Tolu Koula   

NSW captain Isaah Yeo has lauded Latrell Mitchell's selflessness in ruling himself out of the State of Origin series opener after aggravating his back injury.

Kieran Foran has backed Siua Taukeiaho to fight back and resume his NRL career after the veteran prop broke his leg in two places in Manly's 32-4 win over Brisbane.

Manly have pulled off a significant retention coup, convincing strike centre Tolu Koula to ignore interest from elsewhere and sign a new five-year deal at the NRL club.

Perth will have a smorgasbord of close to 170 NRL players to build their inaugural roster off, as they prepare to officially hit the open market for the first time.

Teenager Lehi Hopoate credits one piece of advice for putting him on the path to achieving something no one else in his record-breaking family has managed."Just don't be scared.

Sydney Roosters enforcer Jared Waerea-Hargreaves makes his return this weekend to boost his side's tilt for a top-two finish in his final season at the club.

Sea Eagles coach Anthony Seibold has confirmed speedster Tolu Koula will make his return from injury on Friday night, although it's unclear whether he'll start in the centres or ease his way back off...

Kalyn Ponga is poised to make an early return from a foot injury after being named to face Canberra as Newcastle fight to keep pace with their top-eight rivals.

Cronulla will rest Nicho Hynes' problematic calf after the State of Origin series opener, omitting the NSW halfback from their team to face Brisbane in round 14.