The match that showed the NRL’s plans are working

May 11, 2026 — 11:46am

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When responding to criticism of its fast-forward 2026 model, the NRL can produce Sunday’s Canberra-Penrith game as Exhibit A for the defence.

The scoreline, a 30-18 Penrith win, doesn’t represent what a fabulous game this was. A first half with 38 completed sets and no knock-ons from either side, blistering play-the-ball speeds and ferocious tackling that still couldn’t keep out five tries was followed by a second half in which Penrith defended desperately while Canberra kept throwing everything at them.

The speed and time of ball in play did not lead to touch football or a blowout, but to a match of grand final quality, showing that if you hold on to the ball and play with precision, this version of rugby league can be what the label says it is.

Dyeing for the colours

Jake Trbojevic will die for the Manly jersey, his brother Ben said after Jake’s 250th game on Saturday. But what jersey is it? Manly’s mainly white 2026 strip, with the maroon lurking above red and blue stripes, seems “inspired” by the........

© Brisbane Times