Episode 158: Triumph, tribulations and tributes

John and Ross are back and they discuss the latest on the worrying Salford Red Devils circus. They touch on the proposed NRL takeover of Super League, what it may involve, why its come about and what a new competition could look like. They also chat about RFL boss Tony Sutton's recent media appearance, Phil Gould's comments and break down the Ashes series, including potential selections.

John and Ross are back for a special episode after an insane week in rugby league. They chat about the farce at Salford Red Devils and how the issues and the situation rolls on. They discuss the raft of resignations at the RFL and the coup that has seen Nigel Wood controversially return to the governing body as interim chairman. They also touch on the serious complaints raised by women at the RFL and the departure of Gary Hetherington from Leeds to take over at London.

Ross and John are live from Las Vegas ahead of rugby league’s takeover of Allegiant Stadium. They talk about the experience of being in Vegas, the events and activities they have been on, the impact of it all, and what it all may mean for the NRL and Super League in the future.

John Davidson sits down with Warrington CEO Karl Fitzpatrick ahead of the journey to Las Vegas. They talk about the massive game against Wigan in Sin City, rugby league's attempts to crack America and the impact the event has already had. They also discuss Super League's dramatic opening round, gaining publicity and breaking out the bubble, Warrington's partnership with Luke Littler.

John catches up with rugby league journalist and author Richard de la Riviere. The pair talk about media access in rugby league, the women's game and his website womensrl.com. They also discuss the upcoming match in Las Vegas, the Ashes and Garry Schofield.

John and Ross are back to discuss the England vs Samoa series, international rugby league and Joseph Sua'ali'i crossing codes. They talk about code hoppers in rugby union and rugby league, the difficulties involved and whether a merger could happen in the future - of if it's pure pipedream. They also touch on the Mark Aston/concussion case and answer your questions.

Hull KR hooker Matt Parcell joins the podcast ahead of the Super League semi-final against Warrington. Matt talks about Hull KR’s great season, the danger of Warrington, his career and his impending retirement.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/by-the-balls--2968437/support.

Warrington Wolves fullback Matt Duffy joins us ahead of the Super League semi-final against St Helens. Matt talks to us about his excellent season, being name in the Dream Team and the upcoming finals. He discuses Sam Burgess’ transformation of Warrington, his background in the NRL and his transfer to Super League.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/by-the-balls--2968437/support.

Ross and John are back for a bumper episode where they discuss Las Vegas, the NRL and Super League teaming up in America, and Hull KR top of the table. They chat about IMG and cutbacks at the RFL, the next World Cup being hosted by Australia and PNG, Salford rising, St Helens struggling and loads more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/by-the-balls--2968437/support.

John and Ross are back with a special tribute to Rob Burrow. They also discuss Rohan Smith’s dismissal at Leeds, potential candidates to replace him, England’s shocking player payments for the France test and more.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/by-the-balls--2968437/support.