5 Live Rugby League

Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown are joined by former Hull FC Captain Gareth Ellis and former Scotland Head Coach Steve McCormack to discuss their current roles with Rugby League Cares, an organisation which provides off-field support and advice for players, coaches and officials within the sport. They talk about how the approach to player-welfare has developed over the last decade, and what they learnt on a recent fact-finding trip to Australia. There are also reflections on the Challenge Cup Quarter-finals as four men’s and four women’s teams moved a step closer to the Wembley finals. Kevin also gives his thoughts on an eventful few days at Hull FC, who have parted company with Head Coach Tony Smith and appointed former Leeds Half-back Richie Myler as their new Director of Rugby.

Ahead of the quarter-finals of the Challenge Cup, Hull Kingston Rovers head coach Willie Peters joins Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown to relate his rugby league journey from Sydney to Humberside via Gateshead and Wigan. He talks about the culture he’s trying to create in East Hull, the progress being made on and off the field, the growth of players like Mikey Lewis and why his year playing at the Warriors alongside the likes of Andy Farrell was the best of his career.

Tanya Arnold talks to Ryan Brierley, the Salford Red Devils Full Back who played in his 300th professional game over Easter. He talks about the highs and lows of a career which has seen him represent Leigh, Huddersfield, Toronto, Hull KR, Salford and Scotland. Ryan reveals the importance of the relationships he has built up during his time in the game, how he suffered from imposter syndrome for a long time in his career, and a difficult end to his time in Toronto. He also discusses his involvement in the drive to ensure players are better represented in the governance of Rugby League and his role as an agent in women’s football.

Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown are joined from Australia by the Brisbane Broncos Assistant Coach Lee Briers to talk about life in the NRL. The former Warrington and Wales Half-back has been coaching on the other side of world for the last 18 months and helped steer the Broncos to the Grand Final there in 2023. He describes what it’s like to be working with some of the best players in the world, reveals his coaching philosophies and talks about his ambitions to be a Head Coach either in Australia, or back home in Super League. There are also reflections on the Broncos visit to Las Vegas for the opening round of NRL fixtures, and he talks about his time working with Shaun Wane and the England team.

Super League’s leading try-scorer Ash Handley joins Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown to talk about his flying start to the 2024 campaign and the secrets to his success so far this season. The Leeds Rhinos winger has scored seven tries in the opening five rounds of the competition and reveals how he was inspired by Basketball legend Michael Jordan to visualize key moments in games and develop new off-field habits to help improve his performance. He talks about his hopes for the rest of the season, and the impact made by Leeds’ new signings this year.

Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown are joined by Catalans Dragons half-back Jordan Abdull to discuss life as a Rugby League player in the South of France and how he is adapting to his new surroundings. Considered to be one of the finest play-makers in the competition, Abdull was surprisingly allowed to leave Hull KR during the winter and is spending the 2024 season on loan with the Dragons. They also discuss the latest Super League stories and what happened in Vegas on the opening night of the Australian NRL season.

Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown are joined by the RFL’s Director of Operations Robert Hicks to discuss the controversial sending-off of Hull FC’s Fa’amanu Brown and the governing body’s subsequent decision to amend the rules of the game. As the sport continues it’s drive to protect players from brain injuries they debate the issues that have arisen in the opening two weeks of the season. There are also reflections on Wigan’s epic World Club Challenge win against Penrith Panthers at the DW Stadium.

Tanya Arnold and Kevin Brown are joined by some special guests to preview the World Club Challenge match between the Super League Champions Wigan Warriors and the best team from Australia, the Penrith Panthers. The winners will earn the right to be called World Club Champions. Wigan Head Coach Matt Peet offers an insight into their preparations for the match and talks about his pride in representing the British game in the fixture. Penrith co-captain Isaah Yeo joins Tanya and Kevin to talk about his team’s time in the UK, and how the Panthers have established themselves as the best team in Australia.

Ahead of the new Super League season the podcast returns with Tanya Arnold at the official launch event to preview the upcoming campaign with some of the key personalities involved. Former dual-code international Sam Burgess is back in the UK as the new head coach of Warrington Wolves, and London Broncos return to the top tier following their promotion from the Championship. Representatives from all 12 clubs discuss their hopes and ambitions for the season, including Matt Peet, the head coach of defending champions Wigan Warriors, who face Australian NRL champions Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge in the second week of the season.

Dave Woods and ex-England half-back Kevin Brown are joined by former referee James Child who retired in December after more than a decade of officiating at the top level. They discuss the abuse referees receive, whether they’re swayed by the crowd and how they react when they realise they’ve made a wrong decision. Child also came out as gay while still refereeing and he talks how difficult it was and is for others within sport in general to make that very public decision.

Warrington Wolves’ Chief Executive, Karl Fitzpatrick, joins Dave Woods and former England half-back Kevin Brown to discuss IMG’s proposals to change the game, grading each professional club to determine who will be in Super League come 2025. Plus, what’s behind Warrington’s great start to the year and should there be genuine concern amongst the fans of a couple of clubs already?

Dave Woods is joined by former England half-back Kevin Brown and Huddersfield Giants Head of Youth, Andy Kelly, to discuss whether rugby league’s reserve team structure is fit for purpose and why it should be a priority for IMG’s soon to be released new grading criteria. Plus, there’s reaction to the surprise departure of Lee Radford from Castleford Tigers; can the Giants be amongst the silverware this season under ‘rugby league nerd’ Ian Watson; and the joys of cold water swimming!

Following the re-appointment of Shaun Wane as head coach of the men’s national team, Dave Woods is joined by ex-England coach John Kear and Kevin Brown, who played in the 2017 World Cup Final, to discuss the state of international rugby league. Plus, what a start to the season the two Hull clubs have made, and is this the most open race for promotion from the Championship in recent years?

Tanya Arnold is joined one more time by former England international Jon Wilkin and Australian journalist Steve Mascord, while the BBC’s rugby league correspondent Dave Woods also joins the pod.

They discuss all three finals as Australia’s men and women triumph, while England defeated France on Friday to win the wheelchair competition. Talking of which, wheelchair World Cup winner Seb Bechara drops by with a bottle of champagne.

