Shaun Johnson joins Channel 7 for Rugby League World Cup coverage – Former New Zealand Kiwis star Shaun Johnson has joined Channel 7’s on-air team for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Johnson will bring first-hand experience of international rugby league to Seven’s coverage. His first major assignment will be the tournament-opening clash between New Zealand and Australia on 15 October.
For Australian viewers, the signing adds one of New Zealand’s most recognisable modern players to a commentary line-up built around recent elite-level experience. Channel 7 and 7plus will be the exclusive Australian home of every men’s, women’s and wheelchair match.
Shaun Johnson ready for the commentary box
Johnson said he was looking forward to joining the broadcaster for a tournament being staged across Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.
“I’m looking forward to joining Seven’s commentary team for the Rugby League World Cup.
“The game between New Zealand and Australia on October 15 to kick off the tournament is about as big as it gets. When Australia and New Zealand go head-to-head, there’s always another level of intensity.”
He said passionate home crowds would make the tournament especially significant. Johnson also believes his recent playing experience will help him explain what is happening on the field.
“Understanding what the players are feeling in real time on the ground is the perspective I carry with me into the commentary box,” he said.
A major trans-Tasman opening match
Australia will enter the tournament chasing a fourth consecutive Rugby League World Cup title. However, Johnson believes New Zealand can challenge the defending champions.
He also expects Samoa and Tonga to be genuine contenders as the international game becomes increasingly competitive.
“International rugby league has never been more competitive, and the rivalry between these nations is as fierce as ever,” Johnson said.
“New Zealand have a huge opportunity here. We know how much it means to pull on the black jersey, and to have the chance to bring the Rugby League World Cup home would be something incredibly special.”
Seven assembles an experienced World Cup team
Johnson joins an extensive Channel 7 commentary roster. It includes three-time Sydney Roosters premiership coach Trent Robinson and three-time premiership winner Luke Keary.
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, who has represented both Samoa and New Zealand, is also part of the team. The former IRL Golden Boot winner will be joined by Melbourne Storm premiership player Ryan Papenhuyzen.
World Cup winners Aaron Woods, Brett Kimmorley, Brent Tate and Emma Verran complete the group announced by Seven.
Johnson’s New Zealand record
Johnson played 35 Tests for New Zealand and scored 225 points in the black-and-white jersey. That total makes him the leading points scorer in Kiwis history.
His individual honours include the 2014 Golden Boot and the 2023 Dally M Halfback of the Year award. He retired from playing in 2024.
Since then, Johnson has developed his broadcasting career with Sky Sport in New Zealand and Fox Sports in Australia. His Channel 7 appointment now gives him a central role in the Australian coverage of international rugby league’s major tournament.
The 2026 Rugby League World Cup begins with New Zealand against Australia on 15 October, with every men’s, women’s and wheelchair match available across Channel 7 and 7plus.
For more TV Central rugby league news, head here. View Channel 7’s sports coverage through the public 7plus Sport hub.