The former Warriors star has not played since he needed fluid drained from his brain after suffering three separate blows to the head before and during Tonga’s Pacific Championships clash with New Zealand last November. Christian Nicolussi

The second week of the men’s Rugby League World Cup is almost here, with a few powerhouse teams resting stars as one eye turns towards the semi-finals.

Plans for a new lakeside stadium in the centre of Canberra have emerged this month, with ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr calling for the proposed rectangular venue to also be configured for AFL and cricket matches.

Alex Conti and Mitchell Woods have taken different paths to the NRL in recent years, but the childhood mates remain united by a shared ambition to play alongside each other for the Canterbury Bulldogs.

Rising star Salesi Foketi will never complain if he receives a poor pass from dummy-half after the boom back-rower was thrust into the unfamiliar role for the first time in his career in Tonga’s statement win over England at the World Cup.

Not even a legal fight with New Zealand Rugby could prevent the new NRL club from unveiling a motif they believe will unite a nation. Adrian Proszenko

The PNG Chiefs logo brings together elements representative of the country ahead of its NRL debut in 2028.

The PNG Chiefs have officially unveiled their inaugural logo and jersey as the NRL’s soon-to-be 19th team prepares to enter the league in 2028.

"This is insane. No normal human being can do this,'' bellowed rugby league commentator Andrew Voss after watching Casey McLean score his miracle try. Richard Knowler

It sounds like Sam Walker could be locked in as a Rooster for life as early as next week.