League Express Podcast

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action from the Challenge Cup Final at Wembley, whether Warrington can bounce back from another major final loss and whether Hull KR can go on to win Super League. They discuss York's gritty golden point win over Featherstone, the Women's Wigan side knocking the defending Challenge Cup Champions St Helens off the podium and whether the weekend was a success. They discuss Australia searching for a new coach following Mal Meninga' accepting the Perth Bears job, Kai Pearce Paul signing with the Tigers and discuss Cameron Munster being announced as Maroons captain following Daly Cherry-Evans axing.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action from the weekend, last week's State of Origin opener and who they think will win this weekend's Challenge Cup Final. They discuss the rumours around a Tom Trbojevic and whether he will end up in Super League, Ryan Hall extending with Leeds and whether Mal Meninga has the Perth Bears coaching role locked in. They preview the 1895 Cup match, the women's Challenge Cup final and discuss what changes Billy Slater could make for game two of the Origin series. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss which team has recruited the best this year, some new interest in Super League investors and what the future of London Rugby League holds. They discuss Steve McNamara losing his job, George Williams to the Dolphins whispers and the latest on Lachlan Galvin. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss which coaches find themselves on the hot seat, the strategic review group meeting with Super League clubs and why the Salford City Council have pulled out of stadium negotiations with the new Salford owners. They discuss the Vegas team's being announced, a potential World Club Challenge date and whether AJ Brimson could make Shaun Wane's Ashes squad. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss this Salford CEO Chris Irwin stepping down as Salford CEO, Luke Keary's scathing comments about the quality of Super League and take a look at all the Magic Weekend action. They discuss whether St Helens coach Paul Wellens should be feeling the pressure, what Rugby League can learn fro the AFL and the new Perth Bears deal the NRL has struck with the Western Australian Government. They also preview this weekend's Challenge Cup Semi Finals and give their predictions for who will get to Wembley. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss Nick Politis' investing in a Super League club and his interest in re-branding the Salford Red-Devils to the Salford Roosters. They discuss the Perth Bears bid being approved by the NRL for 2027 and what impact that will have on the new PNG side for 2028 and more broadly whether there is enough talent to sustain 18 clubs in the NRL and 12 in the Super League. They discuss the Batley Bulldogs hitting back at claims made by the Wests Tigers CEO on James Graham's 'The Bye Round' podcast and preview this weekend's Magic Weekend match ups. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the weekend's Easter Derby results, a new attendance record and who the standout players were over the weekend. They discuss Wigan signing Rugby Star Christian Wade, Leigh signing Joe Ofahengaue and Lewis Dodd making his NRL debut. They provide an update on Salford, give praise to George Whitby and discuss whether Jonny Lomax will be back in the Saints lineup this weekend. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Wales Head Coach and BBC Pundit John Kear to discuss all the action on the weekend, this weekend's Easter rivalry weekend and react to Salford Red Devils CEO Chris Irwin's interview before their match. John gives his thoughts on an NRL takeover, whether he would support a 10-team competition and whether a record will be broken for crowd attendances this weekend. They discuss Hull FC's resurgence under John Cartwright, all the dramas surrounding Lachlan Galvin at the Wests Tigers and whether we could see him in the UK. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the weekend's Challenge Cup results, the new information regarding an NRL stake in Super League and whether French sides have a future in Super League. They discuss a special London Broncos press conference at the Australian High Commission next week, the Ashes ticket sales Kallum Watkins transferring to Leeds. They also discuss Hull KR's interest in Adam Reynolds, Lewis Dodd's unlucky suspension and whether Penrith can recover after losing four in a row. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss this weekend's Challenge Cup fixtures, Martyn's concerns regarding the Ashes series and who they think will win the Hull derby. They discuss an anonymous complaint of a misogynistic culture at the RFL headquarters, what came out of yesterday's RFL Board meeting and the latest in the Salford Red Devils saga. They discuss Jai Field's new contract, Will Pryce to Hull FC, the Tom Amone to Leigh whispers and whether Payne Hass will represent Australia or Samoa this year.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the weekend's results, Marc Sneyd's Warrington debut and the whispers we're hearing around a potential NRL Europe competition. They discuss the Hull FC revival under John Cartwright, Hull KR's perfect start to the season and what they have learnt five weeks into the Super League season. They discuss the latest with the RFL's board of directors, Daly Cherry-Evans announcing his departure from the Manly Sea-Eagles and Brandon Smith signing with the South Sydney Rabbitohs. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Rochdale Hornets Chairman Andy Mazey to discuss the progression of Rochdale Hornets, the state of the game across all three competitions and the struggles of running a club with declining central distribution. They discuss the recent resignation of Simon Johnson, the appointment of Nigel Wood and how clubs across all levels are ready for change. They discuss the clubs plans to grow their support, the impact Vegas has had on the lower levels and Andy's past working at Leigh and Swinton. