Live: Penrith pulls off shock switch for semifinal

The NRL's finals continue on Sunday as minor premiers Penrith Panthers host fourth-placed Sydney Roosters. The victor will host a preliminary final in two weeks and be just one win away from the grand final, while the loser faces off against Cronulla the following week. The Sydney side triumphed in their last encounter over a month ago but will be missing halfback Sam Walker, who is out with an ankle injury.

Talagi, who hasn't played much centre since joining Penrith, is now back at that position, having been utilized more as a five-eighth and lined up on the Panthers' left edge. It is expected that the Roosters will focus on the new combination early and often, targeting the fresh pairing of Talagi and Billy Smith. Changes are evident for both sides, but the most significant alteration is in Penrith's backline.

Blaize Talagi returns to the center role, while Luke Garner is absent from the lineup. Liam Henry begins at prop, and Lindsay Smith reverts to lock, with Isaah Yeo moving back to the bench. The Roosters have also made adjustments, starting Egan Butcher at second row and moving Salesi Foketi to the bench. Welcome to the final game of the first week of the finals.

We have a blockbuster today as the Panthers take on the Roosters. The winner will host a preliminary final and be just one match away from the grand final, while the loser will face Cronulla in a sudden-death showdown. This is what it's all about – the reason we do what we do. Let's have some fun.