Ruan Sims and Brett Sprigg commentate the Samoa v France game on ABC Sport

The big one between Samoa and France in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup comes up at 7.45pm AEST today, Sunday 16 October 2026. It is one of the final games before the decisive Australia v New Zealand showdown, and fans who have watched the series develop will know exactly how much is riding on this particular clash.

The game will be followed live on ABC Sport, the channel that has taken over commentary for the World Cup. Leading the all-star commentary team is Ruan Sims, a former Jillaroos World Cup-winning captain, joined by Brett Sprigg as the main commentator, with Quentin Hull rounding out the team. A dedicated reporter will also be on hand throughout.

Who is commentating

Brett Sprigg is the headline name for today's game, and ABC Sport has already given fans a taste of how the preparation works. A recent video from the channel walks viewers through exactly how the commentator sets out ahead of a game, so those watching Samoa v France can expect a polished, well-prepared broadcast.

Ruan Sims brings real pedigree to the microphone. As a former Jillaroos captain who has won a World Cup in the past, he is uniquely placed to read the field, and a 2022 interview with Sportshone captured his own take on the role: "What we see on the field is just a snapshot." That reminder that the live commentary is only part of the story is a fitting one as the series nears its climax.

Where to watch

Every game of the men's and women's Rugby League World Cup is being brought to viewers by ABC Sport. The full programme can be found on the channel's listen page, where fans can follow each clash as it happens.

ABC Sport Rugby League World Cup listen page

With Samoa v France under way at 7.45pm AEST, this is the game that sets the stage for the final showdown, and it is one the all-star commentary team will not be short on.

Article generated: 16 October 2026, 07:46 GMT