ABC NRL Daily

On InZane Rugby League this week Zane Bojack, former Raiders halfback Sam Williams and ABC Online rugby league reporter Mick Doyle discuss if Payne Haas is the greatest prop of all-time after playing 80 minutes in Brisbane's come-from-behind win over Penrith. 

Dual premiership winner Luke Lewis joins Brett Sprigg to dissect the preliminary finals and take a first look ahead to the 2025 decider featuring the Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos.

He might be best known for his songs poking fun at the great and good of Rugby League. But this week it's a deeply personal journey into the soul of the ABC Sport's Man of Sound as he attempts to make sense of the Canberra Raiders season. Denis Carnahan turns to the Commodores for his song of the week - You Won, Twice.

Ryan Hoffman (33:35) has seen more of the Storm than most this season and he reckons they probably not hit top gear since the 1st half of the 1st round pummelling of Parramatta. But the Storm legend thinks they're in great shape going into the NRL Grand Final. Hoffy reckons one of the biggest pluses is that they should be starting the big one with the Fab Four of Papenhuyzen, Munster, Hughes and Grant ready to go. Plus the kick off time of the Grand Final was up for debate between Luke Lewis and John Gibbs in 6 Again (8.37). And the 1st thought (43:45) is on Box Office players. 

It's getting down to the pointy end of the season and the finals match-ups this weekend have Quentin Hull and Ryan Hoffman licking their lips in anticipation. The Broncos are hoping to stop the Panthers from making their sixth grand final in a row and Corey Jensen spoke to Quentin Hull about their preparations and the impact of Madge. The team also speak to Melbourne CEO Justin Rodski and Sharks assistant coach Josh Hannay.

On InZane Rugby League - Zane Bojack and former Raiders halfback Sam Williams are joined by Broncos and Panthers legend Petero Civoniceva to preview the Grand Final Qualifier between Brisbane and Penrith at Lang Park on Sunday. 

Brett Sprigg is joined by premiership winner Dene Halatau to reflect on disappointments for Canberra and Canterbury, the unshakeable belief of Cronulla, and the bare reality of the Panthers' push for a fifth straight premiership.

Cronulla produced a powerful performance to end the campaign of Minor Premiers Canberra with back rower Billy Burns (34:32) scoring an all-important try. It's been quite the season for a player who was released from the Dragons and wasn't sure if he would keep playing. Now he's in a Preliminary final which, as he told Quentin Hull and the team, is a shock because he could scarcely believe he was playing finals while he was on the field in the Elimination Final against the Roosters. Meanwhile incoming Newcastle coach Justin Holbrook (1:20:07) explained what appealed to him about the Newcastle job, why he's pleased to have Dylan Brown on a 10 year contract and his preliminary chats with Kalyn Ponga. Plus John Gibbs chats to Bulldogs legend Chris Anderson (2:10:56) about his team's 1995 Grand Final win and you can hear Six Again (10:42) and First Thought (44:30).  And Ruan Sims (3:00:56) announces the winner of this years...Ruan Sims Medal.

There's no rest for the wicked as they say and despite 2 trips to Canberra in 7 days to watch his Raiders crash out of the finals in straight sets Denis Carnahan was back on the tools to deliver an updated version on one of the scourges of the modern game - Takin' a Dive. He pulled up his pants - probably a little too high from the sounds of this  - to knock out this Bee Gees inspired track in honour of M & M and H Gee.

On Inzane Rugby League this week - Zane Bojack was joined by Daily Telegraph rugby league reporter Michael Carayannis and AAP NRL writer Joel Gould. 

Extra, extra time. A Reece Walsh headbutt. Multiple sin bins. A disallowed, match winning try. A Ben Hunt redemption subplot. It was utter chaos in Canberra and the repercussions are enormous for the NRL finals picture as top ranked Canberra heads for elimination week and the Broncos head for a home preliminary final. We unpack a wild clash full of flow on effects.

Denis Carnahan is always telling anyone who will listen "I can do an excellent Scotch accent" and he puts his bold claim to the test with his Proclaimers themed tribute to the Brisbane Broncos bus based issues at Canberra Stadium. 

NRL CEO Andrew Abdo (30:41) is happy with the way finals are shaping up - but not too happy. He told Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and John Gibbs that he's always looking at ways the game can be improved - although he loathe to be too critical of the Bunker. He thinks that's something people lose perspective on at times at all levels of the game. Plus Cronulla hooker Blayke Brailey (1:05:34) told the team how proud he was with the way the Sharks calmly dealt with the pressure from the Roosters in their Elimination Final win. And Lewey and Gibbsy take on the big topics in the NRL in 6 Again (9:53) while the First Thought is, rather appropriately, the Canberra Raiders (47.44).

