The New Zealand Warriors have been the perennial sleeping giants of rugby league ever since their inception way back in 1995.

On opening night they went head-to-head with Allan Langer’s Brisbane Broncos. This weekend they celebrate that historic occasion with another showdown with the Broncos.

This round four encounter will be a great test for the Auckland-based team who come up against a Brisbane side that smashed North Queensland last time out.

Former Cronulla, Sydney City and New Zealand centre Richie Barnett believes the Warriors have the right mix of talent spread across the paddock.

“Watching them play, it just feels as though when the going gets tough there is a belief and confidence that key individuals will perform,” Barnett wrote in his New Zealand Herald column.

“With the likes of Ryan Hoffman, Bodene Thompson, Simon Mannering, Ben Matulino and Manu Vatuvei playing such consistent football, you’ve got guys right across the park in all aspects of the game who are really delivering.

“… While the Warriors are yet to put together a complete 80-minute performance, there are signs that they can develop into a more powerful team.

“With more control and a greater completion rate they will be a devastating side. And when they can tick those boxes and play an up-tempo style they will be hard to beat.”