NRL 2026 grand final: Andrew Johns
Rugby league legend Andrew Johns previews the 2026 NRL grand final between the Roosters and the Knights. He analyzes the tactical strengths of both teams, focusing on defensive strategies and key players like Kalyn Ponga and James Tedesco.
Why it matters
The NRL grand final is a major cultural and sporting event in Australia, and expert analysis provides insight into the competitive dynamics of the match.
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Share A A A Big games are won in big moments, and the biggest game of 2026 will be no different.
The Roosters and Knights have plenty of points in them, and score them in distinctly different ways. But they have also been the two best defensive sides of the finals series , despite their roads to the decider being very different.
Grand final guns: Kalyn Ponga, James Tedesco, Francis Manuleleua and Reece Robson could be key players for very different reasons in Sunday’s grand final. Artwork: Marija Ercegovac Newcastle have been underdogs the whole way – knocking off South Sydney, travelling to New Zealand, rumbling heavyweights Penrith with only 12 players – and now they ride momentum and emotion that is unlike any other in rugby league.
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