Rugby League World Cup: Warriors great Shaun Johnson joins Channel Seven broadcast team
Former Kiwi star Shaun Johnson is the latest big name to join Channel Seven’s Rugby League World Cup coverage, with the New Zealand Warriors great set to lend his expertise to the tournament’s broadcast team.
Former Kiwi star Shaun Johnson is the latest big name to join Channel Seven’s Rugby League World Cup coverage, with the New Zealand Warriors great set to lend his expertise to the tournament’s broadcast team.
The 2023 Dally M runner-up and half-back of the year played 35 Tests for New Zealand, scoring a Kiwi-record 225 points for the national team and playing in the 2013 World Cup final.
Johnson will join the likes of three-time Sydney Roosters premiership-winning coach Trent Robinson, three-time premiership winner Luke Keary, Melbourne Storm premiership player Ryan Papenhuyzen, dual international Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, and former World Cup winner Aaron Woods on the coverage team.
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“The game between New Zealand and Australia on October 15 to kick off the tournament is about as big as it gets,” he said.
“When Australia and New Zealand go head-to-head, there’s always another level of intensity, and to have the Rugby League World Cup played in Australia, New Zealand and PNG, in front of passionate home crowds is going to make the this World Cup even more special.
“I’ve enjoyed stepping into the broadcast space and talking about the game in a way that I can be proud of. Understanding what the players are feeling in real time on the ground, is the perspective I carry with me into the commentary box.
“International rugby league has never been more competitive, and the rivalry between these nations is as fierce as ever, with nations like Samoa & Tonga shaping up to be every chance at taking the trophy home.
“Australia are chasing a fourth Rugby League World Cup title in a row, but I think this New Zealand side has every reason to believe we can challenge them.
“New Zealand have a huge opportunity here. We know how much it means to pull on the black jersey, and to have the chance to bring the Rugby League World Cup home would be something incredibly special.”
Seven and 7plus will be the exclusive home for all men’s women’s and wheelchair Rugby League World Cup matches.
