The two most important positions on the field are widely considered to be the five-eighth and the halfback — every rugby league side's two floor generals.
Having an elite 6 and 7 duo can be the difference between a finals berth and a wooden spoon, and while some squads will be staring down the barrel of the latter, there are a few NRL teams who will benefit greatly from their own elite halves pairing.
These are the best of the best halves duos in the NRL heading into 2026, whether it be due to years of chemistry, championship pedigree, or simply just undeniable talent.
1. Jahrome Hughes and Cameron Munster (Melbourne Storm)
The best halves pairing in the NRL for the second consecutive season, Jahrome Hughes and Cameron Munster are the pinnacle of what an elite 6 and 7 can produce.
Munster is a firecracker in all the best ways, and while many halves would struggle to play alongside such a talented maniac, Hughes seems to complement his game perfectly with his own moments of poise and creativity.
Off the back of yet another Grand Final loss, Hughes and Munster will be eager to prove they can win a premiership without the likes of Cameron Smith.
The loss of Ryan Papenhuyzen, while disappointing, will also open the door for even more attacking brilliance from the pair, which could be the push both stars need to elevate their game's once more in 2026.
While they haven't been able to provide the city of Melbourne with a premiership in their last two Grand Final appearances, they are, without a doubt, the best halves pairing in the NRL.
