Jack Anderson: Australia a country divided between Union and League

The NRL’s annual revenue in 2024 was six (6) times that of RA’s (€70m). RA competing for players against the NRL is like a novice chaser going stride for stride with Arkle - you won’t keep up and you’ll likely just fall.

IN THE SPOTLIGHT: Bundee Aki during Lions training in Perth yesterday. Pic: Billy Stickland/Inpho

Australia’s premier rugby series is tied 1-1 and the decider is in Sydney on 9 July.

It’s not the Lions; it is rugby league’s State of Origin series between NSW and Queensland. League is hugely popular in Australia, especially in Sydney, and the depth of skills and talent on display in the Origin series and in the lead competition (the NRL) this year, shows just how fierce the competition is for rugby union.