Oh, and the team discuss the Australian love of haircuts and coffee.

Time codes 1 – The team discuss the men’s final. 10 – Aussie coach Mal Meninga interviewed. 12 – England wheelchair winner Seb Bechara drops by with some champagne. 25 – The team discuss the women’s final. 28 - Final thoughts from the team.

Tanya Arnold is joined once again by former England international Jon Wilkin and Australian journalist Steve Mascord for their weekly take on all things Rugby League World Cup. Lee Radford is part of the Samoan coaching staff and he explains how England’s semi-final opponents have been getting better and better. England wheelchair player Seb Bechara discusses playing the trumpet and what exactly constitutes good bread. And Jillaroos co-skipper Sammy Bremner joins the pod to talk through a few language issues and returning to the game after having a baby. Oh – and don’t forget to find out what Steve has lost this week.

TIMECODES

6.00 - Lee Radford joins the team to discuss the England men's team's upcoming semi-final against Samoa. The Castleford Tigers head coach is currently working as an assistant coach for Samoa, and hoping to plot the downfall of his home nation.

16.25 England wheelchair star Seb Bechara discusses their great start to the event, and life as a professional trumpet player in the South of France.

32.14 Australian Jillaroos co-captain Sammy Bremner makes some early observations about life in the UK and how she's hoping her World Cup performances will be an inspiration to others.

Tanya Arnold is once again joined by former England international Jon Wilkin and Australian journalist Steve Mascord to discuss the World Cup, food and what they have lost over the past week.

They are joined by England’s Tommy Makinson to find out who he looks like and who he is currently rooming with.

Ahead of the women’s tournament starting PNG’s Elise Albert and Canada’s Gabby Hindley open up on their journeys to the World Cup. And there is also time for England’s Jack Brown to explain what makes the wheelchair game so special.

Timecodes: 05.00 England’s Tommy Makinson joins the team to talk about their success in the men's tournament so far, and the teams plans for a Haloween-themed training session

17.48 Papua New Guinea Orchids captain Elsie Albert talks about changing perceptions at home as she prepares to lead her country in the Women's World Cup tournament which starts this week.

25.42 Gabby Hindley, who captains the Canada Ravens, talks us through her off-field CV which includes work as a biologist and a wildfire fighter, and explains the difference between urgency and panic.

34.48 England’s Jack Brown joins the programme to preview the wheelchair tournament - and also tells us how to prepare the perfect recipe for Yorkshire Puddings.

Jamaica in the Rugby League World Cup? Who knew! Well, Nesta McGregor travelled to Leeds to watch them train and spoke to the key people around the team. Jamaican journalist and team media manager Simon Preston explains how it all started while head coach Romeo Monteith discusses what it means for the team to be over here in England competing at the RLWC. Alex Young – the brother of England winger Dom – explains why he is playing for Jamaica and Chevaughn Bailey – who plays club rugby back in Jamaica – explains the emotions of playing for his country and the reaction back home from the pupils that he teaches.

Timecodes…. 2 mins – Jamaican journalist Simon Preston on the evolution of the team. 6 mins – head coach Romeo Monteith on the growth of the sport. 14 mins - Chevaughn Bailey on his pride at playing in Jamaica’s World Cup opener. 19 mins – Alex Young on his decision to play for Jamaica.

On this week’s podcast, Dave Woods meets members of England’s World Cup squad at their training base in Wigan. Old hands Ryan Hall and Tommy Makinson join newer faces Matty Lees, Marc Sneyd, Andy Ackers and the ‘Australian Yorkshireman’ Victor Radley to look ahead to the tournament. They discuss the pride they felt when Shaun Wane called to inform them they were in the squad and their excitement as they look ahead to the potentially pivotal clash against a very impressive Samoan side which kicks things off on Saturday 15th October.

Timecodes: 01:00 Journalist Steve Mascord and former Wigan scribe Phil Wilkinson discuss England’s chances. 05:50 Phil says he’s excited to see Shaun Wane in charge of an international team. 07:10 St Helens duo Tommy Makinson and Matty Lees say they’ve enjoyed their Grand Final success, but now they’re purely focused on England. 10:30 They discuss facing Samoa in their first game and potentially the chance to play a Samoan-filled Penrith Panthers in the World Club Challenge in 2023. 12:00 Record England try-scorer Ryan Hall says he’s really proud to be a part of another international squad. 14:30 He reflects on how close England were to winning the World Cup in 2017. 16:25 Salford’s Marc Sneyd and Andy Ackers admit they were both very surprised and emotional when they heard they’d been selected. 19:10 They discuss the very nervous speeches they both had to give in front of their new international team mates. 22:00 Victor Radley explains his decision to pledge his allegiance to England rather than Australia. 23:10 He talks about his Yorkshire roots and how his dad, a Sheffield Wednesday fan is looking forward to watching England play at Sheffield United’s Bramall Lane! 27:10 Finally, England team manager Colin Maskell reveals his role and how a 40-year friendship with Shaun Wane got him the job.

On this week’s podcast Dave Woods speaks to Sam Tomkins, the England Men’s captain, following the announcement that all 61 matches at this year’s World Cup will be broadcast live on the BBC. Plus, following IMG’s presentation to the clubs and the media of their ‘reimagining rugby league’ strategy, we hear from Matt Dwyer vice-president of sports management at IMG, the chairman of the RFL Simon Johnson and journalist Steve Mascord on the proposals to change the game from next season and beyond.

On this week’s podcast Dave Woods is joined by a legend of both the English and Australian game, Sam Burgess, who, following his retirement, is now a rugby league coach in Australia. He talks about his own upcoming Grand Final and his interest in coaching in Super League and with England. Sam reflects on the disappointment he suffered in both the 2013 and 2017 World Cups and looks ahead to England’s chances this time around. In Australia, he’s a huge star and he discusses the difficulties which have come with that and his legendary appearance on SAS: Who Dares Wins.

