Our Journalists

David RiccioChief Sports Writer

David Riccio is The Sunday Telegraph and CODE Sports chief sports writer with a career in journalism that includes 20 years at News Limited. A former sports editor of The Sunday Telegraph, David is an award-winning reporter who thrives on breaking news and writing in-depth profiles. Regarded as one of rugby league’s leading reporters, having covered grand finals State of Origin and World Cups, David was also a member of our 2016 Rio Olympic Games team and is the author of Alex McKinnon’s book Unbroken.

@DaveRic1

David Riccio

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NRL

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 04: Izack Tago of the Panthers is sent to the sin bin by referee, Peter Gough during the round five NRL match between Penrith Panthers and North Queensland Cowboys at CommBank Stadium, on April 04, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images)

NRL to act as fans blow up over sin bin stoppages

The NRL is aware of fan and player frustration over the high tackle crackdown which is seeing matches being brought to a standstill for incidents missed by the on-field referee.

VideoNRL

Rabbitohs and Roosters supporters brawl at Accor Stadium.

WATCH: Police investigating brawl between Roosters and Souths fans

A wild brawl between two South Sydney Rabbitohs and Roosters fans broke out at Accor Stadium on Friday night. Watch the footage here.

NRL

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 04: Murray Taulagi of the Cowboys is tackled during the round five NRL match between the Penrith Panthers and North Queensland Cowboys at CommBank Stadium on April 04, 2025, in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brendon Thorne/Getty Images)

Sin bin controversy as Cowboys inflict Panthers’ fourth straight loss

A stunning Cowboys comeback has condemned the four-time defending premiers Penrith to a fourth-straight defeat for the first time in 12 years and spoiled Isaah Yeo’s 250th NRL game.

NRL

The Panthers are struggling to start the season. Picture: NRL Photos

Panthers analysis: Burning issues jeopardising title defence

From injury woes to damning defensive statistics, defending premiers Penrith are facing challenges they haven’t been confronted with during their era of NRL dominance. DAVID RICCIO reveals six burning issues that need addressing.

ExclusiveNRL

Cleary’s greatest test: How dynasty mentality exposed Panthers

Open, honest and fixated on arresting Penrith’s worst start to a season since 2019, Ivan Cleary gives an exclusive insight into the biggest challenge of his Panthers tenure, admitting for the first time his team may be guilty of relying on their past.

NRL