The 2014 NRL season will kick off with a string of Round 1 blockbusters, with Ben Barba returning to ANZ Stadium to face his old club the Bulldogs and old foes Manly and Melbourne reigniting the 'Battle of Brookvale'.

Reigning premiers the Roosters will again face traditional rivals South Sydney in the opening game of the season, kicking off at 8pm local time on Thursday March 6.

The Broncos will take on the Bulldogs in Sydney in Friday night football, with the Sea Eagles hosting the Storm at 7pm Saturday.

The other two Saturday games will see the Panthers take on Newcastle at Centrebet Stadium and the Cowboys host the Raiders in Townsville.

Sunday afternoon's clash is St George Illawarra up against Wests Tigers, with Parramatta to play the Warriors on Sunday night and Cronulla and the Gold Coast completing the round on Monday night.

The full 2014 season draw will be revealed on NRL.com at 11am (AEDT) today.