10 years on from one of the all time great NRL Grand Finals the emotions associated with that memorable day are still clear in the memory of Lachlan Coote. The Premiership winning North Queensland full back told Brett Sprigg how advice from Ivan Cleary persuaded him to join the Cowboys and how he quickly realised what a good team he was part of. He also explains how the match played out and the belief in the North Queensland players that got them home against the Broncos.

While the top 8 teams are playing finals there's a bit of reflection for those teams who didn't make the 8 and the coach of the 9th placed Dolphins - Kristian Woolf (1:20:16) - isn't really sure what to make of the season just gone. He told Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis that there were so many positives from 2025 that it was frustrating to ultimately miss finals. But the injuries that deprived them of so many key players did help develop a far deeper talent pool for 2026. The team also go through the positives and negatives for all the non-finals playing teams. Plus Melbourne Storm legend Ryan Hoffman (28:46) jumps on to discuss his former team's gritty win over the Bulldogs. Plus you can get your weekend fill of Rugby League news - and speculation - in MC's Hammertime (40:30).

It's been a season of incredible upsets, mind-blowing tries and wild comebacks, so what do the finals have in store? Quentin Hull, Luke Lewis and Ryan Hoffman chat to Raiders halfback Jamal Fogarty about their preparations for September, how big Papa is and the lessons he's learned from footy.

On InZane Rugby League this week Zane Bojack and former Raiders halfback Sam Williams are joined by ABC Sport commentator Quentin Hull for a three-tiered look at the finals. 

Brett Sprigg is joined by dual premiership winner Luke Lewis and Manly great John Gibbs to close the book on 27 rounds of footy and look ahead to our first week of finals.

For his song of the week Denis Carnahan reached deep into his closet, pulled out his tightest pants and open neck shirt and went all Latin for his tribute to the Human highlight reel - Mark Nawaqanitawase

It's ominous for the rest of the NRL but after winning 4 Premierships in a row the Panthers are primed for another big September. Back rower Scott Sorensen (31:17) told Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and John Gibbs that his Penrith team mates love this time of year and sense there's a buzz in the air. Plus you can catch a wonderful chat with Andrew Moore (1:13:33) talking to the ABC's acting head of Rugby League Michael Carayannis. Plus there's all your regular features - 6 Again (12:26) and a First Thought (46:42) on Rugby League Bad Boys.

Andrew Moore has given us an update to his health battles while detailing the moments of his heart attack chatting to Michael Carayannis. Andrew is continuing his recovery after being released from hospital, and is now resting around family and friends. 

It has been a rollercoaster season for Michael Maguire but he's now preparing his Brisbane side for a Qualifying final in Canberra next Sunday. Madge told Quentin Hull, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis how happy he was to see his team find the sort of game they displayed in beating the Storm on Thursday night. He also sang the praises of full back Reece Walsh but said it's not surprise when you see how hard he works. He also talked through the difficult selection decisions he faces over the next couple of weeks over Adam Reynolds and Gehemat Shibasaki.

Rooster James Tedesco (26:57) fittingly finished off the regular season guiding his team to a win over rivals South Sydney and picking up 3 points in the ABC Player of the Year award. That clinched that particular title for him although in reality he's had it in the bag for a while after a stellar season. He joined Quentin Hull, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis and admitted that one of the benefits of missing out on Rep Footy was that he avoided the physical and mental toll that Origin extracts. However he says he's always willing to answer the call if NSW or Australian selectors come knocking. Plus catch up on all the latest Rugby League news - and speculation - in MC's Hammertime (42:44).

The final round of the home and away season has started with a bang as the Broncos defeated the Storm and locked in their top-four spot. Quentin Hull, Dene Halatau, and Michael Carayannis discuss all the big talking points.

The Dolphins have rightly earned a reputation as the NRL's entertainers this season racking up a string of big scores. But they go into the final round of the season needed as favour from former coach Wayne Bennett's South Sydney side to make the finals. Whatever happens in Round 27 utility Kurt Donoghoe has been a real stand out this season and he told Quentin Hull and Billy Moore he's hoping for a strong defensive effort from his team this weekend. Plus you can hear from Melbourne Storm Football manager who gives his thoughts on Harry Grant being ruled out of the team of the year because of a suspension. And get all your tipping advice for Rd 27 in Christopher's Corner.

