SEN Secures Exclusive Las Vegas Return for 2026 NRL Season Opener

Sports Entertainment Network (SEN) is set to lead the Australian airwaves from the United States once again, confirming it will deliver live, on-site coverage of the National Rugby League’s (NRL) 2026 season-opening double-header from Allegiant Stadium.

The 2026 “Vegas Triple-Header”, which includes a Super League clash between Hull KR and Leeds Rhinos, will be headlined by two blockbuster NRL fixtures on Sunday, 1 March (AEDT). The Newcastle Knights face the North Queensland Cowboys at 1:15 pm, followed by the Canterbury Bulldogs taking on the St George Illawarra Dragons at 3:30 pm.

Commenting on the announcement, SEN CEO, Craig Hutchison, said: “Last year’s broadcast showed just how much appetite there is for rugby league on a global stage.”

“We’re proud to return to Las Vegas with an even bigger presence, a world-class commentary team, and a commitment to giving fans back home the closest seat to the action,” Hutchison said. 

Broadcast and Commentary Team

SEN has assembled a high-profile commentary team to lead the coverage from the ground in Nevada. Expert play-by-play and analysis will be provided by:

• Jimmy Smith: Veteran broadcaster and former NRL player.
• Chad Townsend: North Queensland Cowboys premiership winner.
• Tim Mannah: Former Parramatta Eels captain and New South Wales representative.

The network is leveraging its proprietary SEN Stadium and SEN Sync technology to provide zero-latency listening for fans both inside Allegiant Stadium and back in Australia. The goal is to bridge the 12,000-kilometre gap, providing a seamless “live” experience for listeners across the Sydney (1170am), Brisbane (693am), and Melbourne (1116am) markets.

Expanding the Vegas Footprint

Beyond the 80 minutes of play, SEN is increasing its program output from the U.S. capital of entertainment. The network will host several live flagship shows from the Vegas strip, including:

• Kick Off with Jimmy & Chad: Special editions airing Friday, 27 February and Monday, 2 March.
• The Front Office with Andrew Voss: Three live broadcasts on Wednesday, 25 February, Thursday, 26 February, and Monday, 2 March.

Commercial Activation: Clubs NSW Partnership

To further localise the international event, SEN has partnered with Clubs NSW to host official outside broadcast “watch parties.” These events at Canterbury Leagues Club and Wests Illawarra aim to drive foot traffic into local venues, featuring roving Elvis emcees, Vegas showgirls, and live broadcasts hosted by Brenton Speed, Justin Horo, and Brett Kimmorley.

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