Rugby League Insider - James Hooper NRL podast

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by two-time premiership winner Anthony Watmough, Sydney Morning Herald journalist Christian Nicolussi and Brandon Savage to unpack the biggest rugby league talking points. The team break down the epic Tonga v Samoa World Cup clash, Junior Paulo’s shoulder charge, and whether anyone can stop the Kangaroos.

Plus, November 1 free agency is officially here: Jack Bostock’s next move, Herbie Farnworth and the Roosters, Nathan Cleary’s Penrith v PNG decision, a possible Matt Burton–Sam Walker swap, Hudson Young and AJ Brimson to PNG, the latest from Melbourne and what’s going on at Manly.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome: November 1 is here and free agency is open

0:55 — Tonga v Samoa: an Origin-style World Cup epic

5:51 — Junior Paulo’s shoulder charge: will he miss the Kangaroos clash?

8:53 — Can anyone beat Australia? The forward pack battle

13:43 — How the game unfolded: Ronnie Volkman, Spencer Leniu and the goal-kicking woes

17:21 — Chuck’s Halloween mask prank on Brandon

20:27 — Can Tonga or Samoa go all the way?

21:30 — The miracle injury comebacks: what’s going on?

27:32 — November 1 mayhem: Jack Bostock to the Dragons and Herbie Farnworth to the Roosters

32:17 — Nathan Cleary: Penrith or PNG?

35:20 — Loyalty v money: Chuck on chasing premierships

41:49 — Nick Politis and Gus Gould to meet: a Matt Burton–Sam Walker swap?

45:27 — Hudson Young and AJ Brimson to PNG

45:56 — Melbourne mail: Craig Bellamy, Harry Grant and Cameron Munster

47:14 — Is Matt Burton the right marquee signing for Perth?

50:10 — Manly free agents and what’s going on at the Sea Eagles

52:29 — Wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you. ☎️ (02) 8001 6260 Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week. 👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Anthony “Choc” Watmough and Brandon Savage to unpack the Sam Walker contract saga and the fallout at the Sydney Roosters.

Could Walker land at the Bulldogs? The team debate his next move, a potential partnership with Lachlan Galvin, and how Matt Burton, the Perth Bears and Papua New Guinea could shape the NRL player market.

Plus, Zane Harrison’s Titans future, Cameron Munster’s contract situation, Choc’s stories about Des Hasler and Manly’s World Club Challenge trip, and a look ahead to Tonga v Samoa.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome, opening bloopers and Friday banter

1:53 — Choc on work, family and life after footy

7:54 — Sam Walker’s Roosters fallout and lessons from Manly

12:18 — Could the Bulldogs land Sam Walker?

14:56 — Matt Burton, Perth Bears and the halfback domino effect

22:29 — NRL 360 coverage and the Roosters’ media strategy

27:17 — Gus, Uncle Nick and the politics behind Walker’s next move

34:37 — Zane Harrison’s Titans deal and proving your worth

36:54 — Choc’s wild World Club Challenge memories

39:25 — PNG’s recruitment targets: Cleary, Walker and more

40:36 — Cameron Munster’s contract and Melbourne’s salary-cap history

44:39 — Des Hasler pranks and Manly’s training-ground stories

48:27 — Walker’s options: Bulldogs, PNG, Cowboys, Souths and rugby

54:06 — Tonga v Samoa, World Cup chat and final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Simon Woolford, Christian Nicolussi and Brendan Savage to unpack a massive week of NRL contract drama.

The team discuss Sam Walker’s shock Roosters contract breakdown, with Hoops challenging reports that he agreed to a deal before backflipping. Where could Walker land next, and could a swap involving Cowboys halfback Tom Dearden be an option?

Plus, Hudson Young’s uncertain Canberra future, the PNG Chiefs’ recruitment power, Hoops’ mail on Herbie Farnworth and the Roosters, Penrith’s contract decisions, and Melbourne’s coaching succession.

The boys also debate Australia’s World Cup selections, Ethan Strange’s Kangaroos debut, Manase Fainu’s potential return to rugby league, and the blockbuster clash between Tonga and Samoa.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

1:12 — Hudson Young’s Canberra contract shock

2:49 — Sam Walker bombshell: Hoops challenges the backflip reports

8:27 — Where could Walker land? Bulldogs, Souths, PNG and a Cowboys swap

15:52 — Did the Roosters’ opening offer sour negotiations?

