Round 15 Team News: Ciraldo Updates His Side for the i4Give Cup Clash

Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs Head Coach Cameron Ciraldo has finalised his squad to face the Eels this afternoon.

The two sides will line up to battle for the i4Give Cup - an annual King's Birthday clash that promises to be a crowd thriller.

With a rivalry that stems back well into the 80's, both teams will be equally passionate to earn the honours and retain the Cup in their trophy cabinet for the next 12 months.

Initially thought to be ruled out due to a head knock, skipper Reed Mahoney has met the criteria for a possible 7-day turnaround and is a chance to take on his former club for a second time in 2023.

Mahoney will link up with fellow Captain Matt Burton, who played a key role in the 2022 local derby upset which saw the Bulldogs topple the Eels, 34-4.

A lethal left-side edge will be complemented by a right-side just as threatening, as Jacob Kiraz returns to the field from a hyper-extended elbow.

Chris Patolo, who signed a one-year extension with the Bulldogs on Friday, also returns to the NRL for the Round 15 match. The talented back-row edge and prop had been sidelined for the first ten Rounds due to a knee injury, before returning to test his fitness in NSW Cup. His return is timely while Raymond Faitala-Mariner remains unavailable (illness).

Khaled Rajab, who became Bulldogs #849 when he debuted in Sunday's match against the Roosters, will back up to play in the King's Birthday Clash.

With i4Give Trophy on the line and a young, hungry Bulldogs side ready to defend their title, the King's Birthday clash is shaping up to be a true test of resilience and grit.