Also returning is winger Sunia Turuva, who was surprisingly dropped to reserve grade for the past two weeks.

The 21-year-old had scored 14 tries in 18 first-grade appearances this season but was axed in a strong statement from coach Ivan Cleary.

After two rounds in the NSW Cup working on his defensive game, Turuva will return to the Panthers’ NRL side against the Rabbitohs.

Fellow outside back Izack Tago believes Turuva’s non-selection sent a message to the squad.

“Everyone here is a professional athlete so it’s pretty hard,” he told media ahead of Round 26.

“Everyone’s pushing for a spot and it’s just the way things worked out.

“I’m sure [Turuva] is grateful to be back in. It’s well-deserved.”

The reigning NRL champions recently suffered back-to-back losses – against the Storm and Raiders – for the first time this campaign, and will now be looking to finish the regular season strongly.

Currently, the Panthers are level on points with the Roosters (2nd) and Sharks (3rd) but sit in fourth due to their +158 point differential.

With the minor premiership officially out of reach, Penrith will hope to regain some form and enter the finals in a favourable position on the ladder.

A fourth-place finish would mean an undesirable qualifying final against Melbourne, who are set to enter that clash fresh after resting several star players.