Tackle Count: All you need to know as the NRL kicks off again

The NRL season re-starts on Thursday night and, to celebrate, we have launched a new dedicated rugby league newsletter called Tackle Count.

While the games will be played behind closed doors, our reporters will provide coverage that you can't get elsewhere: behind-the-scenes content, one-on-one exclusives and an insight into backroom moves.

To kick off the Tackle Count, NRL legend Laurie Daley gives us an insight into all eight games this weekend.

Knights skipper Mitchell Pearce joins our Tooheys New Podcast to chat about the upcoming season and, speaking of captains, Jarrod Croker from the Raiders gives us his thoughts on Sharks centre Bronson Xerri's future regardless of his ASADA outcome.

While we're down in the nation's capital, one civic leader in the ACT has expressed his doubts about NRL crowds returning by July.

On the coach's front, Newcastle boss Adam O'Brien explains why he is putting his faith in homegrown talent while Dragons coach Paul McGregor says his players must "perform or perish" for the remainder of the season.

Speaking of the Red V, we look at why St George Illawarra are on a redemption mission in 2020.

So join us as we begin the Tackle Count begins its journey. Buckle up: it's going to be a bumpy but fun ride.