NRL 2026 kicks off with Storm vs. Eels and fan fury over Tigers’ absence
The 2026 NRL season is set to kick off with a bang, as the first game on Australian soil sees Melbourne host Parramatta, marking a new era for the Storm following Ryan Papenhuyzen's departure. The opening round also features several grudge matches and notable returns, while the Wests Tigers fans express outrage at their team's absence.
The AI-developed draw has sparked excitement and anticipation. Melbourne and Parramatta will clash in the first game back on home soil, with the Storm beginning life after their star fullback, Ryan Papenhuyzen. Elsewhere, the opening round sees several grudge matches, including Penrith vs. Brisbane and Melbourne vs. Parramatta. The Warriors will start their season at home against the Roosters, with Daly Cherry-Evans expected to make his debut for the Tricolours.
Meanwhile, the Wests Tigers will not feature in the opening round for the second time in three years. Fans have expressed their frustration at the team's absence, with their last opening round appearance being in 2023. The club was given a bye in 2024. In other news, the 2026 NRL season will see Pat Richards take the reins as head coach of the Wests Tigers, starting in the 2026 season.
The opening round also sees several notable returns. Reece Walsh and the Broncos will face the Panthers at Suncorp Stadium, while Daly Cherry-Evans will return to Brookvale Oval to face his former club, Manly.
The 2026 NRL season promises an exciting start, with grudge matches, notable returns, and a new era for some clubs. The Wests Tigers fans, however, will have to wait a little longer to see their team in action. The men's State of Origin series will kick off on May 27 at Accor Stadium, while the women's series begins in Newcastle on April 30, with no game in Sydney for the 2026 series.
