Rugby League's Growth in Lebanon

Lebanon's men's national rugby league team, known as the Cedars, has made significant strides by reaching the quarter-finals in the last two World Cups. This achievement highlights the growing presence of rugby league in a country not typically associated with the sport.

The Cedars' roster includes players from Australia's Lebanese diaspora, many of whom are prominent in the National Rugby League (NRL). The Lebanese Rugby League Federation is also focused on nurturing local talent, although this effort is complicated by the various crises facing the nation.

In a discussion on the sport's evolution in Lebanon, Gaby Haddad, the federation's chief operating officer, shared insights on the challenges of attracting eligible players to represent Lebanon. The conversation also featured Simon Smale from Australia's ABC, who provided details on notable players of Lebanese descent making their mark in rugby league.