Knights stars Kalyn Ponga, Fletcher Sharpe, Bradman Best and new signing Dylan Brown are set to dazzle under the bright lights of Las Vegas in 2026.
The NRL confirmed on Wednesday 14 May that Newcastle, North Queensland Cowboys, Canterbury Bankstown and St George Illawarra Dragons will take part in the third annual US extravaganza.
Super League outfits Hull KR and Leeds have been included in the schedule, too.
Adam O’Brien’s men will tackle the Cowboys at Allegiant Stadium on Saturday 28 February (Sunday 1 March in Australia).
The Bulldogs and the Dragons face off in the other NRL showdown.
Ponga admitted he was looking forward to the trip.
“If you compare it (NRL) to the sport they have now in NFL, and union as well, I think they’ll enjoy the speed of our game, the physicality of some of the hits, some of the shots and the athleticism of the players, as well,” he said.
“Even though it’s round one, it’s a big stage, so the players will get up for that and want to perform because it is a big occasion.
“There is excitement from our boys, for sure.
“You know a lot of them are just small-town country lads, so this opportunity is going to be huge for them.
“The experience is going to be amazing, not only for us, but also for our families and fans, which is the most exciting part.”
To reward eager league-lovers, the NRL is also launching the most competitive travel packages in the history of the Las Vegas event.
It’s facilitated four charter flights for the landmark occasion, with each themed for supporters of the individual NRL clubs.
“Las Vegas has become a bucket list item for not only NRL and Super League fans but for those of world-class sport and entertainment,” NRL CEO Andrew Abdo said.
“We’ve worked with our partners to create affordable travel packages for people who want to take advantage of a once-in-a-lifetime trip with family and friends.
“We’ve given supporters the opportunity to plan early and take advantage of special offers.
“Thank you to our clubs and all our partners, including the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, Allegiant Stadium and our broadcast partners, who have worked closely with us to create a truly unique event that launches the NRL season in unmatched style.”
Direct charter flights from Sydney to Las Vegas are available from $2,800 return while trips from Newcastle and Townsville are available from $2,990.
For more sports stories:
- Pickers pounce, Walsh wows and upsets rock NEWRL Denton Cup
- Knights sign NRL’s Vegas Combine winner Marcus D’Acre
- In-form forward Croker extends stay at Knights
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