture. Fiji's backline is impressive and this is where they'll look to outplay their opposition. PNG will play with plenty of passion and will give their all this weekend, but with little NRL experience in their side, they will find it hard to record a victory.
Tip: Fiji by 8
Samoa v Tonga
Tonga was the story of the World Cup, while Samoa were disappointing. Tonga will once again be led by Andrew Fifita and Jason Taumalolo, arguably two of the best forwards in the game at the moment. Anthony Milford is the star for Samoa and a lot of responsibility will fall on his shoulders, but their opponents have too much class and will be too strong on Saturday night.
Tip: Tonga by 10
New Zealand v England
It's a new look New Zealand side with a new coach and seven debutants named for the Denver Test against England. The Kiwis will be wanting to make a statement after a disappointing World Cup, while England will go into the game with plenty of confidence following last year's result at the World Cup. Wayne Bennett has selected plenty of experience and this will favour his side. There will be plenty of feeling between the two sides.
Tip: England by 6
NSW v Queensland: Men's State of Origin
The Blues will be full of confidence, following an impressive win in the opening game of the Origin series. James Tedesco and Damien Cook were outstanding. The key for the Blues in this one will be to not get complacent and instead go to another level. They were in the same position as last year and unfortunately couldn't get the job done. Queensland need to improve out of sight. They need more from their forward pack and they need more from their spine to take control of the game. Without Cameron Smith, Cooper Cronk and Johnathan Thurston, the Maroons need to find the next leaders and this responsibility falls on the shoulders of Ben Hunt and Cameron Munster. There is no greater opportunity for the Blues than to take the series on home soil this weekend.
Tip: Blues by 8
