Isaac Issa Journalist

One NRL star is about to return to footy this weekend, while another’s comeback date is set. See the latest scoops from around the league in ESPN’s mid-week mail, with updates rolling in everyday. 👇 espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id…

Teig Wilton is pushing to return this week from shoulder surgery, according to Craig Fitzgibbon. “He’s looking really good… hopefully he can get through today, one more session.” Positive signs for Cronulla. @ESPNAusNZ #NRL #CronullaSharks

Sunia Turuva is set to play in the centres for the Wests Tigers this weekend, following reports earlier in the week by @ESPNAusNZ that he had been training in the position. Full scoop + the latest NRL mail below 👇 espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id…

The Wests Tigers will not be chasing Bronson Xerri or Scott Drinkwater, despite reports. “We’re not chasing Bronson. We’re not chasing Drinkwater.” Full scoop via @ESPNAusNZ #NRL #WestsTigers #BronsonXerri

The Melbourne Storm face a battle to retain one of their brightest young forwards. @ESPNAusNZ understand Talas Abell has caught the attention of several NRL clubs, while he negotiates a new deal with Melbourne. Full details on ESPN’s website. espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id…

Blaize Talagi admitted he’s put on more muscle over the offseason, while Brian To’o revealed his plan to stop Roosters’ Mark Nawaqanitawase from “being great”. 🗣️ Full scoop via @ESPNAusNZ! 👇 espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id…

Bulldogs coach Cameron Ciraldo was disappointed with Bronson Xerri’s reaction to being dropped. “It was disappointing… it would’ve been nice to enjoy a weekend without any of these dramas.” He also said he isn’t “totally sure” Xerri was denied an extension, but doesn’t “believe that’s true”. #NRL #BronsonXerri #CanterburyBulldogs

Mikolaj Oledzki has now officially signed with the Bears 🐻🚨

NRL STOCKS by @ESPNAusNZ! 🏉 A chaotic Round 2 saw comebacks fall short and favourites fall flat. Let’s see how each club’s stocks are looking this week. Dolphins, Knights, Titans, and Sea Eagles by @IsaacIssaRL. ✍️ espn.com.au/nrl/story/_/id…

Got the chance to hop on The Mind Games Podcast over the weekend, where we chatted about my journey, what’s to come, and some insights into the world of media! 👀 Full episode below 👇 youtu.be/m5JwRqtG3a4?si…

Alex Johnston unveils his statue

Penrith Injury Update 🚨 Liam Martin is “definitely a chance” of returning in Round 3 from a calf strain according to Ivan Cleary, while Liam Henry “isn’t ready yet.” #NRL #PenrithPanthers

Penrith Panthers coach Ivan Cleary has poured cold water on any Izack Tago exit. “Someone’s telling porky pies… it’s not destabilising because someone’s telling a lie. It’s part of the reason our transfer system is an ordinary one.” #NRL #PenrithPanthers

SHARKS NEWS 🦈 Craig Fitzgibbon says Jesse Ramien wants to remain a Shark, and the club is looking to retain him. ✍️ “He wants to stay, and we’re looking at keeping him if we can.” #NRL #CronullaSharks

The NRL Big Board is back! Find out which player’s debut is “imminent” and who bumped Coby Black off the top spot. 👀

Welcome to ESPN's third #NRL Big Board! 🏉 We've got a new man at the top and Cooper Clarke ripping through the Eels on debut, but where do all these future rugby league stars rank after Round 1? @IsaacIssaRL WRITES 📝 : bit.ly/4bqj1pf

🐯 TIGERS NEWS: Jarome Luai spoke about Heamasi Makasini ahead of the Tigers’ first match of the season. “He's an awesome talent… I think the challenge for him now is be consistent with it. He’s definitely up there [to win a starting role].” #NRL #WestsTigers

SHARKS NEWS 🦈 “He wanted to stay. It hurts.” Craig Fitzgibbon says Siosifa Talakai wanted to remain at Cronulla before agreeing to join the Perth Bears. 🐻 “[He’s] got a really good opportunity now [with the Bears].” #NRL #CronullaSharks

“I went four or five years without a premiership before I came here… so it’s probably not so different for me.” Luke Garner on Penrith missing last year’s Grand Final. #PenrithPanthers #NRL

Panthers fullback Dylan Edwards has praised the development of young outside back Jaxen Edgar, who features on ESPN’s NRL Big Board. “He’s full of energy. He’s got immense talent. He’s super fit… he’s going to be one to watch.” @ESPNAusNZ 🎧 Audio below.