For many NRL players, the journey to first grade is a tough slog of trialling, trialling, and trialling again – like Wests Tiger Reuben Porter, who found a home after years of trying to crack a top 17. See the list of 2024’s train-and-trial success stories.
Behind every Tom Trbojevic, James Tedesco and Nathan Cleary stands a team of lesser names without which finals are impossible. These are the unsung heroes who have impressed in 2024.
Controversial former rugby league player Jarryd Hayne is back training, with renowned sprint coach Roger Fabri hinting at a comeback to professional sport.
Wayne Bennett and Jack Gibson are the first-ever coaches to be recognised for their huge impacts on the game.
The Panthers have breathed a sigh of relief, with Brian To’o cleared to take the field despite a week of drama featuring a contract saga and a virus. See all the predicted team changes.
Phil Gould’s legendary powers of persuasion have failed once again with Stefano Utoikamanu rejecting the Bulldogs and signing with premiership powerhouse Melbourne Storm.
The Dragons have wasted no time moving on from missing their shot at Blaize Talagi, with coach Shane Flanagan confirming his interest in re-uniting with Valentine Holmes.
John Bateman has made a subtle dig at the club culture of the Wests Tigers upon his return to the UK, raving about the work Sam Burgess has done as a rookie coach of Warrington.
Brian To’o’s $650,000 price tag from next season makes him the game’s highest earning wingers. However, the prospect of facing next season without the four men who were groomsmen at his wedding has started to hit home.
A statistical analysis has revealed that two young NRL halfbacks aren’t far behind where Nathan Cleary was at similar stages of their careers. See the numbers that show who’s on track for Cleary-level greatness.
Original URL: https://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/journalists/tyson-jackson/page/9