19:33 — Hoops’ Herbie Farnworth mail and the Roosters’ recruitment strategy

24:57 — Could Melbourne make a play for Walker?

27:18 — Salary cap growth and Penrith’s contract balancing act

32:58 — Could the Titans enter the Walker race?

35:01 — Craig Bellamy’s future and Melbourne’s succession plan

38:18 — Hudson Young, the Raiders’ withdrawn offer and PNG interest

49:27 — Kangaroos selections: Latrell Mitchell, James Tedesco and the halves

52:29 — Ethan Strange’s journey from Thailand to a Test debut

54:34 — Manase Fainu and a potential return to rugby league

58:24 — Tonga v Samoa: ticket demand, predictions and Australia’s World Cup threats

1:03:58 — Final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Sean O’Sullivan, Darcie McDonald to unpack the biggest rugby league talking points.

The team discuss Fiji’s brave challenge against Australia, Kurt Donoghoe’s outstanding performance, and the Kangaroos’ selection headaches. Should James Tedesco or Reece Walsh wear the No.1, and who gets the nod at halfback — Tom Dearden or Sam Walker?

Plus, World Cup blowouts, Tonga’s blockbuster clash with Samoa, Matt Burton’s future at Canterbury, and the November 1 player market. Could Harry Grant transform the Titans, and what lies ahead for Melbourne’s biggest stars?

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

1:59 — Fiji push Australia and Kurt Donoghoe shines

6:12 — Sean O’Sullivan on Donoghoe’s remarkable rise

10:20 — Tedesco or Walsh? Australia’s fullback dilemma

12:05 — Dearden or Walker? Picking the Kangaroos’ halfback

17:53 — World Cup blowouts and growing the international game

25:47 — Tonga v Samoa: a blockbuster awaits

28:23 — Samoa’s jersey giveaways and PNG fans’ incredible journey

29:40 — Matt Burton’s future: Bulldogs, playing position and rival interest

37:54 — November 1: big names and a changing player market

39:26 — Could Harry Grant transform the Titans?

41:09 — Melbourne’s future: Bellamy, Munster and player uncertainty

45:45 — Why Hooper would tell Harry Grant to name his price

48:02 — Zane Harrison’s future on the Gold Coast

51:58 — Does the NRL’s contract system need to change?

56:05 — Final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

Choc Fires Up Over PNG’s NRL Advantage, Bradman Best’s Future & Tigers Rebuild | RLIEP185

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Anthony “Choc” Watmough and Brandon Savage to unpack the biggest NRL off-season talking points.

The team discuss Bradman Best’s future at Newcastle, the November 1 player market and the PNG Chiefs’ recruitment advantage — with Choc firing up over tax-free deals, third-party agreements and what it all means for the Perth Bears.

Plus, Mal Meninga’s coaching tensions, Cooper Bai’s future, Wayde Egan’s Warriors extension and the Wests Tigers’ rebuild. Can Benji Marshall turn things around?

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

2:49 — International footy preview and Tonga’s big omission

3:26 — Bradman Best’s future: Newcastle or Parramatta?

8:01 — Contract talk in representative camps: has the game changed?

9:56 — Super League stories and rugby league’s contract wars

16:10 — Choc fires up over PNG’s recruitment advantage

22:54 — Perth Bears: Mal Meninga, coaching tensions and recruitment

30:18 — Choc’s Manly exit and the politics of rugby league

35:16 — Cooper Bai’s future and PNG’s third-party deals

42:29 — Wayde Egan’s Warriors extension and Kiwis eligibility

46:18 — Tigers secure Samuela Fainu: a key piece of the rebuild

48:15 — Second chances and the pathway back to the NRL

50:06 — Tigers recruitment and expectations for next season

52:51 — Benji Marshall’s coaching, player managers and burying the hatchet

59:22 — Final wrap-up and weekend plans

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Craig Gower and Christian Nicolussi to unpack the biggest rugby league talking points.