TIMECODES:

02:00 Sam is now coaching in Australia and has guided his team to a Grand Final in his first year. 06:30 He suggests he’d be really interested in taking up a coaching opportunity in Super League. 07:25 After a more than a decade down under, Sam hates the fact he’s now got something of an Aussie accent. 09:20 Sam talks about the challenge that England face in the World Cup, but feels they can be successful. 11:10 He reminisces about his two World Cup campaigns in 2013 and 2017. 18:00 Due to injury, retirement came early, so how has he reconciled that? 20:40 In Australia, Sam is a huge star, and he talks of the difficulties which come with that. 23:00 Sam took part in Australia’s version of SAS: Who Dares Wins and was the only contestant to escape. 27:00 However, reality TV is not something he wants take part in going forward. 31:30 Ahead of the World Cup, Sam is returning to the UK to go on a speaking tour with Jamie Peacock and Adrian Morley. 33:00 He says Morley was the trailblazer down under for him and others to follow. 36:45 He suggests the Australian public are excited about the World Cup and promos are all over TV. 39:00 Ahead of his own Grand Final he says he’s proud of his achievement over the last 12 months.

On this week’s podcast, Dave Woods is joined by Warrington prop-forward Kyle Amor and Neil Ormston, the organiser for the Rugby League Records Keepers’ Club, who’s partly behind a new website which details the records of all players and matches worldwide throughout the history of the game. Neil tests Kyle on his knowledge of his own career, before the panel discuss Leigh’s march to Super League, Warrington’s woes, the play-off picture and who are the contenders for Coach of the Year and Man of Steel.

On this week’s podcast, Dave Woods is joined by Wigan Warriors assistant coach Lee Briers and former dual-code international Iestyn Harris. They discuss Lee’s impending new role down under with the Brisbane Broncos, the fight for the top six and why relegation is an out-dated concept. Plus, the detail behind Wigan’s success and those names who have thrilled and excited us down the years.

03:00 Lee discusses his impending move to the NRL with Brisbane Broncos.

08:25 He talks about the disappointment of leaving Warrington and the excitement of joining Wigan this season.

13:40 Iestyn moved from English rugby league to Wales rugby union and says there’s a similarity with the intensity Lee will face in Australia.

15:20 The focus turns to Super League and the race for the title and the play-off places.

18:00 Both are very surprised by the season their former club Warrington have endured.

22:00 Toulouse are likely to be relegated, but Lee feels they should remain in Super League and that promotion and relegation is an out-dated concept.

26:55 Leeds are looking like they’ll make the play-offs, but are they Grand Final outsiders?

29:30 Salford are the entertainers this year, and the panel think they play the game the way it should be played.

33:00 Lee talks about the ‘detail’ behind Wigan’s approach on defence and attack and how the past is influencing the present.

39:10 The importance of detail is highlighted by famous tries scored by Jonathan Davies and Martin Offiah.

42:10 Lee and Iestyn talk of the players who’ve thrilled them down the years.

02:20 John Hughes, the director of partnerships and communities for the charity, Community Integrated Care, explains how learning disability rugby league came about and the impact its had.

06:50 We hear from Warrington’s Oliver Thomason who has become a star both of the sport and social media, having replicated Alan Shearer’s celebration at Magic Weekend.

08:00 And his brother Craig, explains his involvement in initially helping to set up Learning Disability Rugby League and how it’s changed Oliver’s life and that of many others.

17:00 Dave goes behind the scenes at Glenwood Care Home which houses those with learning disabilities who don’t or can’t play the game, but supports them by using rugby league themes.

19:10 England international Jodie Cunningham is on hand to help make soap. The players at last season’s Grand Final were gifted bars made by the residents at Glenwood.

21:10 Glenwood is based in Widnes and the facility is littered with image of Widnes Vikings RL team.

23:10 Dave is joined by members of the ‘Media Club’ at Community Integrated Care, who describe the roles they experienced within the media at the recent game between Wigan and Warrington.

27:25 Steve Roberts, Widnes Vikings’ general manager, explains how those with learning disabilities utilise the same facilities at the club’s stadium as those in the first team.

34:00 The podcast concludes with John Hughes detailing how more and more clubs are joining in and supporting the charity and the people it supports day after day.

On this week’s podcast, Dave Woods is joined by Widnes Vikings and Wales head coach John Kear and rugby league author Richard de la Riviere. Amongst the topics up for discussion are the latest twists and turns in Super League, the Championship’s Summer Bash and the quality of the players within. And there’s a trip down memory lane, picking out the prized moments from decade’s gone by.

TOPICS 01:30 The panel look back on last weekend’s dramatic results in Super League and what they might mean for the final few weeks ahead. 06:10 The race to avoid relegation has turned on it’s head, and John Kear says the jeopardy must stay in the sport. 10:00 A reflection on the Summer Bash, which took place for the first time at Leeds’ Headingley Stadium. 14:00 The importance of capitalising on the current success of women’s sport. 16:45 The controversy over the new blue and white England shirt released this week ahead of the World Cup. 22:40 The talk turns to the history of the game and some of the iconic moments in rugby league. 26:05 One of those is the famous Rorke’s Drift test match. 29:20 Nominations are suggested for new names to be inducted in to the rugby league ‘Hall of Fame’. 33:00 Why aren’t Super League clubs tapping in to the quality of players who ply their trade in the Championship? 35:30 When was the first four-point try scored? 37:30 John identifies the 1969 Challenge Cup Final as his greatest moment in the history of the sport. 39:10 Richard counters with his memories of his favourite Workington team of the mid-nineties.

Dave Woods is joined by ex-England half-back Kevin Brown and former Leeds Rhinos head coach Richard Agar, who will be assisting Samoa at the forthcoming World Cup. They discuss the strength of England’s first opponents and the news that NRL sensation Victor Radley has made himself available to Shaun Wane’s side. Plus, in the battle to avoid relegation, who will beat the drop; can anyone stop St Helens; and why are there seemingly so many more injuries and tries in Super League this season?

