The Big League Podcast: Former Kiwis player Richie Barnett on concern over Warriors’ right-edge defence

Rocco Berry’s latest injury is creating fresh concerns for the Warriors’ right edge in the NRL.

The centre went off with a dislocated shoulder in the 34-14 win over the Wests Tigers at Mt Smart, having earlier scored the Warriors’ opening try.

The 24-year-old is waiting to hear whether the dislocation is a season-ending injury. In three of the six NRL games Berry has played this season, he has gone off injured.

Former Kiwis fullback Richie Barnett told The Big League Podcast there needs to be certainty around the centre position.

“It’s forever changing,” Barnett said. “It’s never been settled.

“It’s an area of concern. They leak 60% of their points through the right edge.

“I’m hoping he gets back on the paddock sooner than later.”

Kurt Capewell has been named to replace Berry in the side for Sunday’s clash with the Newcastle Knights.

This will be Capewell’s fifth game at centre this season, and the Warriors have won all four matches he’s played there in 2025.

Ali Leiataua has also been named on the extended bench, having had his own injury concerns this season. He returned to the field last week for the Warriors’ New South Wales Cup side.

Meanwhile, Tanah Boyd debuted for the Warriors at halfback in the absence of Luke Metcalf, producing one try assist and kicking five of six conversions.

Barnett said Boyd isn’t shy of making his thoughts known in-game.

“He directs hard. He really does voice his opinion on the field and he pushes the team around,” Barnett said.

“His cover defence was supreme. We know his kicking game is first class.”

Nathan Limm has been a Multimedia Journalist with Newstalk ZB and the New Zealand Herald since 2020.