Scott Bailey (AAP)   

Kalyn Ponga says he is no longer having to put up a facade as Newcastle's leader, with the Knights star feeling he is finally confident to be himself as an NRL captain.

For the first time in almost six years, Brian To'o is a hunter. No longer an incumbent NSW State of Origin winger, and not a current premiership holder at Penrith.

Naufahu Whyte has lit the fuse for a fiery grudge match with the Dolphins, warning he and the Sydney Roosters pack won't be afraid to get into another physical altercation.

If not for Justin Holbrook's need to find a replacement hooker at Gold Coast four years ago, he may not be coaching Greg Marzhew at Newcastle today.

Tyson Frizell insists he still has enough in the tank for a 17th season in the NRL, with the Newcastle veteran hopeful the door remains open to stay at the Knights.

Ronaldo Mulitalo knows the finals are no time to let his ego take over and get drawn into another fiery battle with Mark Nawaqanitawase. But the good news for NRL fans is this: Cronulla's winger is al...

Braydon Trindall has revealed how playing through a similar shoulder injury in the finals two years ago has given him the confidence to help lead Cronulla's title tilt.

Dane Gagai has declared he will not let anyone retire him, with the Newcastle veteran hell-bent on winning a maiden premiership in his 16th NRL season.