TOPICS 02:45 The panel discuss the announcement that NRL star Victor Radley has made himself available to play for England at the World Cup. 08:40 Richard, who will assist Samoa at the tournament, lays out the potential frightening strength of England’s first opponents. 13:10 Should Jackson Hastings, a former Man of Steel now in the NRL with West Tigers, be part of the England World Cup squad? 15:45 The Tigers are now coached by 71 year-old Tim Sheens, while Wayne Bennett, a year older, is also still coaching. 18:00 Richard and Kevin say it’s a two-horse race in the battle to avoid relegation from Super League, with Toulouse the favourites to avoid the drop. 23:00 How good is this current St Helens side? 27:25 Would they be able to not only compete, but challenge in the NRL? 30:30 Are players suffering more injuries in Super League this season? 35:45 And is there a suspicion players are feigning injury on the field to gain penalties? 42:00 Following Bevan French’s Super League record-breaking seven tries against Hull FC, are we witnessing more attacking play this year?

Dave Woods meets two leading figures from the wider world of rugby league to discuss the future of the game and highlight the growth and popularity of wheelchair rugby. Matt Dwyer is Vice-president, Sports Management at IMG, the company tasked with “re-imagining” and re-shaping the future of rugby league with big ambitions for the sport at every level. And Seb Bechara of Catalans Dragons is one of the biggest personalities in wheelchair rugby. His side face Leeds Rhinos in the Wheelchair Rugby Challenge Cup Final this weekend. Bechara, whose day job is a professional trumpet player, starred for England in last week’s win against France, but this weekend re-joins his club teammates to take on his international colleagues.

TIMECODES: Matt Dwyer 3’16 “What we’re looking to do is re-imagine rugby league in the UK” – discusses their three-phase plan 8’50 On the future structure of the game 11’26 On international development including a future potential international club competition 17’08 On mergers between clubs and the experience of how its worked in Australia 26’00 How can RL get beyond current boundaries 31’52 Matt compares potential growth of rugby league to what they have achieved with Euroleague Basketball and World Table Tennis Seb Bechara, wheelchair rugby league star of Catalans Dragons and England 37’53 Talks about choosing to play for England over France. Born in England to an English family but lived in France since aged 10. Talks of his “mega-pride of playing for England” 39’51 His journey on becoming a wheelchair rugby league player. Lost his leg in a motorbike accident in 2012 and how during rehab he discovered wheelchair basketball and then rugby league 42’18 On his career as a professional freelance trumpet player 47’23 Expectations for England in the World Cup and the fierce rivalry with France 50’14 The future of wheelchair rugby league and his ambition “to have club in every city” 52’30 On looking forward to “wiping smiles off Leeds Rhinos’ faces” this weekend in the Challenge Cup Final

This week’s round of Super League matches sees the return of the ‘Tackle the Tough Stuff’ campaign, focusing on mental and physical wellbeing.

And on this week’s podcast, several high-profile current and former players share their deeply personal stories around issues such as suicide, domestic violence and dealing with grief.

WARNING: This episode contains discussions about suicide. If you or someone you know is in need of help, you can find links to organisations who can provide help and support at www.bbc.co.uk/actionline Warrington’s Peter Mata’utia opens up on his difficult upbringing, his attempted suicide and his young son’s severe illness, Wigan assistant coach Lee Briers talks about dealing with the death of his brother and Salford’s Elijah Taylor on forgiving his former friend and agent who stole £200,000 from him. Time codes:: 01:15 – Katy Graham, Super League’s marketing manager, gives an overview of why the campaign is taking place. 04:30 – An interview with Warrington’s Peter Mata’utia, who begins by explaining his difficult upbringing. 07:25 – He talks of his attempted suicide aged 18. 10:20 – Peter suffered a serious injury – he broke his larynx playing rugby league and could have died, but it’s the game that keeps him going. 11:30 – His young son was found to have a football sized tumour in his stomach. 15:15 – Dave is joined by Craig Tomason, the partnerships and communities manager for Community Integrated Care, the social care partner of the RFL and Super League. 16:00 – His brother Oliver plays for the Warrington’s Learning Disability team, and has become a social media sensation through his try celebrations, having played and scored at Anfield and been invited to close the London Stock Exchange. 19:20 – Craig was behind the formation of the Learning Disability Super League, the only one of it’s type named after the sport’s premier competition. 21:25 – Salford’s Elijah Taylor discusses how his former manager, friend and father figure stole £200,000 from him when he was playing in Australia’s NRL. 25:00 – Elijah explains how he found out and how, despite four years of legal proceedings, not one penny was recovered. 28:40 – He tells how forgiveness was his route to help bring closure to this traumatic period in his life. 30:30 – Finally, Elijah is emotional when confronted with the question of how he would respond to ever meeting his former friend again. 34:10 – The final guest is Wigan Warriors assistant coach Lee Briers, who brother Brian died in 2001 and it took him a decade to confront his emotions. 36:30 – A very emotional Lee tells how in 2009 he took the Challenge Cup trophy to Brian’s grave and in 2010 why he pointed to the sky after winning the Lance Todd Trophy. 39:00 – Lee says it’s OK to show emotion, because it shows you care. 41:25 – He tells how he dealt with pain and loss through drinking. But in 2019 he gave it up for a year and despite the death of his mother was able to cope without the need to turn to alcohol. 44:30 – Dressing rooms these days are much more forgiving places and Lee credits his former coach, Tony Smith, with helping him deal with anxiety before games.

Two of the games’ greats, former Great Britain coach and captain Brian Noble and legendary dual-code international Iestyn Harris, join Dave Woods to discuss whether players are feigning injury to get players sent to the sin bin; who are the surprise packages and the coaches under pressure after five rounds of Super League; the Sixth Round Challenge Cup draw; and how Iestyn is shaping up ahead of his dancing debut at Rob Burrow’s Strictly Ball!

Two of the games’ greats, former Great Britain coach and captain Brian Noble and legendary dual-code international Iestyn Harris, join Dave Woods to discuss whether players are feigning injury to get players sent to the sin bin; who are the surprise packages and the coaches under pressure after five rounds of Super League; the Sixth Round Challenge Cup draw; and how Iestyn is shaping up ahead of his dancing debut at Rob Burrow’s Strictly Ball!

