Western region sides Forbes Magpies, Orange CYMS and Bathurst Panthers will face vastly different challenges at the West Wyalong Knockout following the release of the draw.
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Orange CYMS has arguably got the easier of the opening round matches and their chances have been boosted even further with the news, NRL backrower Chris Grevsmuhl looks set to play for the club at the annual competition after gun training with the green and golds over the last month.
Grevsmuhl left Penrith for personal reasons mid-way through the 2016 season but has been training with CYMS after temporarily moved to Orange with his fiance Tori Moore, a former league tag gun with the green and golds.
CYMS captain-coach Mick Sullivan says, however, Grevsmuhl still holds ambitions of playing in Sydney this year, but is likely to have a run at West Wyalong next Friday.
The green and golds will kick-off its campaign, worth nigh on $15,000 this year, against Group 9 club Temora on February 24.
“He’s had the last six sessions with us, he’s been here for close to a month now,” Sullivan said.
“Grevsmuhl will be great to have there. He’s keen and his experience would be great for us.”
Forbes will play Group 9 premiers Southcity Bulls in a blockbuster early on in the tournament while early Group 10 favourites Bathurst Panthers have a tough draw, set to face Group 9 powerhouse Albury Thunder.