The Wrap: Tracking the path to NRL premiership glory

And then there were four.

Two blockbuster preliminary finals this weekend will decide who squares off at Accor Stadium on October 5 in the 2025 NRL grand final.

The Panthers' dream of a remarkable five-peat is alive and well after their 46-26 win over the Bulldogs and they now confront a Broncos outfit rested and ready for their shot at redemption for defeat in the 2023 decider.

With Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo and Brian To'o at their inspirational best, the Panthers have an undeniable chance of becoming the first team to win the premiership from outside the top four.

If Ivan Cleary's men can go all the way they'll become the first side since the all-conquering St George side of the 50s and 60s to win five straight titles.

The Broncos are set to welcome back skipper Adam Reynolds from a hamstring injury as they look to stop the Panthers juggernaut and give themselves a shot at their first premiership since 2006.

The presence of 2014 premiership winner Reynolds will be vital to the Broncos' chances of stopping a Panthers outfit that has won 12 of their 15 matches since slumping to last on the ladder after Round 12.

All eyes will be on another star playmaker ahead of Friday night's other preliminary final in Melbourne as Kiwi maestro Jahrome Hughes looks to overcome a fractured arm and take his place against the Sharks.

Hughes' season appeared to be over when he left the field in agony in Round 27 but the 30-year-old has worked around the clock to give himself an outside chance of running out in the sixth preliminary final of his career.

Should Hughes fail to come up then the Storm will again turn to young gun Jonah Pezet, who did an outstanding job in the qualifying final win over the Bulldogs.

All matches in Finals Week Three will be broadcast live on the Nine Network, Fox League, Kayo Sports, 9NOW and Sky NZ.

The Road to Glory

Finals Week 3 - Preliminary Finals

Storm v Sharks
Friday, September 26, 7.50pm (EST), AAMI Park