Get Ready for a Rugby League Extravaganza! This weekend, the Gold Coast is set to become the epicenter of rugby league action as the Nines Premier League makes its much-anticipated return. For all the fans who've been eagerly awaiting more on-field excitement, this tournament is bringing a star-studded lineup of former NRL legends to the sunshine state.
Now in its fourth year, the Nines Premier League is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of the sport, bringing together 16 teams for a weekend of thrilling matches at the Tugun Leagues Club on Saturday and Sunday. It's a testament to the league's growing popularity that 12 teams have already secured their spot in the 2026 competition based on their stellar performances last year. The remaining four teams had to battle their way through intense qualifiers held in Brisbane and Sydney in recent weeks, adding an extra layer of drama to the mix.
But here's where it gets exciting for the fans: a veritable who's who of rugby league's past greats are lacing up their boots! Prepare to witness the magic of James Maloney, Bryce Cartwright, Blake Austin, Matt Moylan, Alex Glenn, Corey Norman, and Andrew Fifita, among others, as they showcase their skills on the Gold Coast.
Last year's champions, the Southern Sharks, who dominated the competition in 2023 and 2024 before a narrow defeat in the final to the Southside Dawgs, are back with a vengeance. James Maloney, a key playmaker for the Sharks and a premiership winner himself, is brimming with confidence. He shared his thoughts on their chances, noting, "We’ve got a lot of younger guys from Wollongong, the south coast and even a few Canberra boys which is good so hopefully I can just get in the middle and pass it all out to them and let them do most of the running." He further elaborated on the team's strategic advantage: "I think it’s a mix of oldheads that have got into footy and some younger quick athletic guys because Nines is suited to that style of play."
And this is the part most people miss: Maloney highlighted the tournament's unique social aspect. "It’s cool because I’m obviously really good mates with (organiser) Anthony Mitchell who started it and he’s done such an awesome job to grow it every year," he said. "You get a real mix of ex-NRL boys that are sort of having to run around with local A-grade players and it gives people a little bit of exposure so it’s a good fun weekend. It’s a real social weekend because you catch up with so many guys you haven’t seen for a long time and see how they’re going. It’s an awesome atmosphere." He also playfully added, "It’s funny because you’ve got all these ex-NRL boys but I think the young fit (and) fast guys are the key. They’re the ones you sort of need. We’re too old these days so we sort of need some of the young kids around us because it’s obviously fast. It’s only nine minutes in halves but it’s an awesome concept."
Joining the fray is Bryce Cartwright, a recent retiree from the NRL who last played for the Eels in the 2025 season. Cartwright will be representing FTA (From The Area), a team that earned their spot through the Sydney qualifier. For Cartwright, this is more than just a game; it's a chance to represent his roots. "For me, I think it’s really special just representing where I come from. The colours that we wear, were colours that we strive to wear when we’re kids. We’re in the Sydney West Colours, the blue and yellow. That’s all that you ever wanted as a kid," he expressed with evident pride. He also shared his anticipation for facing younger teams, adding, "I’m keen (to go against) all these young teams. They seem to talk a lot on Instagram and post their park footy highlights. I’m the old fellow so the pressure is all on them young boys, so I’m looking forward to coming up against those guys that are a bit loud on Instagram."
The action kicks off on Saturday at 8:45 am AEDT, exclusively on Kayo Sports.
Who do you think will take out the Nines Premier League this year? Are you excited to see these former NRL stars back in action, or do you believe the future of the game lies solely with the emerging young talent? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