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the latest RFL news with Chairman Simon Johnson standing down from his position. They discuss Nigel Wood taking over as the interim chair, why clubs wanted Wood and what changes we may see. They discuss all the weekend's action including Thursday nights thriller, round 1 of the NRL and Dylan Brown's $13-million deal with the Knights. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action that took place at Las Vegas over the weekend. They discuss whether the weekend was a success, the American TV figures and where to next for the England Women after their disappointing performance. They discuss which teams should be considered next year, how many games should be played and how the weekend can be improved. They discuss the on-going Salford saga, a new Rugby League video game and preview this weekends Super League and NRL action. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Rugby League Journalist and Love Rugby League website founder James Gordon to preview this weekend's Las Vegas fixtures. They discuss the impact Vegas will have on Super League, the importance of continuing to invest in the fixture and give their predictions. They discuss Peter Vlandy's continued interest in buying the Super League and whether discussions might continue in Vegas. James discusses the Luke Littler effect and how the game should continue to use high profiles to advertise the sport while investing in growing the profiles of the players. They also discuss Hull KR's injury woes, St Helens attacking flair under Lee Briers and give their round 3 predictions. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the Round 1 action including the historic Leigh win over Wigan, the embarrassing Salford loss and the ramifications of the match being broadcasted on BBC. They discuss who impressed them in round 1, which recruits stood out the most and whether they need to re-think some of their bold predictions. They discuss round 4 of the Challenge Cup draw, the RFL's investigation into Salford and preview this weekend's matches. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Wales Rugby League Coach and BBC Pundit John Kear to preview the 2025 Super League season and give their bold predictions. They discuss a reported Super League Club's 'Coup' to get rid of the current RFL Chairman Simon Johnstone and have him replaced with Nigel Wood, whether Salford will be allowed to have access to their full roster this weekend and the news of Christian Welch's retirement announcement. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Former France Rugby Union Defensive Coach David Ellis to discuss the importance of teaching kids how to tackle from a young age to reduce the risk of concussion. They also discuss David's playing and coaching career which saw him win multiple six-nations titles with France and reach the 2011 World Cup Final as a coach. They also preview this weekend's Challenge Cup fixtures. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the pre-season trials and Challenge Cup fixtures that took place over the weekend. They discuss Maika Sivo's ACL injury and what the repercussions are for Leeds, York defeating Hull KR in Amsterdam and whether Salford will need to off-load some players. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the York RLFC Chairman Clint Goodchild to discuss York's quest to reach Super League status, the clubs goals for 2025 and when they expect to be promoted to the top tier. They discuss Clint's business career, his humble upbringing in a small regional town in Western Queensland and what lead him to purchase York in 2022. They discuss the future of the sport, whether the game could be sold to American fans the success of the York Valkyire.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the latest at the Salford Red Devils and whether they can be saved ahead of the 2025 season. They give their thoughts on round 3 of the Challenge Cup fixtures, discuss Josh Rourke being awarded the Albert Goldthorpe Rookie of the Year award and discuss which NRL recruit will have the biggest impact on their new club. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the back to back Super League winning coach Matty Peet. Matty reflects on the the first three years of his head coaching career in which he has achieved two Premiership wins, two Challenge Cup wins, two League Leaders Shield trophies as well as the World Club Challenge trophy. Matty discusses how he worked his way through the ranks to take the reigns at Wigan, how they have developed the Wigan identity and discusses what coaches have had the greatest influence on him. Matty discusses his coaching philosophies, his hunger to learn from coaches in other sports and talks about the stability the club has moving forward. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the Boxing Day matches between the Leeds Rhino and Wakefield Trinity, the Batley Bulldogs and Dewsbury Rams as well as another trial match between the Bradford Bulls and the Keighley Cougars. They discuss the winner of the League Express Man and Woman of the year awards, the nominees for the Albert Goldthorpe rookie of the year award and reveal the top 10 moments of 2024. They discuss Ezra Mam's ban, the signing of Arthur Morgue to Hull KR and also discuss which players are in for a breakout season.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss Wigan Warriors adding BBC Sports Personality Team of the Year award to their trophy cabinet, their thoughts on the Golden Boot award and whether the criteria should be changed and the North Queensland Cowboys signing John Bateman. They discuss the Salford City Council purchasing Salford Stadium, whispers of a potential wealthy investor looking to buy the Red Devils and whether the game is at risk of losing its best talent to Rugby Union. They also recap their best moments of the season and discuss their 2025 wishes. