NITV unveils Wednesday Night Sport Night with revamped midweek line-up
National Indigenous Television (NITV) is consolidating its flagship sports programming under a new weekly banner, announcing Wednesday Night Sport Night as a dedicated midweek destination for First Nations-led coverage and commentary.
The programming shift will see Over The Black Dot move from its current Tuesday slot to Wednesday evenings from March 4 at 9:30pm, anchoring the refreshed line-up. The change is designed to establish a consistent appointment for audiences seeking rugby league discussion from a First Nations perspective.
Joining the schedule the same night is PBR 2026 – Unleash The Beast, which premieres at 8:30pm. The network’s AFL program, Inside the Huddle, will follow from March 11 at 10:00pm, expanding the midweek offering.
Over The Black Dot
From Wednesday March 4 at 9:30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand, Over The Black Dot returns for its 10th season.
Described as the longest-running Indigenous NRL television program, the series is hosted by former NRL player and proud Anaiwan man Dean Widders. He is joined by dual International Timana Tahu; Bo de la Cruz, a descendant of the Gudjula and Erubian peoples and a multi-award-winning touch, rugby union and rugby league player; and former NRL player and Dunghutti man Beau Champion.
The program examines the intersection of rugby league, culture and community, featuring analysis, interviews and panel discussions. It highlights the role of the game in Indigenous Australia and addresses issues affecting the sport both on and off the field.
Inside the Huddle
Inside the Huddle begins on Wednesday March 11 at 10:00pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.
The AFL-focused program centres on First Nations players and emerging talent, combining match previews with guest interviews and discussion of the game’s broader cultural impact.
The hosting line-up includes three-time premiership Lion Chris Johnson, Megan Waters, and a rotating co-host described as a “star on the rise”. The program features conversations with high-profile guests about career milestones, cultural heritage and personal experiences within the AFL system.
PBR 2026 – Unleash The Beast
PBR 2026 – Unleash The Beast premieres Wednesday March 4 at 8:30pm on NITV and SBS On Demand.
The series follows professional bull riders competing across American cities in pursuit of championship points and the PBR World Championship title. The 2026 season showcases riders facing elite bulls as part of a tour format in which results contribute to the overall standings.
Additional 2026 coverage
Beyond its Wednesday programming block, NITV has also confirmed two major sporting broadcasts for 2026.
In April, the network will air the 2026 National Indigenous Cricket Championships (NICC) from Great Barrier Reef Stadium at Harrup Park in Mackay, QLD.
Over the October Long Weekend, NITV will again broadcast the 2026 Koori Knockout live and exclusive from King Park Sports Complex, Raymond Terrace in Port Stephens, NSW.
By bringing its rugby league and AFL programs together under a single midweek banner, NITV is positioning Wednesday nights as a consistent hub for First Nations sport storytelling and analysis.
