2025 ROSTER: Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Prepare for NRL Season with Formidable Lineup Assembled by Coach Cameron Ciraldo
As the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs gear up for the highly anticipated 2025 NRL season, head coach Cameron Ciraldo has been meticulously assembling a formidable roster aimed at returning the club to its championship-contending status. Following a period of rebuilding, the Bulldogs have made significant strides, and with Ciraldo’s strategic approach, fans are eagerly anticipating a new era of success.
Ciraldo, who took the reins in 2023, has injected new life into the Bulldogs with a focus on youth development, team cohesion, and a more dynamic style of play. His vision has been clear from the beginning: build a squad that can compete with the best and establish the Bulldogs as a dominant force in the NRL. The 2025 roster reflects this commitment, with a balanced mix of experienced leaders, emerging talent, and new recruits.
Key players from the Bulldogs’ strong 2024 campaign will remain central to the team’s plans, including explosive winger Jacob Kiraz, powerful forward Viliame Kikau, and dynamic halfback Jake Averillo. These players, who have been integral in the club’s resurgence, will be expected to play pivotal roles in 2025, providing both stability and flair.
Adding to the excitement are a number of exciting new signings, headlined by the highly anticipated arrival of star centre Bronson Xerri, who extended his contract earlier this year until 2027. Xerri’s blistering speed and attacking abilities will give the Bulldogs a dangerous edge in the backline. Additionally, the club has secured the services of veteran prop James Tedesco, whose leadership and experience will be invaluable in mentoring the younger players and bolstering the forward pack.
The Bulldogs have also strengthened their spine with the recruitment of promising hooker Apisai Koroisau, a seasoned performer who brings creativity and tough defence to the club. Koroisau’s addition will complement the Bulldogs’ spine, allowing players like Averillo and fullback Jake Doueihi to flourish in their playmaking roles.
Ciraldo has also focused on adding depth to the forward pack, with new signings such as powerhouse forward Addin Fonua-Blake, who will provide size and strength, and former Melbourne Storm forward Josh Hodgson, whose high work rate and defensive resilience are expected to shore up the Bulldogs’ middle third. Together, these additions will strengthen the Bulldogs’ overall balance, making them a more formidable force in both attack and defence.
With a blend of youth and experience, Ciraldo’s 2025 roster is designed to compete with the NRL’s best, and the team’s aggressive, high-paced style of play promises to excite fans. The Bulldogs are primed to challenge for a top-eight finish in the upcoming season, with their sights set on achieving greater success in the years ahead.
As the 2025 NRL season approaches, the Bulldogs’ new-look squad is filled with promise and potential. Head coach Cameron Ciraldo’s careful planning and strategic recruitment have set the stage for a thrilling year ahead, and Canterbury-Bankstown fans can expect their team to be one of the most exciting to watch in the competition. The future is looking bright for the Bulldogs, and the 2025 season could very well be the year they take the next step towards NRL glory.
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