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by former Great Britain International Jermaine McGillvary. They discuss McGillvary's childhood, how he got into playing Rugby League and what were some of his career highlights. They discuss his experiences playing under Wayne Bennett for England and Great Britain, why he left the Huddersfield Giants and his experience playing at Wakefield Trinity last season. Jermaine discusses life after football, the excitement of mentoring his sons who have been signed by Manchester City and Manchester United and what the future holds for the McGillvary family. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Wales Rugby League coach and BBC pundit John Kear to discuss his career as a player, coach and TV pundit. They discuss the state of the game domestically and internationally, whether it was a good idea to cut the World Cup participating sides from 16 back to 10 and whether we need to re-think the season schedule. John discusses the impact Magic Weekend is having on the Challenge Cup, gives his take on IMG and throws his support behind suspended Sheffield Eagles coach Mark Aston. He also reflects on the high's and lows of his career and whether the game needs to bring back the 9's format. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Hunslet RLFC CEO Neil Hampshire to discuss the clubs promotion to the Championship, IMG's impact on clubs outside of Super League and the clubs history. They discuss how things could have been different had the club not been denied promotion to Super League back in 1999, a surprise bid from the Leicester Tigers to purchase the clubs Rugby League license back in the day and Neil explains how a junior academy draft system could benefit the sport. Neil gives his thoughts on the state of the game and whether Championship and League 1 matches need to be televised. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by former referee Ben Thaler to discuss his involvement in the weekends 745 cross-code match raising money for Rob Burrow, Ed Slater and Doddie Weir. They discuss how Ben became a referee, some of his favourite moments and some of the moments he would like to have back. They discuss Ben's new role with the RFL, the current state of officiating and what changes could be made. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the Salford Red Devils CEO Paul King to discuss his rise to become the Chief Executive, his early days as a business consultant and how that lead to his professional involvement with the club. They discuss the financial struggles of not having a wealthy benefactor, the impact IMG has had on the club and how they can achieve a grade A rating. They discuss the recent form of Nene Macdonald and whether he will remain at Salford next season. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss England's triumphant 2-0 series win over Samoa, Tonga's shock win over the Kiwi's and preview this weekend's Pacific Championship finals. They discuss Brian Noble's return to Bradford, where Ben Hunt and Josh Addo Car will end up and a sneaky IMG press conference Martyn was not aware of. Martyn also discusses a disappointing act by the RFL prior to Saturday's match, some potential Golden Boot nominees, a potential return of the War of Roses and what we can expect from the Ashes series next year. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss England's game 1 win over Samoa and whether Shaun Wane will make any changes for game 2, the Ashes series being moved to England from Australia next year and react to the IMG Grading's. They also review all the Pacific Championship results over the weekend including Australia's win over New Zealand. They discuss the 18-month suspension handed to Sheffield Eagles coach Mark Anston and give their take on whether the penalty was too harsh. They also discuss Leeds signing Maika Sivo, Salford signing Chris Hill and Castleford appointing Danny McGuire as head coach. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss Castleford Tigers new ownership deciding to part ways with coach Craig Lingard, Paul Rowley being appointed Salford's new Director of Rugby from 2026 and preview the IMG Gradings announcement. They also review all the action from week 1 of the Pacific Championship and preview this weekend's England vs Samoa match. They discuss Wakefield winning the championship Grand Final, Max Jowitt breaking the single season point scoring record and Ezra Mam's off-field incident. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Great Britain Legend Garry Schofield OBE to give their in depth analysis of the Super League Grand Final. They discuss what this season means for the club, whether they'll go on to be one of the greatest teams in the modern era and discuss who could possibly stop them next season. They reflect on Hull KR's season, how they can bounce back and applaud the clubs success this season. They also delve into Bevan French's performance as the inaugural Rob Burrow award winner, shine line on other stand out performers and discuss the weekend's Championship and League 1 results which saw Wakefield and Toulouse advance through to the Grand Final while Hunslet were promoted to the Championship following their win over Swinton. They also take a look at this weekend's international fixtures and discuss the ridiculous charge Peta Hiku is facing. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan give their Super League Grand Final predictions. They also discuss Penrith Panthers winning their fourth straight NRL premiership over the Melbourne Storm, they discuss whether Penrith are the greatest team of all time and give their Man of Steel and Coach of the year award predictions. They discuss Penrith's decision to not participate in next seasons World Club Challenge, the need to re-think the season schedule to priorities the International game and also react to the International squad's being named. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action from week 1 of the Super League playoffs. They preview this weekend's NRL Grand Final and Super League Semi-Finals, discuss the Brisbane Broncos replacing Kevin Walters with Michael Maguire and take a look at this season's young player of they year candidates. They reflect on whether Salford and St Helens season's were a success, who will be shortlisted for the Man of Steel award and Junior Nsemba's contract extension with Wigan. