Parramatta will play derbies against Canterbury, Wests Tigers and Penrith in consecutive weeks as part of a high-profile start to the 2016 season for the club.

The Eels, who will host the premiership opener against Brisbane at Pirtek Stadium on March 3, are also due to face the Bulldogs, Tigers and Panthers within the first five weeks of the season.

The match against Canterbury is scheduled for Friday, March 18, at ANZ Stadium, and Parramatta will meet the Tigers in the annual Easter Monday clash on March 28 and Penrith on April 3.

The NRL is expected to officially release the draw on Thursday after consulting the clubs. Most of the game's blockbusters are pencilled in, including the Good Friday clash between the Bulldogs and South Sydney at ANZ Stadium and the ANZAC Day match between St George Illawarra and Sydney Roosters at Allianz Stadium.