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

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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.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan react to a packed weekend of Rugby League action and off-field debate.

The pair review the latest Challenge Cup fixtures, breaking down the standout performances and biggest talking points. They discuss the future of international Rugby League, as Martyn and Jake debate whether NRL players leaving the sport to pursue a Rugby Union World Cup highlights shortcomings in Rugby League’s own World Cup structure.

They also look ahead to the business end of the season, discussing which teams could meet in the Super League Grand Final, before analysing growing speculation around the England head coach role, with Brad Arthur and Willie Peters both reportedly showing interest.

Elsewhere, the episode covers key transfer and media news, including Cameron Smith’s departure to Wakefield next season, Tex Hoy’s new club, and whether Sky Sports will bid for Super League broadcasting rights in the next major TV deal.

🔑 Topics covered:

• Challenge Cup weekend review
• NRL players switching to Rugby Union & World Cup debate
• Who could reach the Super League Grand Final?
• England coaching race: Brad Arthur & Willie Peters
• Cameron Smith set to join Wakefield
• Tex Hoy’s next club revealed
• Future of Super League TV rights & Sky Sports

👉 Subscribe for weekly Super League analysis, Rugby League news, transfers, media insight and expert opinion from League Express.