Managing the salary cap is absolutely crucial when it comes to achieving success in rugby league.
Clubs can't just stack a team with 20 superstars on huge money and watch the wins pile up.
Coaches are paid big dollars to get the most out of players.
One of the most enjoyable aspects of each season is seeing which players develop into stars.
Today I am here to highlight ten such players who achieved that this year. Moreso those who improved in a big way.
Rookies won't be included for obvious reasons. Mark Nawaqanitawase was not considered for this reason.
These are ranked but honestly the difference between them is so small I'd be happy to swap any position, other than the undisputed number one.
Below are the 10 most improved players from the 2025 season:
Honourable Mentions: Jaxon Purdue, Jack Williams & Simi Sasagi.
1. Gehamat Shibasaki
I don't believe there has ever been a bigger improvement across the span of a season than we have seen from Gehamat Shibasaki.
The ultimate rags-to-riches story started with Shibasaki joining the Broncos this season on a train and trial contract.
It ended with him running out as a starter for the Kangaroos in an Ashes test. During the season, he also represented QLD and won an NRL Premiership. Not bad.
Shibasaki earned every accolade this season and should be the poster child for players to keep chasing if they believe they can. Legitimately inspirational stuff from the now world class centre.