The team discuss the latest mail linking AJ Brimson to the PNG Chiefs, whether the Perth Bears have the roster to compete, and the debate over PNG’s tax-free recruitment advantage.

Plus, Sam Walker’s contract standoff with the Roosters, Australia’s World Cup win over New Zealand, Kalyn Ponga’s injury, David Fifita’s resurgence under Wayne Bennett, Josh Addo-Carr’s uncertain Parramatta future and Eli Katoa’s recovery.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

1:37 — PNG Chiefs recruitment and AJ Brimson transfer mail

5:14 — Can the Perth Bears compete? Roster concerns and expansion debate

15:10 — PNG’s tax-free advantage, player lifestyle and recruitment challenges

20:55 — PNG’s halfback hunt: Cleary, Walker

23:53 — Sam Walker’s Roosters deadline and contract standoff

35:25 — World Cup reaction: Australia overcome New Zealand

36:43 — Kalyn Ponga’s injury and the Kiwis’ chances

41:36 — Can Tonga and Samoa challenge Australia?

43:22 — David Fifita’s resurgence and Kangaroos opportunity

47:13 — PNG Chiefs logo, jersey reveal and naming dispute

50:50 — Josh Addo-Carr’s uncertain Parramatta future

54:32 — Is Jack Bostock the best winger in the game?

55:03 — Eli Katoa’s recovery and potential return

59:39 — Tonga team news and final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Simon Woolford and Sean O’Sullivan to unpack a blockbuster opening weekend of the Rugby League World Cup.

The team discuss Tonga’s win over England, Isaiya Katoa’s composure, Jack Bostock’s sensational Australian debut and the Kangaroos’ epic clash with New Zealand.

Plus, Kalyn Ponga’s injury, Reece Walsh versus James Tedesco, Australia’s halves selection, Samoa’s attacking firepower and the player market heating up ahead of November 1 — including Hudson Young, Xavier Willison and Herbie Farnworth.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome, Simon’s wedding weekend and Sean’s watch-along debut

2:25 — Tonga beat England: defensive grit and controversial calls

6:24 — Isaiya Katoa’s masterclass and Tonga’s forward power

8:46 — World Cup crowds, TV ratings and representative pride

12:05 — Offseason training, fat clubs and old-school Raiders stories

19:08 — Tonga’s injury setbacks and Siua Wong’s dummy-half effort

21:16 — Robert Toia’s rise and Herbie Farnworth’s future

25:39 — Samoa’s attacking clinic and the Tonga showdown

27:42 — Phoenix Crossland, Mitch Moses and Australia’s halves options

30:34 — Jack Bostock’s stunning Kangaroos debut

32:00 — Kalyn Ponga’s injury and the Kiwis’ World Cup hopes

34:35 — Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and New Zealand’s attacking adjustments

37:00 — Reece Walsh versus James Tedesco: who owns the No.1 jersey?

41:19 — November 1 approaches: Hudson Young and PNG’s recruitment push

44:12 — Xavier Willison’s contract situation and Brisbane’s retention battle

46:38 — Herbie Farnworth and the decisions facing off-contract stars

49:05 — Final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Anthony Watmough and Brendan Savage to unpack Australia’s thrilling Rugby League World Cup win over New Zealand.

The team discuss Jack Bostock’s incredible Kangaroos debut, the selection calls facing Kevin Walters, and whether Australia’s forward pack needs reshuffling for the next Test.

Plus, Choc relives the 2008 World Cup final, the debate around responding to the haka, Isaah Yeo’s remarkable injury battle, Bostock’s future, and World Cup previews including England v Tonga.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

1:24 — Australia v New Zealand: instant Test-match classic

6:06 — Jack Bostock’s remarkable Kangaroos debut

7:45 — Kangaroos selection calls and players short of match fitness

15:40 — Australia’s halves, Munster and the game’s key moments

19:05 — Choc relives the 2008 World Cup final

21:16 — The haka debate and Australia’s potential war cry

29:05 — Jack Bostock’s future and the player market

32:48 — Isaah Yeo’s ruptured pec and playing through injury

36:50 — How Australia can improve: pack balance and team changes

41:30 — Sam Walker, Tom Dearden and the next halves pairing

46:25 — World Cup fixtures: Samoa, PNG, Lebanon, England and Tonga

49:40 — Final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Sean O’Sullivan and Brandon Savage to preview the opening weekend of the Rugby League World Cup.

