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Only 3 Steps (Quick + Easy) to Watch the National Rugby League From Anywhere in 2026:
Download and install a VPN that works with the NRL streaming platforms. I highly recommend ExpressVPN because it has lightning-fast speeds for live streaming and boasts a user-friendly interface.
Once installed, open the VPN and connect to a server.I recommend picking a nearby server to get the best possible speeds for buffer-free streams.
Start watching. Prepare to dive into the thrilling world of rugby league!
The best way to securely watch the National Rugby League is with a VPN. A virtual private network (VPN) is a service that encrypts your internet traffic, allowing you to stream more privately and securely. And since it hides your traffic from all third parties, including your ISP (Internet Service Provider), it also prevents it from throttling your speeds, so you can enjoy uninterrupted games.
A VPN conceals your real IP address when you connect to a server — the VPN assigns you an IP address that matches the location of the server you’re connected to. This permits the VPN to access different streaming platforms that carry the NRL.
If you want to stream the NRL with a VPN, I’ve found some great picks — and my top choice is ExpressVPN. It works with top NRL streaming platforms and provides the fastest streaming speeds on the market. There are other good options on my list, too, so read on to take your pick.
Editor’s Note:The VPNs listed below don’t monitor or log your online activities, meaning it’s up to you to follow all laws, rules, and regulations when using a VPN. At SafetyDetectives, we don’t support any form of copyright infringement.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
How to Watch the National Rugby League on Any Device
1. Get a VPN that works with sites streaming the National Rugby League.
I think ExpressVPN is the best pick since it’s super-fast and works with 100+ streaming sites, many of which broadcast National Rugby League games.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
2. Download and install the VPN.
You can download the provider’s app from its site or from your device’s app store. After that, just follow the on-screen instructions to set up the VPN.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
3. Open the VPN app and pick a server to connect to.
Wait for the VPN connection to be established. Once that’s done, you can start securely streaming National Rugby League games.
What Streaming Services Show the National Rugby League?
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
ExpressVPN is the best choice for catching National Rugby League matches from any corner of the globe. Not only is it compatible with all of the platforms that stream the NRL, but its blazing-fast speeds ensure you never miss a try or a tackle due to buffering.
Most importantly for NRL fans, ExpressVPN works seamlessly with leading streaming platforms. These include 9Now, Watch NRL, Sky Sports, and others.
ExpressVPN is easy to use on all kinds of devices, too. In addition to common platforms like Android, iOS, Windows, and macOS, ExpressVPN also works with smart TVs, Amazon Fire Stick, and routers. This means that every gadget under your roof can potentially stream NRL matches via ExpressVPN. I also like the MediaStreamer feature, which further enhances streaming for devices that are traditionally not VPN-compatible, such as certain smart TVs.
ExpressVPN: Save 78% on the Basic 2-year purchase!
Editor's Note: Private Internet Access and this site are in the same ownership group.
Private Internet Access (PIA) is tailor-made for sports enthusiasts. It can access 9Now, Watch NRL, and beIN TV without an issue. I also like how it has top-tier speeds, so you can stream in HD with minimal buffering.
I really like that PIA allows you to connect to servers in a particular city in your country. This way, you can use the closest server. For example, there are 5 cities you can connect to in Australia and 3 in the UK.
Private Internet Access: Save 89% on the 2-year purchase!
Editor's Note: CyberGhost and this site are in the same ownership group.
CyberGhost VPN is another great way to stream NRL fixtures with minimal interruptions — the VPN offers specialized servers optimized for 50+ streaming platforms across 20+ countries. These include 9Now, Fubo, YouTube TV, and Sky, all of which air the National Rugby League.
45 days (for 6-month and 2-year plans);
14 days (for 1-month plan)
Editor's Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company
How to Choose the Best VPN for Watching the National Rugby League in 2026
Choose a VPN that works with NRL streaming platforms. The VPNs in this article work with multiple NRL streaming services like 9Now, Watch NRL, beIN, and more.
Opt for a VPN with impressive speed and performance. All VPNs will slow your connection down a bit, but some are way worse than others. If you don’t want those intense NRL moments to be disrupted by irritating buffering, you need a fast VPN. All the VPNs on my list, especially ExpressVPN, enable a seamless streaming experience by maintaining impressive speeds across all servers.
Ensure the VPN provides comprehensive device compatibility. A VPN’s versatility can be measured by the breadth of devices it supports. Every provider on this list works on all major types of devices. ExpressVPN even has intuitive apps for routers and smart TVs.
Pick a VPN with strong security features. Your online safety is paramount. Every VPN on this list adheres to industry-leading security standards, including 256-bit AES encryption, an automatic kill switch to safeguard against potential data leaks, and an independently audited no-logs policy. Whether you’re watching the rugby or simply browsing, these features ensure that your online activity remains confidential.
Look for a VPN that works with other streaming services. Chances are you’ll want to watch more than just the NRL with your new VPN. The VPNs on this list also work with Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime. From my tests, ExpressVPN particularly stood out, as it’s compatible with 100+ streaming platforms.
Find a cost-effective solution. Value for money should always be a priority. Each VPN I’ve discussed offers competitive pricing structures, accommodates diverse payment methods, and provides risk-free money-back guarantees.
You can watch the NRL live online through streaming platforms like 9Now. However, the platform you use depends entirely on your current location. Platforms like 9Now and Kayo Sports only work in Australia. Another dedicated service is Watch NRL, which is aimed at fans outside of Oceania. A VPN can access all of these streaming sites — and the VPNs I recommend work with these platforms without an issue.
Can I watch NRL live on my phone?
Yes, most NRL streaming platforms have official mobile apps available for both iOS and Android devices. These apps typically offer live streaming, replays, highlights, news, and more, ensuring you have the NRL action at your fingertips. However, some streaming apps may not appear on your phone’s app store if the streaming service is not available in your region.
How can I watch the National Rugby League on my TV?
Start by choosing a reliable VPN like ExpressVPN, which provides top-notch and intuitive smart TV apps. For Android TVs, directly download and install the VPN app. However, for non-Android TVs, you’ll need to first configure the VPN on your router. Once set up, ensure your smart TV is connected to the VPN-enabled router. Finally, connect to a server, log into your preferred NRL streaming platform, and enjoy watching your favorite NRL teams compete for victory.
Editor's Note: ExpressVPN and this site are in the same ownership group.
Best VPNs for Watching the National Rugby League in 2026 — Final Score:
Editor's Note: Intego, Private Internet Access, CyberGhost and ExpressVPN are owned by Kape Technologies, our parent company
The listings featured on this site are from companies from which this site receives compensation and some are co-owned by our parent company. This may influence rankings and the manner in which listings are presented.
Kamso Oguejiofor is a former Content Writer at SafetyDetectives. He has over 2 years of experience writing and editing topics about cybersecurity, network security, fintech, and information security. He has also worked as a freelance writer for tech, health, beauty, fitness, and gaming publications, and he has experience in SEO writing, product descriptions/reviews, and news stories. When he’s not studying or writing, he likes to play basketball, work out, and binge watch anime and drama series.
