We asked ChatGPT how the Canberra Raiders would go, and it spat out an interesting signing

Yeah okay, maybe artificial intelligence isn't quite there yet.

We asked AI how the Raiders would fare during the NRL season and it seems coach Ricky Stuart has been on a secret recruitment drive to spring a surprise on North Queensland in round one.

"Pearce brings a wealth of experience and leadership that will be a great asset to the young squad," the AI chatbot said, somehow linking the State of Origin-winning Catalans Dragons playmaker to the Raiders.

It has Sia Soliola and Jack Murchie pegged for big roles at the Raiders this year too - so anyone fearing AI is about to steal your job can probably rest easy.

MORE CANBERRA SPORT

But if you're looking for some hope from the bots, "the Canberra Raiders have been on a steady rise in the NRL since their last premiership victory in 1994, and with a solid core of young talent, the team appears set to reach new heights in the 2023 season".

Josh Papali'i and Elliott Whitehead will be crucial. Corey Harawira-Naera and Emre Guler have shown "tremendous potential".

In reality, anything less than a finals appearance will be deemed a failure for the Raiders, who Stuart believed could have been a top-four team last year if not for a heavy injury toll.

A round one win would be something of an upset in Townsville against a side tipped to be a serious title threat.

We've made it a whole lot easier for you to have your say. Our new comment platform requires only one log-in to access articles and to join the discussion on The Canberra Times website. Find out how to register so you can enjoy civil, friendly and engaging discussions. See our moderation policy here.