Sea Eagles unveil Brooks as four clubs opt for trial hit-out

Manly fans will get their first opportunity to see star recruit Luke Brooks in action when the Sea Eagles take on the Rabbitohs in Saturday's pre-season trial at Gosford.

Sea Eagles coach Anthony Seibold has named a strong squad that also features newcomers Tommy Talau, Nathan Brown and Corey Waddell but it's former Tiger Brooks who will create the most interest as he makes a fresh start after 11 seasons at Leichhardt.

Rabbitohs assistant coach Joe O’Callaghan has handed fullback Braidon Burns the captaincy of the side for their first pre-season hit-out, with Taane Milne lining up in the centres.

With news out of Redfern on Thursday that star centre Campbell Graham would be sidlined for up to six months after surgery on his sternum, Milne gets a chance to make a statement in the battle to fill the vacancy.

Two other NRL clubs have also opted for a pre-season trial this weekend as they continue their build-up to the Pre-Season Challenge and the Telstra Premiership kick-off in March.

On Saturday, the Brisbane Broncos will take on feeder club Wynnum Manly Seagulls at Kougari Oval, with a number of young players looking to press their credentials.

Rising forwards Xavier Willison and Ben Te Kura are the starting props, with Blake Mozer to start at hooker. 

Deine Mariner, who has been training outside Kotoni Staggs in the place of the injured Jesse Arthars, has been named on the wing against his Hostplus Cup side who he played 14 games for last season. 

Tristan Sailor and new forward signing Jaiyden Hunt are part of an extended bench.

The Dolphins are also in action on Saturday afternoon against their affiliate club the Capras in Rockhampton.

Dolphins assistant coach Nathan Fien has named plenty of NRL experience, with Tesi Niu, Valynce Te Whare, Jack Bostock, Kurt Donoghoe, Oryn Keeley and Mason Teague all included.