The global rise of Rugby League is getting a significant boost, and Lebanon is at the forefront. For the first time, players from the Cedars – Adam Doueihi and Alex Twal – have been selected for the RLWC2026 Team of the Week, as voted by fans. This isn’t just a nod to individual talent; it’s a powerful signal of growing international engagement with the sport, and a testament to the increasing competitiveness of nations outside the traditional powerhouses of Australia and England.
- Lebanese Breakthrough: Doueihi and Twal are the first Cedars players to achieve this recognition, highlighting the nation’s rising profile in Rugby League.
- Fan Power: Over 45,000 fans participated in the voting, demonstrating a strong appetite for direct involvement in team selection.
- Dominant Performances: Twal topped all positions with 45% of the vote for lock, while Doueihi secured a strong 34% in the halves, indicating clear standout performances.
This fan-driven Team of the Week initiative, launched in anticipation of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, is a clever strategy by the NRL and Super League. It’s designed to build excitement and awareness around the tournament, and crucially, to broaden the sport’s reach beyond its core fan base. The inclusion of players like Doueihi and Twal, who have strong ties to their heritage nations, taps into the growing diaspora communities that represent a significant potential audience.
The dominance of players from the West Tigers – Twal, Doueihi, and Kai Pearce-Paul – is also noteworthy. It suggests a strong team performance and a breeding ground for talent that is attracting international attention. The presence of players eligible for multiple nations (like Arama Hau, eligible for both Tonga and New Zealand) adds another layer of complexity and intrigue to the international landscape.
The Forward Look
The success of this initial voting period suggests the RLWC2026 Team of the Week will be a key driver of engagement leading up to the tournament. Expect to see increased media coverage and social media buzz around the selections each Wednesday. More importantly, this initiative could influence player development pathways. Young players with dual eligibility may be more inclined to represent their heritage nations, knowing that strong performances will be recognized by a global audience. The October 15th opening match between Australia and New Zealand at Allianz Stadium will be even more compelling with the increased spotlight on players like Hau, who could be pivotal for either side. The real test will be whether this sustained engagement translates into increased attendance and viewership for the World Cup itself. The NRL is betting that it will, and the early signs are very promising.
The RLWC2026 Team of the Week is:
- Fullback: Reece Walsh (36%)
- Wingers: Dom Young (30%), Thomas Jenkins (26%)
- Centres: Kotoni Staggs (38%), Casey McLean (27%)
- Halves: Adam Doueihi (34%), Nathan Cleary (35%)
- Props: Jacob Saifiti (24%), Naufahu Whyte (19%)
- Hooker: Harry Grant (41%)
- Secondrowers: Arama Hau (28%), Kai Pearce-Paul (18%)
- Lock: Alex Twal (45%)
View the final voting for the RLWC2026 Team of the Week.
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