LIVE REACTION: TLT Round 9 - Knights and Broncos Stars Return and Mass Changes in Canberra

Rugby League Guru Podcast12mApril 28, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

The Rugby League Guru Podcast delivers a high-octane live reaction to Round 9 of the NRL, spotlighting massive squad revivals and strategic reshuffles across the league. The most electrifying news? Newcastle Knights return to full strength with Kaelin Ponga, Bradman Best, and Greg Inglis all back in the starting lineup—turning them into genuine title contenders at just $2.05 odds, a stark contrast to their recent struggles. Meanwhile, the Brisbane Broncos ignite hope with the long-awaited returns of Rhys Walsh and Pat Carrigan, while Canberra Raiders face a crisis in depth, naming a bizarre bench with multiple forwards and hookers, signaling a potential tactical overhaul. The Melbourne Storm also make bold changes, benching Trent Leroux and Joe Chan as Craig Bellamy pushes for a turnaround. With key players like Hugo Peel making his NRL debut and several HIA and suspension absences reshaping rosters, this round is defined by comebacks, injuries, and high-stakes roster decisions that could define the season’s trajectory.

Key Takeaways
1

Newcastle Knights return to full strength with Ponga, Best, and Inglis, making them $2.05 favorites despite past struggles.

2

Rhys Walsh and Pat Carrigan return for the Brisbane Broncos, signaling a major boost in depth and morale.

3

Canberra Raiders name a confusing bench with five forwards and two hookers, suggesting a tactical reset under Ricky Stewart.

4

Melbourne Storm bench Trent Leroux and Joe Chan, likely preparing for Origin with Tyrone Wishart starting.

5

Hugo Peel makes his NRL debut for Melbourne Storm, a homegrown talent from the club’s development system.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
0 min

Welcome to Round 9 Live Reaction

Host opens the episode with excitement for the upcoming Round 9 NRL action, setting the tone for a detailed team-by-team breakdown.

0:24
1 min

Bulldogs vs Cowboys – Key Absences and Changes

Harry Hayes and Kikau out for Bulldogs; Marcelo Montoya drops to bench. Cowboys see Murray Tolongi out, Zach Labart returns.

1:00
1 min

Dolphins vs Storm – Backline Shifts and Debutants

Trey Fuller in center, Jack Bostock in reserve. Brad Schneider at 5-8. Melbourne Storm debut Hugo Peel on wing, Jerome Hughes out.

2:00
1 min

Titans vs Raiders – Canberra’s Depth Crisis

I don't quite know what to make sense of that but I guarantee you this, that will not be the side that runs out for Ricky Stewart.

Highlight
3:00
1 min

Eels vs Tigers – Injury and Return Watch

Ali Leotawa out; Adam Pompei returns. Lukey Metcalf named in jersey 20—unclear if he’ll play first grade or NSW Cup.

High-Impact Quotes
Unreal to see. Bradman Best returns in the centre spot. Greg Marshew returns on the wing. Fletcher Sharp will line up at 5 -8 with Dylan Brown at
Rugby League Guru Podcast Host8:31
Viral: 82.0
I don't quite know what to make sense of that but I guarantee you this, that will not be the side that runs out for Ricky Stewart.
Rugby League Guru Podcast Host5:57
Viral: 78.0
Huge news, Rhys Walsh and Paddy Carrigan returning for the Brisbane Broncos.
Rugby League Guru Podcast Host8:11
Viral: 75.0
Speakers

Host

Rugby League Guru Podcast Host
Topics Discussed
nrl-round-995%newcastle-knights-return90%brisbane-broncos-return85%canberra-raiders-bench-chaos80%melbourne-storm-debut75%hugo-peel-debut70%nrl-odds-value65%nrl-injury-updates60%
People & Brands

newcastle-knights

other

8xPositive

melbourne-storm

other

7xPositive

brisbane-broncos

other

6xPositive

canberra-raiders

other

5xNeutral

hugo-peel

person

4xPositive

kaelin-ponga

person

3xPositive

rhys-walsh

person

3xPositive

pat-carrigan

person

3xPositive

jaden-braley

person

2xNeutral

ricky-stewart

person

2xNeutral

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