NRL Welcomes Historic First: Emma Lawrence to Call Play-by-Play in Las Vegas
Australian sport has witnessed a significant moment with Emma Lawrence set to shatter a long-standing barrier. The familiar voice from Channel Nine and Triple M is poised to become the first woman in National Rugby League (NRL) history to take on the role of a full-time play-by-play caller. This landmark appointment will coincide with the commencement of the 2026 NRL season, kicking off in the vibrant city of Las Vegas next Sunday.
Triple M officially confirmed Lawrence’s elevation as part of its comprehensive 2026 NRL commentary lineup. This move sees her stepping into the primary calling chair, a position traditionally occupied by seasoned broadcasters and former players, standing alongside an elite group of sports commentators.
Lawrence’s journey to this pivotal role has been the result of months of dedicated behind-the-scenes preparation. It was revealed late last year that she had been diligently honing her play-calling skills in Triple M’s studios during the off-season. Her ambition was clear: to break into a role that has historically been the domain of men. This intensive preparation has now culminated in a truly historic achievement.
Expressing her enthusiasm, Lawrence shared, “I’m pumped to kick off the 2026 NRL season on Triple M! Calling the game that I love alongside such an elite crew is an absolute thrill, and I can’t wait to take listeners through every tackle, try, and big moment. Let’s get it started!”
Lawrence first joined the Triple M team in 2017 and has since become one of the most recognisable and respected voices in the sport. Her work on popular programs like The Rush Hour NSW and her contributions to Channel Nine’s NRL coverage have cemented her place in the sports broadcasting landscape.
While Lawrence has worked alongside other accomplished female analysts and commentators, including Ruan Sims, Danika Mason, and Allana Ferguson, none had previously undertaken the primary play-by-play duties in rugby league. Her appointment therefore marks a significant shift, placing her in a similar echelon to established callers like Dan Ginnane and signalling a defining evolution for the sport’s media representation.
A Parallel to AFL’s Breakthrough
This historic milestone inevitably draws parallels with the Australian Football League (AFL), where Kelli Underwood made her own groundbreaking appearance. Underwood became the first woman to call a men’s AFL match on television back in 2009.
Reflecting on her experience, Underwood spoke about the resistance she encountered when entering the role. “The best way to describe it – I put my hand on the door handle before anyone thought a woman had earnt the right to walk through the door,” she recalled. “I knew at the time that door handle would be red hot. I knew what was waiting for me on the other side – but I had a fire in the belly. I deeply believed it was the right thing to do. I also thought if it wasn’t me, then who is going to do it?”
Nearly two decades later, rugby league is now celebrating its own significant breakthrough moment, mirroring the progress seen in Australian Rules football.
Industry Recognition and Future Outlook
Ewan Giles, Triple M’s Head of Sports Content, lauded Lawrence’s promotion as a well-deserved and overdue recognition of her talent and dedication. “Emma stepping into the play-by-play call team is a no-brainer,” Giles stated. “Emma is one of the sharpest broadcasters in rugby league and is prepared, instinctive, and respected across the industry, and this opportunity reflects how highly regarded she is at Triple M.”
He further elaborated on the strength of Triple M’s 2026 lineup, highlighting the combined expertise and appeal. “Combined with Luke Keary’s debut and the return of Ryan Girdler, our 2026 lineup brings unmatched experience, insight, and personality. Triple M continues to deliver what footy fans want to hear.”
Lawrence’s appointment is not just a personal triumph but a significant step forward for inclusivity and representation in Australian sports broadcasting. Her success is expected to pave the way for future generations of women to pursue and achieve similar high-profile roles across all sporting codes. The 2026 NRL season promises to be a landmark event, not only for the competition itself but for the broader narrative of women in sports media.
