NRL news from around the web

New Zealand-born NRL player given six-week ban for homophobic slur

from Stuff.co.nz - League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 1:10pm AEST

Newcastle Knights back-rower Asu “AJ” Kepaoa has been suspended for six weeks and apologised for using a homophobic slur against an opponent. Dan Walsh and Christian Nicolussi

‘Load of garbage’: Broncos coach’s fiery response over shock Haas rumour

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 12:43pm AEST

Brisbane coach Michael Maguire has rubbished reports that prop Payne Haas could switch clubs mid-season, calling the speculation a “load of garbage”.

‘Handled by Gus’: Twist over disgruntled Dogs star’s future as Ciraldo addresses exit rumours

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 12:31pm AEST

Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo says there have been no discussions about releasing strike centre Bronson Xerri before the June 30 deadline amid speculation the Storm and Eels are keen to sign him immediately.

Brisbane Broncos warn of scam offering fake mascot auditions

from ABC News: Rugby League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 12:13pm AEST

A scam is circulating online falsely offering fans a chance to audition to be the Brisbane Broncos' mascot in exchange for payment.

Brutal twist as Dragons star goes down in training mishap; Bunnies absence explained — NRL Late Mail

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 11:19am AEST

The Dragons have been dealt a blow with a forward going down at training after colliding with a teammate.

‘Disgrace’: Great’s fury as former representative star reveals brutal axing over Blues comments

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 11:05am AEST

Former Kangaroos representative Reni Maitua has claimed he was stood down from his position with the NSWRL due to his criticism of the Blues team on a weekly podcast.

Paul Crawley: $1.3m Moses double standard in Latrell debate; Andrew Johns push exposes Blues’ Origin debacle

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 8:49am AEST

Why doesn’t Mitchell Moses cop the same tough questions over the value for money he is giving Parramatta compared to the criticism constantly directed at Latrell Mitchell?

Joey’s blunt response to Matty’s Blues coaching call; sad reason for Roosters job offer — NRL Daily

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 7:07am AEST

NSW Origin legend Andrew Johns has ruled out coaching the Blues, in response to a suggestion from brother Matty, saying he is completely ill-equipped for the job.

NRL 2026: Matty Johns’ theory on why Bulldogs switched Matt Burton and Stephen Crichton, Canberra Raiders form, Round 17 talking points and analysis

from FOX SPORTS League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 6:00am AEST

The Raiders’ stunning fall from grace has been laid bare while one NRL great has offered his take on why the Bulldogs made the bold call to move Matt Burton and Stephen Crichton.

Knights player Kepaoa banned for six weeks for homophobic slur

from ABC News: Rugby League

Thu, 25 Jun 2026 at 5:49am AEST

Newcastle Knights player Asu Kepaoa is handed a six-week ban for using a homophobic slur during a NSW Cup match.