The team unpack Australia v New Zealand, including the Kiwis’ imposing forward pack, Kalyn Ponga’s threat, Australia’s selection calls and who can make the difference.

Plus, the latest on Jack Bostock, Cody Walker, Latrell Mitchell and Nathan Cleary, Peter O’Sullivan’s move to Brisbane, Newcastle’s roster squeeze, and previews of Samoa v France, PNG v Lebanon, England v Tonga and Fiji v Cook Islands.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

2:20 — Jack Bostock: Dragons interest, Test debut and rise at the Dolphins

9:06 — Cody Walker’s Souths future and Latrell Mitchell’s contract situation

17:38 — Nathan Cleary puts contract talks on hold

22:00 — Peter O’Sullivan to Brisbane, Justin Holbrook’s Newcastle extension and the Knights’ halves puzzle

33:28 — Australia v New Zealand preview: can the Kangaroos stop the Kiwis?

45:04 — Samoa v France preview

51:28 — Papua New Guinea v Lebanon preview

54:48 — England v Tonga preview

1:03:42 — Fiji v Cook Islands preview

1:09:24 — Final wrap and Australia v New Zealand watch-along

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Simon Woolford and Christian Nicolussi to unpack the biggest rugby league stories as the World Cup gets underway.

The team debate the Kangaroos’ fullback call between Reece Walsh and James Tedesco, preview Australia v New Zealand, and assess the representative squads.

Plus, Spencer Leniu’s move to Parramatta, Junior Paulo’s future, the looming November 1 player market, Hudson Young’s PNG links, Sam Walker’s Roosters deal, Jason Ryles’ contract clause and the issues facing Perth’s NRL entry.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

1:55 — Reece Walsh v James Tedesco: who should be Kangaroos fullback?

4:00 — Kangaroos team news, halves and squad selections

9:36 — Bradman Best, Latrell Mitchell and Australia’s centres

14:48 — Australia v New Zealand preview and World Cup predictions

17:56 — Samoa, PNG and the rest of the World Cup weekend

18:53 — Parramatta sign Spencer Leniu

21:46 — Junior Paulo’s future, Samoa and Perth’s interest

23:36 — Can Spencer Leniu become a starting front-rower?

27:18 — November 1 market: why this year could be different

29:54 — Hudson Young, Canberra’s offer and PNG links

35:14 — Sam Walker’s Roosters future and contract value

37:57 — Roosters roster changes and recruitment plans

43:55 — Jason Ryles’ Parramatta contract clause

46:41 — Eels rebuild, pathways and expectations for 2026

53:00 — Perth’s CEO fallout and Mal Meninga’s challenge

58:56 — Wrap-up and upcoming World Cup coverage

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Craig Gower and Brandon Savage to review the 2026 NRL Grand Final, as the Sydney Roosters defeat the Newcastle Knights 19–18.

The team breaks down Newcastle’s remarkable finals run, the Roosters’ clinical performance, Daly Cherry-Evans’ key moments, James Tedesco’s legacy and the impact of Spencer Leniu.

Plus, the Knights’ future, Roosters recruitment and academy success, Kangaroos selection discussion, and the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome and Roosters crowned 2026 premiers

1:40 — Newcastle’s brave grand final performance

4:00 — Key moments: Dom Young, Ponga and Newcastle’s tries

6:20 — Daly Cherry-Evans’ field goal and game management

8:00 — Roosters’ possession, kick chase and clinical edge

10:00 — Tedesco, Mark Nawaqanitawase and the Roosters’ big names

12:00 — Spencer Leniu’s impact off the bench

13:40 — Roosters’ forward pack and physicality

15:05 — Newcastle’s future and Justin Holbrook’s impact

18:10 — Thomas Cant at dummy-half and Newcastle’s desperation

22:30 — Roosters recruitment, academy and next generation

25:30 — James Tedesco’s place among the great Roosters fullbacks

28:00 — Kangaroos squad discussion and selection calls

29:30 — Pacific Championship concerns and player availability

32:00 — Tedesco, Edwards and the fullback debate

35:55 — Rugby League Insider’s World Cup coverage

36:55 — Final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Anthony Watmough and Brandon Savage for a huge grand final week edition of Rugby League Insider.

