LeagueNews.co | Nick Loken
The kick-off times and broadcast details for the NRL's opening round matches at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas have been announced. The 2026 NRL season will kick off on February 28, featuring the Newcastle Knights squaring off against the Cowboys, followed by the Dragons facing the Bulldogs. Additionally, a Super League match between Hull KR and Leeds Rhinos is scheduled.
This exciting three-game event will take place on Saturday, February 28, 2026 (local time) at Allegiant Stadium and will be broadcast live to a vast global audience spanning multiple markets and time zones. The day will commence with the Super League match between Hull KR and Leeds at 4pm (11am AEDT), leading into two anticipated NRL games.
The Cowboys, showcasing talents like Tom Dearden, Scott Drinkwater, Jason Taumololo, and new hooker Reed Mahoney, will battle the Knights, who are expected to feature returning superstar Kalyn Ponga alongside star recruit Dylan Brown at 6:15pm (1:15pm AEDT).
Following that, the Bulldogs, strengthened by the signing of Kiwis Test prop Leo Thompson, will take on the Dragons, who will have new halfback Daniel Atkinson on their roster, at 8:30pm (3:30pm AEDT).
In Australia, all matches will be broadcast live on Fox Sports, while Channel 9 will air the Bulldogs vs. Dragons game. In the United States, viewers can catch the action on the Fox Sports network.