On InZane Rugby League this week Zane Bojack and former Raiders halfback Sam Williams debate the prospect of a wildcard round as a way of stopping the top teams from resting their stars prior to the finals. 

Brett Sprigg is joined by Daily Telegraph journalist and ABC Sport contributor Michael Carayannis. Does the NRL have an issue with resting players? How much do the Raiders deserve the minor premiership? Will the Roosters be fighting to keep Mark Nawaqanitawase? Should Harry Grant be eligible for the Dally Ms? Are the Eels on the right track? Are the Sharks top four worthy? Our recap of NRL Round 26 and NRLW Round 9.

There's no question that Denis Carnahan would have shed a tear for the departure of Des Hasler from the Gold Coast Titans. Dessie has provided a rich seam of material for ABC's Sport's Man of Sound who borrow a Rick Springfield number to pay tribute.

Canberra was virtually assured of the minor Premiership before the round 26 match with the Wests Tigers but for captain Joe Tapine (1:21:48) it was a relief to get the title secured in front of their own noisy fans. However he told Glen Lauder, Luke Lewis and John Gibbs that there were no wild celebrations afterwards and that the team is fully aware what's in front of them over the next month - which should involve a breather for the likes of Kaeo Weekes and Ethan Strange. Incoming Gold Coast Director of Football Scott Sattler (33:29) explained he's also got a busy time ahead as he tries to turn the Titans around. Plus Lewey and Gibbsy tackle the big issues of the week in Six Again (11:04) and the subject of today's first thought is Rugby League Freaks (50:01).

The Roosters have thrust themselves back into the NRL title debate after a 30 point thrashing of the Storm in Melbourne. While they are struggling to put consistent results together, Mark Nawaqanitawase is managing something sensational almost every week. His team-mate and ABC Sport favourite Connor Watson could hardly believe the 4 try performance from the former Rugby Union man. And he also talked Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis through the issues of trying to get to sleep after an adrenaline fuelled win.

The NRL top 8 is taking shape and Canterbury is locked into the top 4 after dealing with an understrength Penrith team in Round 26. Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo (31:10) was happy with the way his players coped with taking on an opponent they were expected to beat. He also told Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis that his players are also pretty fresh for this time of year. Plus you can catch up on all the latest Rugby League news - and speculation - in MC's Hammertime (42:55).

 Glen Lauder, Luke Lewis and John Gibbs discuss the move by Ivan Cleary to rest 16 players in their 28 to four loss against the Bulldogs last night.

Penrith Panthers CEO Matt Cameron joined Brett Sprigg and the team to give an update to the new Penrith Stadium, and also discuss his thoughts on Ivan Cleary resting 16 players before the big match against Canterbury. Cronulla prop Toby Rudolf also joined the show to tell some interesting tales, plus you can get your tips for the weekend in Christopher's Corner.

On Inzane Rugby League this week Zane Bojack and former Raiders halfback Sam Williams are joined by Canberra super-fan and ABC Sport man of sound  Denis Carnahan for a close look at the "Miracle in Mudgee." 

Brett Sprigg is joined by Queensland legend Billy Moore this week to run the rule over NRL Round 25. Is the season too long? Have Souths uncovered some gems amidst an injury crisis? Who clinches the final spot in the eight? And who does Billy think should have the next statue outside Lang Park? 

Denis Carnahan - or the Man in Green as he's sometimes known - turned his focus this week on the scourge of trainers spending too long on the field in the NRL. 

It's Country Rugby League Round in the NRL honouring the huge contribution made to the game by those from the bush. Few clubs have done more than the Gerringong Lions and old boy Ashton Sims (1:20:38) is now running the Group 7 Division and he is taking the responsibility seriously. He told Glen Lauder, Luke Lewis and John Gibbs that it's important for others in his position to make sure they leave the game in better shape than they found it. Meanwhile Manly utility Jazz Tevaga (31:07) said he's still hopeful of leaving the club on a high note by sneaking in to finals - maybe with a try for the season. Plus Lewey and Gibbsy tackle the big topics of the week in 6 Again (10:06) and First Thought (45:40) is suitably on Country Rugby League players. 

Melbourne have made sure of a top 2 finish and yet winger Grant Anderson reckons they are still waiting to put together a complete 80 minute performance. Anderson told Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis the Storm are delighted to be able to look forward to hosting 2 home finals and the chance to rest some players in their remaining games. He also talked about the inspiration of Marion Seve donning the goggles to help his team keep winning matches.

