Sydney Roosters’ highly anticipated pre-season trial against the Parramatta Eels experienced a dramatic and unusual interruption on Saturday, February 21, 2026, as a lightning storm forced play to halt just minutes after kickoff. The match, featuring the debut of former Manly Sea Eagles captain Daly Cherry-Evans in Roosters colours, was suspended after only four minutes of play at Polytec Stadium.
The Roosters had begun brightly, with prop Lindsay Collins crossing for the opening try before the weather intervened. An NRL official, responding to repeated lightning strikes in the vicinity of the stadium, instructed players to leave the field, prioritizing safety. The delay lasted 45 minutes, causing significant disruption to the pre-season fixture.
The trial match offered fans a first look at Cherry-Evans in a Roosters jersey, following his move from the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles. The signing was confirmed after a period of speculation, with the Roosters eager to add the experienced halfback to their squad. The disruption to his debut adds an unexpected element to the start of his tenure with the club. Fans were eager to witness how Cherry-Evans would combine with the Roosters’ existing playmakers, but the lightning delay put those plans on hold.
Lightning Halts Play at Polytec Stadium
The decision to suspend play was made in accordance with NRL safety protocols regarding severe weather. Lightning strikes within a certain radius of the playing field necessitate immediate cessation of play to protect players and officials. The 45-minute delay allowed the storm to pass, and play eventually resumed, albeit under overcast skies. The incident highlights the challenges of staging outdoor sporting events, even during pre-season preparations.
How to Watch the NRL Pre-Season Series
For fans unable to attend the match in person, the 2026 NRL Pre-season series is being broadcast live and ad-break free during play on FOX LEAGUE, available through a Kayo Sports subscription. Kayo Sports offers a monthly subscription for $1, providing access to a wide range of sporting content.
Cherry-Evans’ Roosters Debut
Daly Cherry-Evans’ move to the Roosters was a significant off-season acquisition for the club. The Australian reported on the interrupted debut. While the initial minutes were limited, the match provides a crucial opportunity for Cherry-Evans to build combinations with his new teammates ahead of the regular season.
The Roosters will be looking to build on their performance from last season, and Cherry-Evans’ leadership and experience are expected to be key assets. The pre-season trials are vital for coach Trent Robinson to assess his squad and finalize his plans for the upcoming NRL season.
The incident serves as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of outdoor sports and the importance of prioritizing player safety. The resumption of play, following the all-clear from officials, allowed both teams to complete a valuable hit-out ahead of the season proper.
Looking ahead, both the Roosters and the Eels will analyze their performances in the trial match to identify areas for improvement. The focus will now shift to final preparations for the commencement of the 2026 NRL season. Fans can expect further updates on team lineups and strategies in the coming weeks.
What are your thoughts on Cherry-Evans’ move to the Roosters? Share your opinions in the comments below!
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