Danny Buderus has been released from hospital after scans cleared the retiring Newcastle hooker of any serious head or neck injuries.

Russell Packer has emerged as a prime target of the Newcastle Knights and it is becomingly increasingly likely the popular prop won't be at Mt Smart next season.

Manly back rower Glenn Stewart insists he's not worried about a high tackle report that could jeopardise his participation in next weekend's NRL grand final.

The Sydney Roosters reportedly sacked a sports nutrition company after learning six players, including Kiwis winger Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, had high levels of a banned substance.

Wayne Bennett has refused to give any guarantees he'll see out the remaining two years of his contract with Newcastle.

England fullback Sam Tomkins has spoken of his excitement at joining the New Zealand Warriors next season.

Wayne Bennett wasn't cracking any smiles but Newcastle veteran Danny Buderus says the master coach is excited about getting back into September NRL finals action.

It's not only stars Jarrod Mullen or Darius Boyd that the Melbourne Storm are wary of, it's the man who will orchestrate Newcastle's NRL semifinal showdown tomorrow night.

The Kiwis World Cup squad is starting to take shape, but the Kiwis selectors are still unsure about whether they will be able to call on Sonny Bill Williams.

Sonny Bill Williams says the Sydney Roosters must become familiar with pain and exhaustion if they are to win the NRL premiership.