ABC Sport calls the Papua New Guinea v Lebanon cup: Brett Sprigg and Dene Halatau on duty

The standout match of the Rugby League World Cup 2026, papping Papua New Guinea against Lebanon on 17 October 2026, is being called by ABC Sport. That single-channel decision, with no BBC, Sky or Fox Sports coverage attached to this particular game, is worth noting for readers who are used to the usual multi-channel coverage of the World Cup. If you want to hear the kick-off and follow the action live, ABC Sport is the place to be.

The main commentary is being provided by Brett Sprigg, working alongside co-commentator Dene Halatau, with reporting duties handled by Kiana Takairangi. This trio is exactly the kind of lineup ABC Sport has been promoting ahead of what it is calling the NRL Grand Final, and their preparation shows.

Meet the commentary team

Brett Sprigg is ABC Sport's main commentator and one of the most recognised voices in the league. He has been featured in behind-the-scenes ABC content showing exactly how he sets out his notes and prepares for a game, work that fans have clearly taken an interest in. His calls have drawn plenty of praise over the season, with one recent broadcast described as a "ripping call" by listeners tuning in to hear the World Cup live and ad-free on ABC.

Dene Halatau brings a strong pedigree to the booth. He is a former New Zealand international and former NRL player, and he has spoken openly about his experience winning the 2005 NRL Premiership as a member of the West Tigers. That kind of first-hand knowledge makes him an especially valuable partner for the main commentator, able to draw on real memories of what it takes to be a true premier.

Kiana Takairangi is a Cook Islands international and has taken on the reporter's role for this match, tracking events and feeding updates through to the commentators. Alongside Brett Sprigg and Dene Halatau, she forms part of the growing roster ABC Sport has assembled to cover every game of the World Cup this season.

Where to watch

Because this match is being called exclusively through ABC Sport, there is no competing coverage to chase. Tune in through the ABC Sport channels to catch the Papua New Guinea v Lebanon cup, and you will hear Brett Sprigg and Dene Halatau working together with Kiana Takairangi reporting from the field. It promises to be a clean, ad-free listen for the World Cup finale.

For a look at how the commentary team gets ready ahead of games like this, ABC Sport has put out content showing Brett Sprigg preparing his notes and setting up his approach, which is worth a watch if you want to understand the work that goes into each call.

Learn more about ABC Sport's coverage of the World Cup

Article generated: 17 October 2026, 05:26 GMT