2026 NRL Grand Final First Tryscorer Verdict
The past five NRL Grand Finals have seen a winger, two centres and two hookers score the opening try, showing there is no single position that dominates this market. So where does the value lie?
The Roosters do bring a strong trend into Sunday's decider, having scored first in their last 11 matches when starting as favourites.
Mark Nawaqanitawase and Fletcher Sharpe are our leading first try scorer selections for the 2026 NRL Grand Final, with Lindsay Collins our roughie for the Roosters.
You can also read our NRL Grand Final tips and verdict and our Clive Churchill Medal selections.
Mark Nawaqanitawase
Nawaqanitawase has scored 20 tries in 22 games, including five across his past three matches, and opened the scoring against the Dolphins in last week's preliminary final.
The matchup with Greg Marzhew is another reason to like him. With Sam Walker and Daly Cherry-Evans controlling the kicking game, expect the Roosters to test Marzhew under the high ball and give Nawaqanitawase opportunities in the air.
Fletcher Sharpe
Sharpe has scored 13 tries this season and shapes as Newcastle's most interesting option through his support play.
If Kalyn Ponga or Bradman Best breaks the Roosters defensive line, Sharpe has the speed and instinct to appear on their shoulder and finish the move.
He also scored Newcastle's first try of the 2026 season, collecting a Ponga kick against North Queensland in Round 1.
Lindsay Collins
Collins has scored only three NRL tries this season, but he has developed a habit of finding the line in big moments.
The Roosters prop scored first against Cronulla, crossed for Queensland during the Origin series and scored again in last week's preliminary final against the Dolphins.
If the Roosters get an early attacking set close to Newcastle's line, Collins is our roughie to crash over.