NRL news from around the web
‘Basket case’ Bears’ big issues exposed as ‘mess’ takes toll on PNG player race
from FOX SPORTS League
Papua New Guinea’s signing of Jarome Luai has highlighted the Perth Bears’ roster-building challenges, but some of it is their own making with the expansion club branded a “basket case” in recent months.
Women’s State of Origin 2026: NSW vs Queensland Game 1 preview, Nathan Cross on selection process, video
from FOX SPORTS League
Newly installed Queensland women’s coach Nathan Cross has unlocked a selection process he believes will give the Maroons their best shot yet at Origin redemption.
Verdict on awkward Munster call; troubling question Dogs can’t escape — NRL Buy or Sell
from FOX SPORTS League
Origin selection for Game 1 is 18 days away and there are a couple of star players in poor form who would normally be walk-up starters. Will they be picked?
Blues out to rewrite State of Origin history in Newcastle series opener
from ABC News: Rugby League
The Blues are yet to enjoy success in Newcastle, a fact they are mindful of ahead of the first Women's State of Origin match against the Maroons.
‘Alarm bells’ ringing for Panthers over skipper’s ‘astonishing’ contract admission
from FOX SPORTS League
Are “alarm bells” ringing at the Panthers and Tigers following Jarome Luai’s shock defection to the PNG Chiefs from 2028?
NRL 2026: Paul Crawley column, Reed Mahoney feud with Bulldogs after axing, Sam Walker worried about Nathan Cleary joining Roosters, Jarome Luai exiting Tigers
from FOX SPORTS League
It will be interesting to see what reception the Bulldogs have installed for their old mate Reed Mahoney on Friday night - and vice versa.
How the NRL’s newest team could trigger mass player movement
from Stuff.co.nz - League
The Papua New Guinea Chiefs have been granted tax-free status for at least 10 years. Chris Barrett
NRL Power Rankings: Brutal finals reality for sliding contender; proof title dark horse has changed
from FOX SPORTS League
The Panthers remain on top of the NRL power rankings for another week and after a largely predictable round of results, there isn’t too much movement.
‘Where else could he go?’ Tigers shift focus to call that’s ‘bigger than Luai’ as decision date looms
from FOX SPORTS League
The departure of Jarome Luai to the PNG Chiefs means the majority of the attention of the Wests Tigers will now shift towards retaining star fullback Jahream Bula.
‘Inflate the market’: Luai payday sparks fears of PNG edge, ‘Super League’-type dynasty
from FOX SPORTS League
Braith Anasta has likened the introduction of the PNG Chiefs to the now-defunct Australian Super League competition due to the tax-free dollars players can earn when they sign with the club.