rugby league

Proposed changes might see birth of a Pacific team

The proposal has a New Zealand side along with a Pacific Nation team in the southern conference, while at least one match a week would be broadcast live on the Nine Network.

A new second-tier competition to be introduced in 2018 would include the merger of several Sydney clubs and the inclusion of numerous regional entities.

The proposed Platinum League would involve a southern (NSW) and northern (QLD) conference, with the two winners to meet on NRL grand final day.

Thurston wins Golden Boot again

The 32-year-old, who led the Cowboys to a first NRL grand final triumph and won the Dally M medal for a record fourth time in 2015, beat off competition from New Zealand international Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Leeds' England fullback Zak Hardaker.

England hang on to sink Kiwis

England captain Sean O'Loughlin scored a late try in the wet Wigan stadium, after forward Elliot Whitehead scored twice to the visitors' own three tries.

O'Loughlin powered over eight minutes from time to put England 20-6 ahead against the world's top-ranked side, but the Kiwis fought back in the closing minutes, Samoan-born Roger Tuivasa-Sheck and Jordan Kahu grabbing tries to set up a tense finale.

However England hung on to seal their first series win over either World Cup winners Australia or No.1-ranked New Zealand since 2007.

ARL boss, teammate backing Packer

Packer is hoping to revive his NRL career after signing with the St George Dragons in October.

However the 26-year-old is reportedly facing deportation under new Australian immigration laws after being jailed for two years in 2013 for assault.

The office of immigration minister Peter Dutton says Packer's case is being reviewed but no decision has been made at this stage.

Grant says the government's decision is nothing to do with them but he's satisfied Packer has done enough to renew his career.

The Cooks return to the world of league

The Kukis haven't played a match since the 2013 World Cup, having been overlooked for the first three years of the Pacific Test programme.

They face Tonga later this month in a winner-takes-all qualifier for the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

This Saturday's match-up against Niue is a chance to test players and combinations but coach Alex Chan says it's just nice to finally put a Cook Islands team back on the park.