The team break down Newcastle’s extraordinary finals run and whether they can upset the star-studded Roosters to complete one of rugby league’s great fairytales.

Plus, the Kangaroos World Cup squad, key grand final match-ups, Connor Watson’s fitness, Phoenix Crossland’s tackle on Nathan Cleary and the hip-drop debate, player welfare, Herbie Farnworth’s Roosters link, Raiders contract news, and Ivan Cleary’s hopes of keeping Nathan at Penrith.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

2:25 — Kangaroos World Cup squad: Turbo, Teddy, Walsh and the big selection calls

15:53 — Can Newcastle upset the Roosters in the grand final?

23:24 — Key match-ups: Gagai and Dom Young target the Roosters’ edges

26:10 — Newcastle’s young halves and the grand final game plan

29:02 — Connor Watson’s fitness and Roosters team selection

32:00 — Concussion protocols and the independent doctor call

33:11 — Phoenix Crossland, Nathan Cleary and the hip-drop tackle debate

43:00 — Player welfare, fatigue, interchanges and the NRL’s balancing act

47:31 — Herbie Farnworth’s Roosters sponsor post and contract speculation

52:53 — Raiders extend Ethan Sanders; Hudson Young’s future

57:35 — Ivan Cleary wants Nathan to remain at Penrith

58:47 — Grand final wrap-up and FanaticsTV watch-party details

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Buzz Rothfield and Darcie McDonald for a huge grand final week edition of Rugby League Insider.

The team unpack the Dally M Awards, calls for greater voting transparency, and the incredible Newcastle Knights run to the grand final. Can the Knights complete one of rugby league’s greatest fairytales, or will Trent Robinson’s star-studded Roosters claim the premiership?

Plus, the Roosters’ academy and recruitment power, Herbie Farnworth’s future, Jason Ryles’ Eels extension, Cody Walker and Latrell Mitchell at South Sydney, Matt Burton, Bradman Best and grand final predictions.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

2:15 — Dally M Awards: voting transparency and the big calls

8:35 — Newcastle’s remarkable grand final run

10:00 — Dally M stories and Mark Nawaqanitawase

15:00 — Old-school Rothmans and Dally M after-party yarns

22:30 — Lachlan Galvin, Wests Tigers and Gus Gould

26:15 — Newcastle’s finals road and why they believe

27:55 — Roosters v Knights grand final preview

35:10 — Trent Robinson, Justin Holbrook and the coaching battle

37:30 — Grand final predictions: Roosters or Newcastle?

39:30 — Nick Politis, the Roosters academy and club culture

46:20 — Herbie Farnworth and the Roosters’ recruitment power

50:00 — Jason Ryles and Parramatta’s extension talks

52:30 — Cody Walker, Latrell Mitchell and South Sydney’s future

57:30 — Matt Burton, Bradman Best and player movement

60:00 — Grand final plans and final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Christian Nicolussi and Brandon Savage for a full NRL Grand Final week breakdown.

The team unpack Phoenix Crossland’s suspension after the tackle that injured Nathan Cleary, the fallout for Newcastle, and why the Knights’ remarkable run has captured the rugby league world.

Plus, Connor Watson’s race to be cleared, the Roosters’ key selection calls, Newcastle’s defensive heroes, Adam Gee’s grand final appointment, Dally M predictions, and the coaching cases for Justin Holbrook, Andrew Webster and more.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

5:49 — Phoenix Crossland’s ban and Nathan Cleary injury fallout

8:00 — Crossland’s response and Newcastle’s grand final preparations

12:00 — Judiciary stories and grand final precedents

24:30 — Connor Watson’s concussion call and Roosters selection dilemma

32:23 — Newcastle fever: the city’s grand final buzz

36:00 — Knights’ defensive heroics and why they can challenge the Roosters

41:14 — Roosters team preview: Reece Robson, depth and key match-ups

48:35 — Adam Gee appointed grand final referee

53:20 — Dally M predictions: can Nathan Cleary win from hospital?

