League Express Podcast

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan pay tribute to BBC Pundit, Legendary Coach and League Express Podcast regular John Kear. 
They breakdown the Wigan Warriors winning their 22nd Challenge Cup, following a dominant 40-10 victory over Hull KR at Wembley. They discuss the standout performers from the final, including Jack Farrimond’s career-defining display, and analyse where it all went wrong for Hull KR on the biggest stage. The pair also debate the selection dilemma facing Matt Peet with Bevan French returning from injury, as well as the Sam Walters’ red card and whether the RFL should be concerned about the Challenge Cup Final attendance.
The episode also covers the opening match of the State of Origin series, with New South Wales defeating Queensland, and the controversy surrounding Kalyn Ponga’s sending off. Martyn and Jake discuss whether the decision was justified and what it could mean for the remainder of the series.
They also react to the shock news of NRL CEO Andrew Abdo’s resignation, discussing the implications for the game and what comes next for the negotiations between the two competitions.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the major talking points across Rugby League, beginning with the tragic news that Jai Arrow has been forced into medical retirement following an MND diagnosis.
They also react to including Brodie Croft signing with the Warrington Wolves and John Cartwright being appointed as the new head coach of the Catalans Dragons.
The pair provide the latest update on the on-going NRL and Super League negotiations, discussing where talks currently stand and what a future agreement between the competitions could look like.
They also discuss the exciting news that Bradford Bulls and Leigh Leopards will head to Las Vegas alongside the Melbourne Storm, Wests Tigers, Gold Coast Titans and Parramatta Eels, as Rugby League’s push into the American market continues.
To round off the episode, Martyn and Jake give their thoughts on the newly announced State of Origin squads, analysing the biggest selection calls and key talking points ahead of the series.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan break down all the action from the Challenge Cup Semi Finals, including Wigan Warriors’ huge victory over St Helens and Hull KR’s convincing win against Warrington Wolves.
They discuss whether Wigan have silenced their critics after their dominant performance, and ask the big question — can anyone stop Hull KR from winning the Super League title this season?
The pair also debate Sam Burgess’ controversial comments surrounding the use of the video referee system, and whether match officials should face the media to explain major decisions after games.
Elsewhere, they discuss whether Hull KR fans should be concerned about Willie Peters potentially taking players with him to the PNG Chiefs, as well as the latest developments in the ongoing NRL and Super League talks during the NRL’s Magic Round.
The episode also covers London Broncos’ new Australian investor Andrew Gray, the New Zealand Warriors allowing Luke Metcalfe to negotiate with rival clubs, and the debut of Phillip Coates, younger brother of Xavier Coates, for the Brisbane Broncos.
To round things off, Martyn and Jake preview this weekend’s Super League fixtures and the key storylines to watch.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan discuss all the latest action from Super League and the NRL, analysing the biggest talking points across both competitions.
They debate which Albert Goldthorpe Medal contenders they most enjoy watching, before turning their attention to the Leeds Rhinos and the continued evolution of Jake Connor.
The pair also preview this weekend’s Challenge Cup Semi Finals, with St Helens taking on Wigan Warriors and Hull KR facing Warrington Wolves.
Off the field, they discuss developments at the top of the game, including the RFL’s CEO shortlist and changes at Odsal Stadium.
The episode also covers major news from the NRL, including Melbourne Storm coach Craig Bellamy’s health diagnosis, as well as a debate around expansion, with discussion on whether the PNG Chiefs have an unfair advantage over the Perth Bears and if further support from the NRL is needed.

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan break down all the action from the Super League weekend and the NRL’s Anzac Round, analysing the standout performances and biggest talking points from both competitions.
They also discuss a key question for the international game — who will captain England at the World Cup if George Williams is unavailable? The pair react to Brian McDermott’s interview following his appointment as England head coach, with Martyn sharing insight into McDermott’s family history and his time as a Royal Marine.
Elsewhere, they reflect on a historic milestone as four players reach 400 career appearances, discuss Tyler Dupree’s move to Castleford, and explore how the NRL could invest in the growth of Rugby League in Wales.
The episode also covers emerging expansion news, including reports that Jarome Luai could become the first signing for the PNG Chiefs, with rumours suggesting Alex Johnston may follow.