The man who scored the Miracle of Mudgee match winning try - Kaeo Weekes (19:51) - joined the team on Saturday NRL to walk them through Canberra's remarkable win over Penrith. The flying full back explained that he thought Nathan Cleary had kicked the field goal that eventually led to the Raiders' length of the field try. He also talked about his own personal journey and what it would mean to win the competition. Plus you  can catch up with all the latest rugby league news - and speculation - in MC's Hammertime (37:18).

Manly Hooker Jake Simpkin joined Brett Sprigg and the team to talk about his eventful Sunday where he became a father and then sped off in an Uber to play for the Sea Eagles later in the day.  Luke Lewis and John Gibbs talked about the future of international Football and how you may represent your country. MC's Hammertime gave us the latest news, plus you can get your tips for the weekend in Christopher's Corner.

On InZane Rugby League this week - Zane Bojack and former Raiders half Sam Williams are joined by dual codes superstar Wendall Sailor. 

Was our grand final rematch also our 2025 grand final preview? Brett Sprigg and John Gibbs also discuss the Tigers' resurgence, the Roosters' massive win over the Bulldogs...and how much will the Sharks miss Cam McInnes? All that in our wash-up of NRL Round 24 and NRLW Round 7.

There was plenty of concern for how the Broncos would fare after losing both halves to injury in the defeat by Melbourne, but the Bill and Ben combo helped do the job against local rivals the Dolphins. In fact they did so well that stand in five-eighth Billy Walters (1:11:36) told them there was no need to hurry back! He also told Glen Lauder, Luke Lewis and John Gibbs how media criticism of Reece Walsh motivated the full back to turn in one of his best performances. Meanwhile South Sydney's Tallis Duncan (28:07) explained why he's been apologising to Alex Johnston for keeping him away from breaking Ken Irvine's try scoring record. Plus Lewey and Gibbsy run through the topics of the week in 6 Again (11:14) and the 1st thought (42:44) is on unsung heroes. 

When Parramatta forward Shaun Lane announced this week that he was retiring the main feeling he experienced was relief. He told Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis that he hadn't been enjoying his football for a while and was struggling physically to reach the level he wanted. He talked about what's next for him and what and what he's proud of from his career. 

It's getting to that finely balanced stage in the NRL with results having larger and larger bearings on the race for the NRL finals. Brett Sprigg, Luke Lewis and Michael Carayannis discuss how the race is hotting up and how the rest of the round will affect the ladder. Plus you can catch up with the latest rugby league news - and speculation - in MC's Hammertime

Round 24 started off with a bang as the Storm defeated the Panthers in extra time. Glen Lauder, Dene Halatau and Michael Carayannis analyse the win, the controversial call with Harry Grant and look ahead to see if Friday night can live up to the first game of the round.

Penrith legend Royce Simmons is off and walking as he takes on another Big Walk to raise money for his foundation to tackle Dementia. This year he's heading to the Glen Willow Sporting Complex in Mudgee but stopped off at Western Sydney Stadium. He told Brett Sprigg and the team that the  Rugby League community has pulled together again even if he hasn't had Luke Lewis out on the road with him yet! Plus Souths gun youngster Jye Gray jumped on for a chat ahead of the clash with the Eels. He told the team what a confidence boost it is to have Supercoach Wayne Bennett back him as fullback even with a fit Latrell Mitchell back in the side. Plus you can get your tips for the weekend in Christopher's Corner.

On InZane Rugby League this week Zane Bojack and former Raiders halfback Sam Williams are joined by Roosters premiership captain Anthony Minichiello following the tri-colours stunning 64 to 12 victory over the Dolphins at Lang Park. 

Brett Sprigg is joined by John Gibbs this week to ponder Penrith's challenging run home, the Dragons' improvement, the Bulldogs shaking off the wet dog smell, NRLW Round 6 and more!

ABC Sport's resident song-smith Denis Carnahan has been looking into the genesis of struggling clubs getting a raw deal from referees. At least according to Wests Tigers supremo Shane Richardson.  

The great Connor Watson (31:53) is starting to dream of a finals appearance after his Roosters' 64-12 win over fellow finals contenders the Dolphins. He started from the bench and was watching on amused when the game exploded in the 9th minute with Spencer Leniu one of 4 players sent to the bin. But he realises that his team have been far too inconsistent over the whole season to take anything for granted even though they have given themselves a chance. Plus you can catch the odd couple - Luke Lewis and John Gibbs' views on the big topics of the week in Six Again (10:53) and the First Thought (50:02) this week is on Dud signings. Plus you can get to know the man behind the madness - The Cog - Ralph Tucker (1:16:40).