NRL Daily | The Tigers Dudded, The Player Market Is In Overdrive & Why Has Perth Not Signed Anyone!

·49 min·4 clips

Shane Richardson says AI needs a 'good hard look at itself' after giving the Tigers a controversial round one bye.

This episode of NRL Daily focuses on the latest off-season news and controversies in rugby league. Hosts David Riccio and Brent Reid, joined by Charlie White, analyze major stories from player movements to the 2025 draw. The Wests Tigers are furious after receiving the Round 1 bye for the second time in three years, with CEO Shane Richardson criticizing the AI system that now creates the draw. The State of Origin schedule gives New South Wales the first game, though the hosts debate whether this is an advantage. Magic Round in Brisbane is unofficially slated for May 15-17, following Women's Origin on May 14. Key Round 1 matches include Jarome Luai's Penrith facing Canberra, Jahrome Hughes playing Melbourne, and Daly Cherry-Evans returning to Manly. Melbourne Storm face uncertainty as star forward Eliesa Katoa remains hospitalized, potentially missing the start of the season. Nelson Asofa-Solomona has spoken about his desire to play for a coach who believes in him, with Parramatta a potential destination if they free up salary cap space. Gold Coast Titans star Tino Fa'asuamaleaui is a free agent, with discussions about his massive contract and potential suitors like Brisbane if Payne Haas leaves. Haas is strongly linked to the new rugby union competition, R360, which could trigger an immediate 10-year NRL ban if he signs. Other players connected to R360 include Ryan Papenhuyzen, Zac Lomax, and Herbie Farnworth. The incoming Perth Bears franchise has yet to make a player signing, though they are reportedly in talks with Jaden Campbell and Keaon Koloamatangi. A photo of Kalyn Ponga with a Warriors official was a coincidence, but it fueled ongoing speculation about his future at Newcastle. One host believes the Tigers can make the top eight in 2025, citing the impact of recruit Kai Pearce-Paul and a full season from Terrell May. The NRL's proposed ban for players signing with R360 is framed as a stance against a rival that doesn't invest in junior pathways. Parramatta's calm approach to Zac Lomax's potential departure is noted as a sign of improved club management. The Perth Bears have reportedly secured a front-of-jersey sponsorship worth around $2 million per season. Despite being allowed to talk to players, the Bears are hesitant to announce a minor signing first, fearing it would be a "millstone." The hosts debate whether elite forwards like Tino Fa'asuamaleaui are worth salaries approaching $1.7 million in a salary cap system. The tone is conversational and opinionated, featuring lively debates between the veteran journalists. The style is insider-driven, focusing on rumors, contract details, and behind-the-scenes maneuvering. Rugby league fans craving the latest transfer gossip and off-season drama will enjoy this episode. Listeners seeking in-depth game analysis or interviews with players might find it less engaging.

As heard by us

A brisk, argumentative footy desk built around NRL gossip and player-market stakes.

This episode stays in the lane of NRL gossip, starting with the Tigers' complaint about the draw and a quick mention of Adam Peacock heading to SEN.

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If you want today's NRL gossip without the polish or patience, start here.

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