Channel 7 reveals Rugby League World Cup broadcast team – Channel 7 has named the presenters, commentators and experts for its Rugby League World Cup 2026 coverage.
The tournament airs on Channel 7 and 7plus Sport from Thursday, 15 October to Sunday, 15 November 2026. Coverage will include all 53 men’s, women’s and wheelchair matches.
For Australian viewers, this is one of Channel 7’s biggest sport commitments of 2026. It also extends the network’s rugby league presence, with several names from The Agenda Setters Rugby League moving into World Cup coverage.
Hosts
Mel McLaughlin and Matt White will lead the coverage for 7Sport. They will be joined by Sunrise presenter Matt Shirvington and 2013 Rugby League World Cup winner Corey Parker.
Expert Panel
The expert line-up includes Sydney Roosters premiership-winning coach Trent Robinson, Luke Keary, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Ryan Papenhuyzen.
World Cup winners Aaron Woods, Brett Kimmorley, Brent Tate and Emma Verran will also feature. So will James Graham, Lote Tuqiri, Yasmin Meakes, Shontelle Stowers, Shane Flanagan and Stephan Rochecouste.
Commentary
Andrew Voss will be Seven’s head caller. The commentary team also includes Anthony Maroon, Andrew Moore, Drury Forbes and Sky New Zealand’s Beaven Dewar.
Emma Freedman will take viewers closer to the stories around the tournament. Katie Brown, Jelisa Apps and Charlie White will report from the sideline.
David Riccio and Peter Badel will add rugby league reporting across the event. Nath Roye will cover player personalities and lighter moments away from the field.
Wheelchair Tournament
The wheelchair tournament will be played at WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong. Jono Farr and former Ireland international Kyle Amor will call those matches. Rochecouste will also provide analysis.
Opening Match
The Rugby League World Cup 2026 begins with Australia against New Zealand in the men’s tournament at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium on Thursday, 15 October.
The Jillaroos will enter the women’s tournament chasing a fourth straight World Cup title. The event will also give wheelchair rugby league a major Australian stage.
The Rugby League World Cup 2026 airs live and free from Thursday, 15 October, on Channel 7 and 7plus Sport. For more rugby league coverage, visit TV Central’s Rugby League section. You can also read TV Central’s recent The Agenda Setters Rugby League coverage. Watch sport on 7plus Sport.
