The New Zealand Warriors will face the Newcastle Knights in the 2026 NRL Semi-Final, scheduled for Sunday, September 20, at 6:05 PM local time in Auckland (2:05 AM ET, 7:05 AM BST, 4:05 PM AEST). This match is the second semi-final of the weekend, with the winner set to face the top-ranked Penrith Panthers in the preliminary finals the following week. The Warriors finished second in the regular season but struggled with injuries in their previous qualifying final against the Dolphins, which they lost. The Knights, under coach Justin Holbrook, have bounced back from a poor performance last year, securing a top-eight finish in 2026 and aiming to reach their first preliminary final in 13 years. They will also be looking to avenge their two losses to the Warriors this season.
The match will be broadcast on multiple platforms across different regions. In Australia, fans can watch on free-to-air Channel 9 or the 9Now streaming service. In the United States, Fox One will air the game, with a free three-day trial available for new users. In the UK, Sky Sports Mix will provide coverage, while in New Zealand, Sky Sport NZ will broadcast it on Sky Sport 1. Canadian viewers can watch on Sportsnet or Sportsnet+. For those outside the region, a Virtual Private Network (VPN) can help access regional streaming services. NordVPN is a recommended option, offering access to platforms like 9Now and Watch NRL, which is available globally except in Australia, New Zealand, the Pacific Islands, and other selected regions.
Both teams have confirmed their expected starting lineups for the semi-final. The Warriors will field players like Taine Tuaupiki, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, and Chanel Harris-Tavita, with replacements including Sam Healey and Morgan Gannon. The Knights’ lineup includes Kalyn Ponga, Dane Gagai, and Tyson Frizell, with substitutes such as Harrison Graham and Pasami Saulo ready to come on if needed. The match promises to be a high-stakes encounter, with both teams aiming to advance to the next stage of the playoffs.
This semi-final represents a significant moment for both teams. The Warriors, coming off a second-place finish, will be eager to overcome their recent injury challenges and make a strong statement. The Knights, on the other hand, are looking to capitalize on their improved performance this season and end their long wait for a preliminary final appearance. The outcome of this match will have major implications for the rest of the NRL playoffs, setting up a crucial clash with the dominant Penrith Panthers in the following week.
NRL 2026 Semi-Final: Warriors vs Knights Streaming Options and Match Details
AI-rewritten from original reportingHow it works
nrlwarriorsknightssemifinal2026auckland



