NRL Preseason: Warriors and Sharks Battle to a 12-12 Draw

NZ Warriors began their 2025 NRL season with a sloppy 12-12 tie against the Cronulla Sharks in Sydney.

The visitors conceded the first try in the first few minutes when front-rower Tom Hazelton rumbled over from close range, forcing them to catch up.

After an offload from forward, Demetric Vaimaunga and replacement winger Taine Tuaupiki gave the Warriors the lead, fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad tied the score with a try after halftime.

As both coaches emptied their expanding interchange benches in the final stages, the Sharks levelled with a converted touchdown from Hohepa Puru.

The Warriors had an early injury setback as veteran winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak departed the game, gripping his wrist. He received treatment on the sidelines but did not return.

They have another pre-season trial against the Melbourne Storm in Hamilton next Saturday before their first-round match against the Canberra Raiders in Las Vegas on March 9.