The age-old adage of rugby league is that it is always the best team each season that wins the competition, but what if I told you, it wasn't as clear cut as it seems.

You see to win a premiership, a team needs to have these three main things.

  1. A good squad and depth in each position
  2. Good defence
  3. A bit of luck

We have seen over the past few seasons that the team that wins the minor premiership is not always the team that goes on to win it all on grand final day.

Here is what each team needs to have happen during 2026 to be a chance of lifting the Provan-Summons trophy.

New Zealand Warriors: Smarter fifth tackle plays

The Wahs as they are affectionately known as everyone's second favourite team.

Having the Warriors in this competition is the best thing for fans all around.

This season has been positive so far for the Warriors and they have really benefited from the defensive structure that coach Andrew Webster has come from at Penrith.

If the Warriors are to win the comp in 2026, they need to not have silly plays. It's really as simple as that.

They are a team that more often than not do not have a 5th tackle option and will opt to run the ball.

This can be a great tactic if done right, but detrimental if not. If the Warriors can get through their sets, get a good kick away and keep their rock-solid defence, they could genuinely win their first-ever premiership.

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