#123: England Coach Race, Challenge Cup & Would Sky Sports walk away from the sport?

In this week’s episode of the League Express Podcast, Editor Martyn Sadler and Host Jake Kearnan react to a packed weekend of Rugby League action and off-field debate.

The pair review the latest Challenge Cup fixtures, breaking down the standout performances and biggest talking points. They discuss the future of international Rugby League, as Martyn and Jake debate whether NRL players leaving the sport to pursue a Rugby Union World Cup highlights shortcomings in Rugby League’s own World Cup structure.

They also look ahead to the business end of the season, discussing which teams could meet in the Super League Grand Final, before analysing growing speculation around the England head coach role, with Brad Arthur and Willie Peters both reportedly showing interest.

Elsewhere, the episode covers key transfer and media news, including Cameron Smith’s departure to Wakefield next season, Tex Hoy’s new club, and whether Sky Sports will bid for Super League broadcasting rights in the next major TV deal.

🔑 Topics covered:

• Challenge Cup weekend review
• NRL players switching to Rugby Union & World Cup debate
• Who could reach the Super League Grand Final?
• England coaching race: Brad Arthur & Willie Peters
• Cameron Smith set to join Wakefield
• Tex Hoy’s next club revealed
• Future of Super League TV rights & Sky Sports

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