Two of the sport’s highest profile CEOs, Ralph Rimmer of the Rugby Football League and Karl Fitzpatrick of Warrington Wolves, join Dave Woods to discuss the new alliance between the RFL and Super League. Almost four years since the acrimonious split between the game’s elite and the governing body, the two sides are once again joining forces to grow rugby league and drive, with a new strategic partner on board, the commercial revenues it needs to compete in an ever-changing sporting landscape.

The return of the Super League is almost upon us and after a winter of waiting, Mark Chapman, Dave Woods and Iestyn Harris look ahead to this big year for the sport.

We discuss the new French sides in the League with Matty Russell of newcomers Toulouse.

Leeds Rhinos Women head coach Lois Forsell joins us to chat about the upcoming Challenge Cup and Super League.

And England men’s head coach Shaun Wane shares his excitement of the Rugby League World Cup and England’s hopes in this year's tournament.

In the final episode of the season, in what should have been the final days leading up to the start of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, we turn our attention to international rugby league, as England’s men and women prepare to take on France in a double-header in Perpignan on Saturday. Correspondent Dave Woods is joined by St Helens and England stars Alex Walmsley and Amy Hardcastle to discuss their club side’s heroics this season and their pride of pulling on the England jersey again. Wales head coach, and former England and France head coach, John Kear also joins the pod to discuss the growth of the international game and his thoughts for 2022.

In the penultimate episode of the season, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by the Bradford and Wales head coach John Kear, the former Great Britain halfback Iestyn Harris, and BBC rugby league commentator Matt Newsum to dissect Saturday’s Super League Grand Final, in which St Helens beat Catalans Dragons 12-10 to secure their third consecutive Grand Final triumph to make them the most successful club of the Super League era with a ninth title. The panel discuss where this Saints side ranks on the list of great title-winning teams and how Catalans can build on their historic maiden Grand Final appearance, as well discussing their best moments of the 2021 season.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Perpignan-based Rugby League journalist Steve Brady and Toulouse Olympique star Johnathon Ford to look ahead to potentially a historic weekend for French Rugby League, with Catalans Dragons just 80 minutes away from their maiden Super League Grand Final appearance and Toulouse Olympique just 80 minutes away from the ‘Million Pound Game’, which could see them promoted to Super League in 2022. The team discuss the growth of the sport in the South of France ahead of the country hosting the Rugby League World Cup in 2025.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Kevin Rye, Director of Think Fan Engagement, whose organisation has surveyed over 1,000 fans from across Rugby League’s top three divisions to get their views on the current state of the sport in the UK. The survey shows the vast majority of fans of Rugby League feel cut off from decisions at both their club and the governing bodies - Super League and the RFL. The survey also indicates that, although a few fans felt their clubs listened to them, the vast majority report a negative view of the way clubs engage and communicate with them. Many were scathing at how ignored they are in major decisions, including rebranding, changes of identity and name and stadium relocations. Other major issues included the RFL’s poor engagement with fans, and broadcaster Sky Sports changing kick-off times - something fans of football have themselves regularly complained about for years. England wheelchair star and World Cup ambassador James Simpson also joins the podcast to talk about his Leeds Rhinos side completing an unprecedented treble after beating Leyland Warriors in Sunday's Wheelchair Super League Grand Final.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by two of the rugby league’s most high profile administrators – RFL CEO Ralph Rimmer and RFL Chair Simon Johnson – to discuss the current state of the sport and their plans moving forward, including answering listeners questions on the future of rugby league in the UK. We’re also joined by Salford halfback Kevin Brown ahead of his final ever game of rugby league on Friday before retirement, and Kav Ellison, ambassador for Team Colostomy UK, the rugby league side looking to end the stigma surrounding stomas and provide inspiration for others in their situation.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Salford halfback Kevin Brown, Wigan Today sports editor Phil Wilkinson, and Daily Mirror rugby league correspondent Gareth Walker to discuss what's going on at Wigan following their heavy defeat to local rivals St Helens and the uncertainty over the future of head coach Adrian Lam. We also discuss which six clubs will make the end of season playoffs with just five weeks of the regular season remaining and ask whether Leigh can make a late survival push after winning their first game of the season at the 17th attempt.

On this week's episode, Correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Hull FC chairman and owner Adam Pearson and the St Helens and Ireland prop forward Kyle Amor to discuss the current plight of Super League. Pearson says the sport will be "dead" in 12 months if it doesn't make itself more appealing to the younger generation and bring in private investment. We also look ahead to this week's Super League Rivals Round, which, in most cases, pits clubs against their local rivals, including Pearson's Hull FC up against Hull KR and Amor's Saints up against Wigan.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Salford halfback Kevin Brown and Leeds Rhinos assistant coach Jamie Jones Buchanan to discuss next season’s Challenge Cup Final moving across North London from Wembley to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium and whether a new Champions League-style format could revitalise the competition. We also reflect on Chris Chester’s surprise sacking as Wakefield head coach and ask whether the Super League season should be extended following the postponement of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by England player and RLWC2021 tournament ambassador Jodie Cunningham, Wales head coach John Kear and Brad Walter, senior journalist for NRL.com in Sydney, to discuss the immediate fallout to the decision, and whether the tournament can be a success in 2022.

On this week's episode, Correspondent Dave Woods is joined by the Hull KR head coach, and former England head coach, Tony Smith, whose Rovers side are undertaking five days of quarantine after returning to the UK after being asked to play Catalans Dragons at short notice due to Covid cancellations. Previous to that, they hadn’t had a game since June 19. Salford Red Devils halfback Kevin Brown also joins the podcast from isolation following a breakout of Covid in the Salford squad, meaning their next two games have been postponed. The panel discuss whether the season will be completed and how rugby league develops as a sport post pandemic. We also ask whether the 2021 Rugby League World Cup can survive without Australia and New Zealand.

On this week's bonus episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by England forward Alex Walmsley, Wales head coach John Kear and Brad Walter, senior journalist for NRL.com in Sydney, to discuss the immediate fallout to Australia and New Zealand's decision to withdraw from the 2021 Rugby League World Cup, and whether the tournament can go ahead without them.