58:42 — Coach of the Year debate: Holbrook, Webster, Bennett and Ivan Cleary

64:20 — Captain of the Year: Kalyn Ponga’s Newcastle transformation

67:18 — Final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: http://fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Simon Woolford and Brendan Savage to unpack the biggest NRL talking points.

The team discuss Newcastle’s remarkable run from wooden spoon to the grand final, Phoenix Crossland’s tackle on Nathan Cleary, and the stories shaping grand final week in rugby league.

Plus, Justin Holbrook’s coaching impact, the Roosters’ dangerous attack, Daly Cherry-Evans’ influence, team selection calls, and predictions for the weekend’s biggest match.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

1:58 — Newcastle’s incredible grand final run

5:46 — Phoenix Crossland tackle, Nathan Cleary injury and hip-drop debate

17:08 — Justin Holbrook’s impact and Newcastle’s belief

28:40 — Roosters preview: Mark Nawaqanitawase, forward pack and key match-ups

35:35 — Roosters’ selection dilemmas: Connor Watson and Spencer Leniu

40:15 — Daly Cherry-Evans, Sam Walker and the grand final records on the line

43:17 — Viewer questions: Cleary, Crossland and Penrith’s finals exit

54:22 — Ivan Cleary’s selection calls and final wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Darcie McDonald and Anthony Watmough to unpack one of the wildest preliminary-final weekends in recent memory.

The team breaks down Newcastle’s remarkable 12-man win over Penrith, including Phoenix Crossland’s send-off, Nathan Cleary’s injury and the Panthers’ costly selection calls. They then look ahead to a blockbuster Grand Final between the fairytale Knights and the star-studded Sydney Roosters.

Plus, Sandon Smith’s breakout performance, Newcastle’s game plan to expose the Roosters, Justin Holbrook’s inside knowledge, DCE’s premiership chance, and why the Hunter region is fully behind the Knights.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Newcastle’s stunning 12-man win over Penrith

1:54 — Where the Knights’ comeback ranks among great finals wins

3:20 — How Newcastle exposed Penrith’s edge defence

5:48 — The Knights’ fairytale run and the Newcastle fan wave

9:08 — Phoenix Crossland’s send-off and Nathan Cleary’s injury

18:58 — Did Penrith get their selection calls wrong?

20:27 — Panthers’ edge defence, leadership and late-game errors

23:06 — Sandon Smith’s quick tap and the defining moments

26:00 — Newcastle’s resilience and belief heading into the Grand Final

30:00 — How the Knights can target the Roosters’ defence

31:12 — Roosters v Dolphins and Justin Holbrook’s inside knowledge

33:52 — Can Newcastle win it after last year’s wooden spoon?

36:42 — Grand Final odds, pressure and the Roosters’ strike power

41:58 — Why the Knights have nothing to lose

43:10 — Phoenix Crossland referred straight to the judiciary

46:10 — Does DCE deserve to finish with another premiership?

48:05 — Final Grand Final predictions and wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

One of the great finals performances — Newcastle played 44 minutes with 12 men after Phoenix Crossland's send-off and Nathan Cleary's broken leg, and somehow beat the Premiership-favourite Penrith Panthers 22-14 to book a grand final berth. Hoops, Anthony Watmough and John Sutton break down Kalyn Ponga's captain's performance, the small battles Newcastle won everywhere on the field, and where it all went wrong for Ivan Cleary's Panthers. Plus, a preview of next week's decider against the Roosters.

⸻

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Newcastle's Incredible 12-Man Miracle

00:55 - Choc & Sutto React To History

01:58 - Comparing This To Rugby League's Bravest Performances

03:10 - How The Knights Out-Panthered The Panthers

04:12 - Kalyn Ponga's Captain's Performance

05:38 - Cleary's Injury Twist

07:21 - Warren's Bold Grand Final Prediction

09:13 - Shades Of '97 And 2001

12:24 - Newcastle's Forward Pack: The Unsung Heroes

13:12 - Gagai's Inspirational Farewell-Season Form

14:02 - Were Penrith Ever The Deserved Favourites?

16:24 - Ad Break

16:54 - How Much Does This Win Take Out Of Them?

