Canterbury Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo faces one of the most intriguing selection dilemmas of the upcoming NRL season, with the rapid rise of Lachlan Galvin threatening to reshape the club’s spine and potentially displace Matt Burton from his preferred role in the halves.
All eyes will be on Galvin when Ciraldo names his starting side ahead of the new campaign. The talented youngster looms as a genuine contender to begin the season wearing the No.7 jersey, partnering Burton in the halves. However, there is growing belief within league circles that Galvin’s natural game may be better suited to five-eighth, a scenario that could open the door for emerging halfback Mitch Woods to earn opportunities as the season unfolds.
That possibility leaves Burton at a crossroads. The Bulldogs star has the versatility to slot into the centres or even fullback, yet he has been clear about his desire to remain in the halves. Ciraldo has acknowledged it is a “good headache” to have, one likely to be resolved by form and combinations in the opening rounds.
Beyond the spine debate, Canterbury appear well placed to build on last year’s top-four finish. The club has retained its core squad, while the arrival of Knights forward Leo Thompson adds size and intimidation to the pack. With hooker Reed Mahoney departing for the Cowboys, Bailey Hayward is set to take over at dummy-half, benefiting from a full off-season to prepare for the role.
Depth remains a major strength, with players such as Lipoi Hopoi, Enari Tuala, Sam Hughes, Woods and Kade Dykes pushing hard for selection. As the Bulldogs aim to go one step further in 2026, Galvin’s development could prove the catalyst for both internal competition and a bold reshaping of the team’s attacking structure.
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