On this week's episode, Matt Newsum speaks to four-time Challenge Cup winner Martin Offiah about his role fronting the Government-backed 2021 Net Zero Week. The two-time Lance Todd Trophy winner is joined by St Helens' Women's Challenge Cup-winning captain Jodie Cunningham and multiple Challenge Cup finalist Kevin Brown to discuss how rugby league can become more sustainable as a sport. The panel also reflect on Saturday's Challenge Cup Final and ask where Saints rank among the great teams of the modern era.

On this week's bumper episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Jon Dutton, Chief Executive Officer of RLWC2021, and Wales head coach John Kear to discuss the World Cup officially being given the green light with just 100 days to go until the start of the tournament. We also hear from St Helens prop forward Kyle Amor and Castleford Tigers loose forward Adam Milner to look ahead to Saturday's Challenge Cup Final at Wembley.

Dave Woods is joined by the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle as well as Leeds legend and current Assistant-Coach Jamie Jones-Buchanan.

They discuss alignment of the governance of Rugby League. As well as the World Cup, the north-south divide, sponsorship and the future of the game.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by Brad Walter, Senior Journalist for nrl.com; Bradford Bulls and Wales head coach John Kear; and St Helens and Ireland prop forward Kyle Amor to discuss whether the 2021 Rugby League World Cup will go ahead as planned or whether it will be postponed. We also ask how Super League can stem the tide of Covid postponements.

After 18 months with Canberra Raiders in the Australian National Rugby League, England half-back George Williams has returned to England to be closer to his family, particularly as he and partner Charlotte are expecting a baby later this year. In this bonus episode, Williams talks about the factors behind the return and what the future holds for him in rugby league and life in general.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by the England head coach Shaun Wane, as he prepares to take charge of England for the first time against the Combined Nations All Stars. He tells why he hasn't selected star half back George Williams and what it means to coach his country for the first time. England Women star Jodie Cunningham joins the pod to look ahead to Friday's women's international against Wales, and after a 20-month layoff, England Wheelchair star James Simpson looks ahead to their game against Wales on Saturday and the squad's new supersonic wheelchairs.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by the St Helens and Ireland prop Kyle Amor and the former Super League head coach Steve McCormack, current Head of Welfare at rugby league charity Rugby League Cares, to take a deep dive into the brutality of rugby league following this week's news that Australia's 2017 World Cup-winning captain Boyd Cordner has been forced to retire aged just 29 following persistent head injuries. We also hear at length from Amor's St Helens team-mate, and England half back Jonny Lomax about the life-threatening head injury he suffered playing the sport as a child. Lomax was rushed to hospital to have emergency brain surgery when he was just 14 after suffering an extradural haemorrhage, which is when bleeding occurs between the tough outer membrane covering the brain and the skull, after fracturing his skull in a junior game. He also opens up about questioning whether he wanted to continue in the sport after rupturing his ACL three times during his career. And the team discuss rugby league's best rituals.

On this week's episode, correspondent Dave Woods is joined by the England captain and St Helens forward Emily Rudge and the Castleford Tigers three-quarter Jordan Turner to discuss their player-of-the-match performances in the Challenge Cup on Saturday, as Emily's St Helens won the Women's Challenge Cup for the first time, and Jordan reached his first Challenge Cup Final with Castleford. Leeds Rhinos assistant coach Jamie Jones-Buchanan also joins us to debate whether Saints' Theo Fages should have picked up the ball to score a try when Hull's Josh Griffin was stricken with injury, and Jordan tells us why he'll be proud to represent Jamaica for his family at the World Cup.

Matt Newsum is joined by Bradford Bulls’ head coach John Kear and the RFL’s chief on-field officer, Dave Rotheram who explains their controversial elite academy licencing decisions.

In mental health awareness week, Dave Woods is joined by former Super League star Shaun Lunt to talk about the illness that left him battling for his mental health. And ex Leeds and GB ace Keith Senior on how rugby league’s ground breaking Off Load programme is now being used by the NHS.

The only Polish player in Super League tells Matt Newsum about swapping Gdańsk for Leeds, and Gymnastics for Rugby League.

The documentary makers behind the new GB Lions film talk about life with Wayne Bennett's players in New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

Executive chairman Robert Elstone discusses the future of Super League after Toronto are denied a place in 2021 in a chat with rugby league correspondent Dave Woods. Catalans Dragons half-back Jimmy Maloney, one of the game’s great characters, also shares stories from his richly varied career.

How well has Rugby League reacted to COVID-19 and what can we expect in 2021? We're joined by Professor Ben Jones from Leeds Beckett University and the RFL's Head of Performance and Dr Gemma Phillips, the RFL's COVID-19 Medical Officer.

This week we're joined by Wigan Warriors Executive Director Kris Radlinski on Wigan's rebrand and why he is passionately optimistic for the future of the game.

One of Rugby League's newest board members, Rimla Akhtar, joins us to talk about her own fascinating story as a Muslim woman in sport, falling in love with Rugby League and tells us more about Rugby League's own blueprint for tackling racism together.

Sandy Shipley, is a Toronto Wolfpack superfan and she reveals some myth-busting facts about Toronto, plus Julia Lee, a pioneer for the women’s game back in the 1980’s when she became the first woman to officiate a men's rugby league game in the UK.

Julia took up refereeing aged 17 after seeing an advert in a matchday programme while watching her beloved Hull KR.

St Helens great Paul Wellens and Jon Wilkin join Dave Woods to discuss the privilege of pressure within a top team and why flat pack furniture offers a key life-lesson.

Dave Woods is joined by Scott Taylor, England & Hull FC prop forward and John Kear, Wales and Bradford Bulls Head Coach to discuss Shaun Edwards, Wales rugby union defence coach who is due to take up the head coach's role at Wigan in 2020... or is he, and if so for how long? We hear from Edwards who says he definitely wants to coach in the Six Nations again. The interview is from the Today programme. Plus Scott’s team, Hull FC, became the first to win a Super League game via Golden Point on Sunday when they beat Wigan Warriors 23-22. And we hear from his teammate, Marc Sneyd, who kicked the winning drop goal in extra time.

