The Nines Premier League 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events on the rugby league calendar, as former NRL stars return to the field to showcase their skills and compete for glory. Held at Tugun Leagues Club on the Gold Coast, this event promises to bring together thrilling matches and nostalgic reunions among players. Fans are eager to witness the action on January 25 and 26, 2025.
Now entering its third year, the Nines Premier League has rapidly gained popularity, featuring renowned players such as James Maloney, Alex Glenn, Matt Bowen, and Corey Norman. The tournament will see teams from Australia and New Zealand, including international contenders from Papua New Guinea, coming together to compete in this dynamic 9-a-side format. Tournament director Anthony Mitchell expressed his excitement, stating, "It’s been exciting to bring this concept to life over the past three years. It’s grown each year, and we are certain players and fans will have a great time over the weekend with high-quality footy, a festival atmosphere all the family can enjoy, and more."
Among the storied participants is James Maloney, who is making his return to the sport after 18 months away from professional rugby league. The 38-year-old former star had left the NRL at the end of the 2019 season to play for the Catalans Dragons and later joined Lezignan XIII, only to retire from professional rugby league. A tropical cyclone thwarted his plans last year, but now he is set to don the Southern Sharks jersey. "I think for me, it’ll be fun... but I just know once I get there, I’ll be too competitive. It’ll p**s me off if we lose," Maloney said, reflecting on his anticipated return.
Maloney's newly trained Southern Sharks team, who come with back-to-back titles from previous Nines competitions, will be facing stiff competition as they aim to secure victory once again. The former premiership-winning playmaker is nervous yet excited about joining such successful company. “I haven’t played for them yet, so that's put a bit of pressure on me this year. If we lose, that's not going to be good at all,” he remarked, highlighting the expectations surrounding him.
Alongside Maloney, fans are particularly interested to see the competition from Jarryd Hayne, another former NRL sensation. After facing legal battles and spending time incarcerated, Hayne is eager to re-establish his place within rugby league. This will be his first official appearance following his release, though his previous attempt at joining the Nines Premier League came to naught. Speaking for the first time since his release, Hayne declared, "I’m really excited to return and show everyone what I can do." His return adds another layer of excitement for fans of the sport, who are curious about how he will perform under the current circumstances.
The tournament structure comprises 16 teams drawn randomly across four pools, with each team playing three round games. Matches will follow the modified rugby league rules crafted for the Nines Premier League. Teams earn points based on match results, with the top two from each pool progressing to the trophy quarter-finals. This exciting format ensures every match holds significant importance, making for thrilling encounters throughout the day.
Fans will be welcomed to enjoy not just the matches but also the festival atmosphere surrounding the event. Venue details have been crafted to look after all attendees, ensuring everyone feels part of the rugby league family. General admission tickets and VIP marquee options will be available, promising fans access to moments of nostalgia, high energy, and sportsmanship.
Mitchell’s vision for the Nines is evident, aiming to make it more than just matches—it’s about bringing the community together, showcasing former stars, and introducing new talent to the limelight. With teams like the Southern Sharks, the DAWGS, the LEGACY, and many others poised to compete fiercely, the event is expected to be one for the ages.
The tournament is also providing opportunities for younger players, heightening competition levels with so many former stars on the field. Maloney expressed his concern about the swift-footed youths coming through. "It’s awesome having guys with so much NRL experience, but I reckon the danger is probably the young guys playing from around Queensland and New South Wales playing A-grade level. They’re younger and will be the biggest test," he noted.
With the Nines Premier League sporting such immense talent and promising matchups, the excitement is palpable. Fans and players alike are prepared for what could be one of the most engaging events of the year. The weekend of January 25 and 26, 2025, marks the occasion when past, present, and future collide on the rugby league stage, promising action, suspense, and unforgettable memories.