20:55 - Cleary's Costly Coaching Calls Under Scrutiny

24:35 - Panthers' Bench Carnage Explained

27:18 - Sam Smith's Pivotal Quick Tap

28:09 - Penrith's Injury Toll: Brown, Suli, Mooney

29:04 - Average Joes vs The Purple Cobras

30:04 - How Newcastle Can Trouble The Roosters

33:21 - Sutton's Grand Final Tip

35:21 - Outro: Average Joes All The Way

⸻

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

⸻

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

Description:

Live from the Hyde Park House pub — the Sydney Roosters have booked their first grand final berth since 2019, outclassing the Dolphins 36-20 at Suncorp Stadium. Simon Woolford and Sean O'Sullivan break down Marky Mark's stunning 313m masterclass, the controversial bunker call that upheld a Dolphins try, and the fresh headache of Connor Watson's grand final-ending HIA. Plus, reaction to the Dolphins' season ending short, breaking news on George Williams' move to the Dragons, and a preview of Sunday's Panthers-Knights blockbuster.

⸻

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Roosters Into The Grand Final: Cock-A-Doodle-Doo!

01:03 - Simon Woolford's Instant Reaction

02:05 - Sean O'Sullivan Breaks Down The Result

03:24 - DCE & Sam Walker's Statement Combination

06:48 - Izzy Katoa's Ugly Head-Slam Tackle

09:14 - Victor Radley's Lucky Judiciary History

09:58 - Bunker Chaos: Osako's Try Controversy

14:10 - Marky Mark's Man-Of-The-Match Masterclass

16:56 - The Numbers: Marky Mark's 313m Game

19:07 - What This Grand Final Means For Robbo & The Roosters

20:56 - Reece Robson's Rise Under Robinson

22:21 - Breaking: Connor Watson OUT Of The Grand Final

23:09 - Ad Break

24:08 - Connor Watson HIA Category Bombshell Explained

24:46 - Dolphins' Gutsy Season Ends Short

27:16 - Is This The Dolphins' Ceiling Or Just The Start?

30:09 - Breaking: George Williams Set For Dragons Move

30:34 - Previewing Panthers v Knights

33:19 - Outro & Grand Final Preview

⸻

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

⸻

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.

🏉 Welcome to The Rugby League Insider Podcast

Brought to you by FanaticsTV.

James Hooper is joined by Christian Nicolussi and Brandon Savage to unpack the biggest NRL talking points.

The team discuss Penrith’s moves to retain Nathan Cleary, Isaah Yeo, Liam Martin and Moses Leota — plus the Panthers’ secretive finals preparations.

Also on the agenda: Raiders contract news, Latrell Mitchell’s South Sydney future, Harry Grant’s Melbourne contract situation, Victor Radley’s career-best season, and a preview of Dolphins v Roosters.

⏱️ TIMESTAMPS

0:00 — Welcome to Rugby League Insider

2:24 — Raiders news: Tom Starling, Matt Nicholson and the hooker puzzle

5:03 — Christian Wolff’s boxing stories and the contract market heats up

7:38 — Raiders roster update and Matt Nicholson’s extension

10:30 — Penrith’s secret training setup and Nathan Cleary update

17:36 — Panthers’ big four: Cleary, Yeo, Martin and Leota contract talks

22:50 — Latrell Mitchell’s South Sydney future and Perth links

37:20 — Harry Grant’s Melbourne Storm future

45:20 — Victor Radley’s fitness overhaul and Roosters future

49:28 — Dolphins v Roosters preview, tips and finals wrap-up

📞 INSIDER HOTLINE

Got a question, opinion or hot take? We’d love to hear from you.

☎️ (02) 8001 6260

Leave us a voicemail and you could feature on an upcoming episode.

🎧 Listen on Spotify: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: Rugby League Insider with James Hooper

🔥 FANATICS CLUBHOUSE

Join the Fanatics Clubhouse for exclusive sports content, live show invites, member-only discounts, sports tours, giveaways and bar shout perks throughout the year.

No spam — just quality updates delivered straight to your inbox twice a week.

👉 Join now: fanatics.tv

Head to www.fanatics.tv for more insights & banter.

Hosted on Acast. See https://acast.com/privacy for more information.