The first week of this season's NRL finals series promises to be hugely entertaining, with Goliath vs. Goliath clashes in almost every match.

While fans will be eager to watch the league's best sides go head-to-head this weekend, there are a few individual match-ups that demand extra attention.

These are the key match-ups in the finals, Week 1.

2Cronulla Sharks v Sydney Roosters: Sam Walker vs Nicho Hynes

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TOWNSVILLE, AUSTRALIA - SEPTEMBER 11: Sam Walker of the Roosters looks on during the NRL Elimination Final match between Sydney Roosters and Gold Coast Titans at QCB Stadium, on September 11, 2021, in Townsville, Australia. (Photo by Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images)

This is a match-up many thought wouldn't see the light of day after Nicho Hynes was suspended for a match last weekend.

He's since gotten off the charge, however, and will now be gearing up for a do-or-die finals clash this weekend.

While Hynes was once considered the next great halfback in the NRL, his star has somewhat waned, and this clash will be his biggest chance yet to get it shining again.

His opposing halfback, Sam Walker, is on an opposite trajectory. Proving to be one of the most clutch players in the competition, Walker will be hoping to add to his impressive resume even further with a finals win this weekend.

Both men have a lot riding on this match, and their performances will be deciding factors on whether their respective sides win or lose.