Cayless set for 250th NRL game

Parramatta Eels captain Nathan Cayless will play his 250th NRL game against the Warriors in New Zealand this Sunday.

The Parramatta stalwart made his debut back in 1997 and has since captained New Zealand to a World Cup win and the Eels to two grand finals.

Three players will be given the chance to start their NRL careers on Sunday after Daniel Anderson named three debutantes on an extended bench, including new signing Manase Manuokafoa.

Back-rower Pat O’Hanlon, and props Pele Peletelese and Mitchell Allgood make up the six-man bench, with Anderson to make a decision on the final make-up of the side closer to the game.

Matthew Keating has been recalled to first grade at hooker while Jeff Robson moves back the halves. The Eels are missing Jarryd Hayne and Tim Mannah through Origin, Timana Tahu through suspension and Eric Grothe, Ben Smith and Justin Poore through injury.

Coach Anderson is excited about the influx of enthusiasm the rookies will bring to the side.

“Most of our injuries are only short term but it gives the opportunity for some of these players to make their debut and experience the NRL,” he explained.

“As these players start their career we have our captain reaching a prestigious milestone in his career and the fact Nathan has played all 250 games for the Eels shows his dedication to this club.”