In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan review the historic World Club Challenge, where Hull Kingston Rovers defeated the Brisbane Broncos.

Martyn shares his thoughts on the atmosphere at the ground, the officiating and how this World Club Challenge compares to past editions. They also discuss the Brisbane Broncos' performance once and whether they were truly up for this challenge.

After that, they debate whether the event got enough media coverage in the UK and what this win does for Willie Peters’ coaching resume, with many now seeing him as a front-runner for the England head coach role.

They break down the new State of Origin eligibility rules in Australia and preview the upcoming Round two Super League match-ups, setting the stage for another thrilling weekend of Rugby League.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan preview Round One of the Super League season, breaking down the key match-ups and early storylines as the campaign gets underway.

The conversation then turns to the RFL’s strategic review, with Martyn and Jake analysing what it could mean for the future direction of the game. They also discuss speculation around which Super League coach could eventually succeed Craig Bellamy at the Melbourne Storm, should the legendary NRL coach step aside.

Off the field, the episode covers major developments across the sport, including the Halifax Panthers facing a winding-up order, Owen Trout signing with the Cronulla Sharks, and the shock news that has sent ripples through Rugby League — Payne Haas will leave the Brisbane Broncos to join the South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2027.

🔑 Topics covered:

• Super League Round One preview
• RFL strategic review explained
• Who could replace Craig Bellamy at Melbourne Storm?
• Halifax Panthers winding-up order
• Owen Trout signs with Cronulla Sharks
• Payne Haas to South Sydney Rabbitohs in 2027

👉 Subscribe for weekly Super League analysis, Rugby League news, NRL updates and expert insight from League Express.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan are joined by BBC pundit and former Super League coach John Kear for a full 2026 Rugby League predictions special.

The trio deliver their bold calls for the 2026 season, debating which club will exceed expectations, which side could struggle or disappoint, and which player is primed for a breakout season. They also discuss the future of the England head coach role, offering insight into who could take charge next.

Attention then turns to silverware, with predictions on who will win the Challenge Cup, the Super League Grand Final, the NRL Grand Final, and the World Club Challenge, making this a must-listen episode for Rugby League fans looking ahead to the biggest year yet.

🔑 Topics covered:

• 2026 Super League season preview
• Which team will exceed expectations?
• Which club could disappoint?
• Breakout player predictions
• Who will be the next England head coach?
• Challenge Cup winner predictions
• Super League Grand Final winner
• NRL Grand Final winner
• World Club Challenge predictions

👉 Subscribe for weekly Rugby League analysis, Super League & NRL coverage, exclusive interviews and expert predictions from League Express.