Dave Woods, Matt Newsum, Robbie Hunter-Paul and Brian Noble discuss a video in which Wigan players Joel and Sam Tomkins are seen abusing bar staff which led to Joel being suspended for four weeks and fined £10,000 and Sam being fined £5,000; plus two of this season's most successful coaches St Helens’ Justin Holbrook and Warrington’s Steve Price talk to 5 live’s Will Perry about a wide range of rugby league issues including their approach to the season, the future of Ben Barba and the challenges facing the new CEO of Super League Robert Elstone.

The RFL’s Ralph Rimmer suggests New York as a possible venue for Magic Weekend next year and discusses his meetings with Barry and Eddie Hearn and his royal appointment in Windsor on Saturday. Plus Dave Woods is joined by Bradford Bulls Head Coach John Kear, Toronto Wolfpack Head Coach Paul Rowley and BBC commentator Matt Newsum to discuss the latest edition of rugby league’s Magic Weekend in Newcastle and pick their team for England’s test match in Denver next month.

Disabled Australian comedian, TV presenter and South Sydney Rabbitohs fanatic Adam Hills tells Dave Woods about the formation of the Physical Disability Rugby League competition in England and how he takes a four-hour return journey every week to play for his adopted side Warrington Wolves; the Wakefield player Chris Hall reveals how he ‘died’ twice in hospital after being punched and elbowed on the field and how he returned to playing the game he loves, and John Kear looks back on the Sixth Round of the Challenge Cup.

What affect would withdrawing central funding have on clubs? Dave Woods explores the potential impacts with the Doncaster CEO Carl Hall, the business manager at Warrington Wolves Richie Mathers and the Yorkshire Evening Post’s Peter Smith; plus Salford owner Andy Rosler talks about the club's finances, their New York ambitions and a Magic Weekend yellow shirt.

Following the Challenge Cup 5th round weekend Dave Woods and Leeds Rhinos’ Jamie Jones-Buchanan focus on League One side York City Knights who narrowly lost to Super League’s Catalans Dragons and hear from the owner and chairman John Flatman about their philosophy, their ambitions for the club and plans for a new stadium plus the Head Coach James Ford reflects on how far the club has come both on and off the field in the past 18 months. Finally journalist Gareth Walker explores whether the Challenge Cup still has a prized place in rugby league.

Dave Woods examines the future of rugby league’s TV rights and what the game needs to do to ensure it gets the best deal in 2021; he finds out why Masters Rugby is the sport’s fastest growing sector as it celebrates it's 10th anniversary and hears from Neil Kelly who talks about his experiences as head coach of Romania and Namibia.

As the 20th anniversary nears former Sheffield Eagles coach John Kear relives his memories of his sides’ 1998 Challenge Cup final victory over Wigan Warriors; Jon Wilkin reviews the candidates for Wayne Bennet’s assistant coach and compares it to the situation in New Zealand plus Salford owner Andrew Rosler talks about the club’s future and their plans to take the game to New York.

Dave Woods speaks to the England and St Helens Women's Super League star Jodie Cunningham about why we should all be taking the women's game seriously; John Burke, the would be 70s superstar cut down by devastating injury tells his inspiring story and Andrew Henderson says London could be the future for rugby league.

Dave Woods convenes a panel of three PR and marketing professionals to discuss how rugby league can improve its image, attract new fans and what the sport can learn from Eddie Hearn.

Former prop forward Rob Parker tells Dave Woods how rugby league has helped inspire his acting career ahead of the release of his new film Walk Like a Panther; St Helens and proud Cumbrian Kyle Amor reveals his thoughts on the way forward for rugby league in his home county; Brian Noble gives an update on what’s happening in Toronto while the Wolfpack are playing in England and the club’s Chris O’Connor reveals the life of a rugby league analyst.

Dave Woods hears from Leeds Rhino's Stevie Ward on how mediation has made him a better player; the Warrington chief executive Karl Fitzpatrick reveals how he went from the playing field to the boardroom; Ray French remembers St Helens great Geoff Pimblett and Phil Wilkinson of the Wigan Observer discusses where all the sport's nicknames such as 'The Brick with Eyes', 'the Axe' and 'the Wall' have gone.

Dave Woods gets an insight into the re-appointment of Wayne Bennett as England coach from the RFL's Director of Rugby Kevin Sinfield and discovers why Bennett has a 2 year deal and who else was in the running; plus the current Chief Executive of the RFL Ralph Rimmer gives his thoughts on International games, the way forward for the sport, the Challenge Cup schedule and whether there's a plan for a Cumbrian development.

Dave Woods speaks to a neurology expert who reveals some shocking figures about head injuries in rugby league but says science can reverse the damage caused by concussions, the Leeds chief executive Gary Hetherington comes out fighting in favour of the Super 8s and the league‘s coaches reveal the one change they’d make to the British game.

Dave Woods is joined by Jamie Jones-Buchanan from the champions Leeds Rhinos to look ahead to the new Super League season. They hear from Wigan’s Sam Tomkins who's aiming to rediscover his magic touch; Castleford captain Michael Shenton reveals the lessons he learned from 2017; Catalans coach Steve McNamara talks about the change of culture at the French club; Salford co-captain Mark Flanagan reflects on life without Marwan Koukash; and Toronto’s Paul Rowley looks forward to the spicy match up with Leigh and whether they’re ready for life in the Championship

As England prepare for the Rugby League World Cup final Brian Noble talks to Sam Burgess who he signed as a 16 year old about moving to Sydney, playing for England in Union, his thoughts on the final and if he fancies returning to Super League one day; Wayne Bennett talks to Dave Woods during a tropical storm which halted England’s training session and England tour manager and former England and Great Britain captain Jamie Peacock talks about how envious he is of this squad’s talent and unity. Plus interviews with Gareth Widdop, Chris Hill, Luke Gale, Kallum Watkins, Aaron Woods and Matt Gillett.

