As an advocate of international rugby league I am disappointed but not surprised that much of the Australian mainstream media coverage since the 2017 Rugby League World Cup started has centered on NRL club player transfers.

Ahead of facing New Zealand to decide who tops Pool B at the Rugby League World Cup, Mate Ma’a Tonga’s coach has challenged his men to improve their toughness or face a harsh reality check.

Spurs may have toiled in their Sunday lunchtime win over Crystal Palace, but that scarcely matters.

Often, the overwhelming talent on the Australia side brings expectations of instant fireworks and huge score-lines. For better or worse, under the Mal Meninga regime that simply won’t be the case.

As the build-up to a summer of Ashes cricket begins and debate continues around who should have the gloves for the Australian team, Monday memories revisits arguably the greatest Ashes innings by a wicketkeeper – or by an Ashes debutant.

Via NRL Media

Australia has a long and hallowed history in the surfing world’s narrative.