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the weekends results as well as who was snubbed from the Dream Team, what rules are under review at this week's RFL Laws Committee and who has won the Albert Goldthorpe medal. They discuss Martyn's column in this month's Rugby League World magazine on the need for better Super League branding, Wigan wining the League Leaders shield and take a look at the NRL Grand Final Qualifiers. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action from the weekend including the battle for playoff spots and the League Leaders shield. They also discuss Warrington rejecting NRL interest in Danny Walker, Hull FC signing Jordan Rapana and Aiden Sezer and the latest inductees into the RFL Hall of Fame.  Martyn and Jake also discuss who will secure the League Leaders shield, whether Leigh, Leeds or Catalans will secure the final playoff spot and whether Hull FC or London will finish last. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action from the weekend including whether players are milking penalties, the England squad announcement and who was snubbed from selection. They preview the NRL finals and discuss a Wakefield club record being broken by Max Jowitt, Wakefield's kind gesture to Whitehaven and discuss the appointment of Lee Briers as St Helens assistant coach and Luke Robinson being made permanent as Huddersfield's coach. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the action from the weekend including the controversial sending off of Warrington Wolves prop Paul Vaughan. They discuss the continued rumours of the NRL buying Super League, the issue with Super League and Clubs branding and whether the War of Roses fixture should return. They discuss Jason Demetriou's appointment as the PNG Kumuls coach, Hull KR signing Rhys Martin and discuss the fallout from Elliot Whitehead's hip drop tackle on Brandon Smith. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss St Helens signing Kyle Feldt, Leeds extending Brad Arthur for another season and who the is the frontrunner for the coach of the year award. They also discuss Roger Tuivasa Sheck pledging his allegiance to Samoa, Jayden Nikorima's form with Salford, Cai Taylor-Wray's impressive game for Warrington and why the season needs to be shorter. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss whether Magic Weekend at Elland Road was a success, if Hull KR are the best team in Super League and where Leigh rank on form. They also discuss Oldham's promotion to the Championship, Sam Burgess being inducted into the NRL Hall of Fame and whether Castleford's new partnership with the Manly Sea Eagles is a good idea. They discuss St Helens and Leeds Rhino's worrying financial reports, who will be the next immortal and which venue they would like to see host next year's Magic Weekend. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the weekend's match up's including Leeds big win over Wigan, St Helens golden point thriller and London's frightening comeback against Warrington. They discuss Saint's recruitment of Tristan Sailor, a new Rugby League doping study and the financial struggles at Whitehaven. They also take a look at this weekend's magic weekend fixtures and discuss whether the event will attract a big attendance. 

In this week's episode, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan celebrate their 50th episode by discussing the weekend's matches, Catalans recruitment and Shaun Johnsons retirement. They also discuss reports surrounding redundancies at the RFL and the advertisement of a new Director of Marketing and Communications role. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss the weekend's fixtures, what is going wrong at St Helens and Australia officially being announced as the hosts of the Rugby League World Cup in 2026. They also discuss Warrington's signing of John Bateman, Adam Hill becoming the President of the RFL and how ticket sales are going for Vegas. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the Leigh Leopards Owner Derek Beaumont. In part two of this two part episode, they discuss Derek's decision to rebrand the club, how we can grow the sport and Derek gives his thoughts on IMG.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the Leigh Leopards Owner Derek Beaumont. In part 1 of this two part episode, they discuss Derek's upbringing, his business and how he became involved in Rugby League. They also discuss winning the 1895 Cup and Challenge Cup in consecutive years.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the Bradford Bulls CEO Jason Hirst. They discuss how he got involved in the game, his plans to get Bradford back into Super League and the current state of Rugby League. They also discuss IMG and how we can grow the sport.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Wigan Warriors Chairman Chris Brookes. In part 2 of their conversation they discuss what makes Wigan so successful, the future of the club, how to grow the game and whether IMG has had a positive impact on the sport.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Wigan Chairman Chris Brookes. In Part 1 of this 2 part podcast they discuss his career as a Doctor and how he first got involved in Rugby League. They discuss some of the memorable moments of his career, they great coaches he has coached under and brushing shoulders with Hollywood superstars.

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by the Managing Director of Oldham RLFC Mike Ford. They reflect on Mikes playing career, his coaching career, discuss how he got into coaching Rugby Union, becoming the England Rugby Union defensive coach and what his plans are in his current role with Oldham. 

In this week's episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by Great Britain Legend Garry Schofield to discuss all of the Challenge Cup action. They also discuss Leeds Rhino's appointment of Ian Blease as Sporting Director, Hull FC's recruitment as well as their reaction to State Of Origin game 1 and the controversial send off.