Dave Woods, Brian Noble and Justin Morgan hear from an emotional James Graham and fellow forwards Tom Burgess and Chris Hill after England reach a World Cup final for the first time since 1995 to set up a meeting with holders Australia.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble experience a fan event in Auckland in which thousands of Tongan supporters turned up to give their players a rock star reception; Trad McLean, one of the Tonga tour managers, reflects on the incredible support the team have been getting in recent weeks; England coach Wayne Bennett, captain Sean O'Loughlin and prop James Graham and Tonga coach Kristian Woolf gives their opinions on Saturday's semi final; and the former England captain and current tour manager Jamie Peacock talks about how the international game can build on the Tongan success.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble preview the World Cup quarter-finals and hear from England coach Wayne Bennett and forward Sam Burgess following his knee ligament injury; Jermaine McGilvary, the flying superstar England winger talks about on his tournament so far including his brush with controversy and his unlikely route into rugby league; Paul Aiton, the PNG hooker explains what rugby league means to Papua New Guinea; and the Leeds Rhino's chief executive Gary Hetherington gives his thoughts on the announcement of next year's Melbourne v Leeds World Club Challenge.

Dave Woods, Brian Noble and Ian Millward review England's victory over France which set up a quarter-final against Papua New Guinea; the Scotland coach Steve McCormack reflects on his sides' heroic 14-14 final game draw with Samoa; Australian journalist Steve Mascord looks back at Tonga's incredible win over New Zealand in the "Game of the Ages" and the Tonga assistant coach David Furner reveals the mood from inside the Tonga camp; plus French commentator Rodolphe Pires talks about the future for French rugby league after their disappointing World cup exit.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble are in Perth ahead of England's match against France and hear from Kevin Brown and Scott Taylor following their call ups; coach Wayne Bennett reveals what he expects from his side; France and St Helens captain Theo Fages says his side's confidence is high and that sending home Eloi Pellisier has not affected morale; and Wales coach John Kear reflects on the disappointment of the Welsh World Cup and how the northern hemisphere risks being left behind by the southern hemisphere.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble assess the second weekend of the Rugby League World Cup and talk to England's Sam Burgess about his injury situation and his brother Tom's try; the Papua New Guinea coach Michael Marum discusses the potential of playing England in the quarter-finals and the Scotland Chairman Keith Hogg gives his first broadcast interview after three Scottish players were sent home for being too drunk to board a flight.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble look ahead to this weekend’s World Cup fixtures and hear the thoughts of England coach Wayne Bennett on his sides performance against Australia; the recently retired Hull and GB international Gareth Ellis talks about playing alongside the Lebanon captain Robbie Farah; the Chairman of the Rugby League European Federation Danny Kazandjian reveals the origins of Lebanese Rugby League and the St Helens and Welsh International Morgan Knowles tells Huw Morgan what it’s like playing in Papua New Guinea.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble reflect on the opening round of matches in the Rugby League World Cup and hear from England's Tom Burgess on training in the heat; the Ireland captain Liam Finn dissects his side's victory over Italy; the Welsh coach John Kear delivers his verdict on their defeat to Papua New Guinnea; Australian coach Ian Millward gives his thoughts from inside the host's camp and Channel 7's Liam Cox reports on what Australia has made of the World Cup so far.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble discuss the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. Hear from Kevin Brown, who is predicting a glittering World Cup for Ben Currie, St Helens hooker James Roby talks about his return to international action after a two-year absence, Steve McCormack explains why Scotland are not overawed by their opponents in Group B - plus Wales coach John Kear looks forward to an adventure in Papua New Guinea and reveals his dreams of playing England in the quarter finals.

Dave Woods delves into the history of the Rugby League World Cup with Andrew Marmont; journalist and author of ‘Their Finest Hour: A History of the Rugby League World Cup in 10 Matches’. Plus new Warrington coach Steve Price outlines his aims and objects for the club.

Dave Woods and Brian Noble discuss the Super League Grand Final where Leeds Rhinos claimed a record eighth title with victory over Castleford Tigers and hear from Toronto Wolfpack owner Eric Perez on his plans to launch two more rugby league sides in North America.

Brian Noble and Iestyn Harris look ahead to the Super League Grand Final between Castleford and Leeds and discuss the rights, wrongs and agonies of the Million Pound Game.

Tim Sheens discusses his career, the great players, Hull KR's promotion, the future of Super League and England's World Cup chances with Dave Woods and Paul Rowley reflects on a remarkable season with Toronto.

As the RFL rule out structural changes to the sport next season Dave Woods asks a coach, an agent and a journalist their opinion on what should change for 2019 and beyond.

Jamie Jones-Buchanan selects his starting 13 for England's World Cup opener against Australia, Andy Lynch talks about his hopes for a grand finale to his phenomenal career and Jamie Peacock reacts to Hull KR's return to Super League

As Eorl Crabtree is inducted into the Huddersfield Rugby League Hall Of Fame he sits down with Dave Woods to talk about his incredible career, why he didn't become a wrestler, how he nearly joined Saints and the prejudices within rugby union.

Mark Chapman reflects on last weekend’s Challenge Cup final with Jamie Peacock, John Wilkin and Brian Noble which saw Hull FC retain the trophy against Wigan Warriors at Wembley.

Wigan and Hull legends Kris Radlinski and Lee Crooks recall Challenge Cup heroics and heartaches, the incredible tale of Lance Todd and which Cas side is the classiest: 1994 or 2017?

Australian Rugby League journalist Steve Mascord talks to Dave Woods about the NRL's financial worries and gives an update on England's NRL stars plus Toronto's Ryan Burroughs reveals his USA World Cup dreams.

Dave Woods talks to Jack Bussey of Toronto and Tony Clubb of Wigan about their startlingly swift recoveries from serious illness and looks at London Broncos' rise and the future of rugby league in Cumbria.

Dave Woods talks to Zak Hardaker about the buzz around Castleford, Jamie Peacock reflects on the Challenge Cup semi finals, Brian Noble discusses the challenges facing Toronto and the RFL's Roger Draper silences some Super League myths.

St Helens wing sensation Regan Grace gives his first broadcast interview, John Kear selects the candidates for Coach of the Year and the sport pays tribute to the 'Pocket Rocket' Rob Burrow on his retirement

Dave Woods talks to Martin Offiah about talented wingers, hears from England's James Simpson to asses their chances at the wheelchair World Cup and speaks to women's rugby league international Jodie Cunningham ahead of the start of the Women's Super League.