The Raiders used five players in the centres in 2021 in a season where the club’s backline continuously shuffled due to injury.
Raiders Captain Jarrod Croker had an interrupted season due to injuries, playing 12 games at centre in 2021.
2021 Best Moments: Croker crosses in the corner
Despite the tough injury run he still managed to keep ticking off milestones however, becoming the third highest point scorer in NRL history, overtaking Johnathan Thurston in Round 20 against the Knights.
With Croker’s injury and Curtis Scott playing just 10 matches before he was stood down for an off-field incident, the door was opened for some younger players to get their opportunity.
After returning from a year away from the game, Sebastian Kris was a regular starter during the season, playing 20 games in 2021.
Kris played 18 games at centre but also showed his versatility during the season, including one game on the wing and one in the second row. Kris scored eight tries, the second highest try scorer for the Raiders behind Jordan Rapana.
Matt Timoko was another next generation Raider to step up this year and came into the side in Round 14 after being named as a reserve for four games prior. He played nine games in total for the season, including two games off the interchange bench.
Timoko was rewarded for his performances this season, sharing the Rookie of the Year honours with Harley Smith-Shields.
2021 Best Moments: Powerful run from Timoko for Williams try
Both Kris and Timoko were rewarded for their strong seasons, with both extending their contracts with the club.
Jordan Rapana also made one appearance in the centres in 2021, replacing Sebastian Kris in Round 25 against the Roosters when Kris was a late injury withdrawal.
