Benny Elias

Born in Tripoli, Lebanon, on November 15, 1963, Benjamin ‘Benny’ Elias became a legendary figure in Australian rugby league. His career with the Balmain Tigers spanned from 1982 to 1994, where he played 235 matches. Elias was recognized for his innovative and aggressive style of play as a hooker, a role he transformed within the sport. Early in his career, he represented Australia at a schoolboy level in 1979 and 1981 while attending Holy Cross College, Ryde, before quickly establishing himself in senior rugby.

Elias made significant contributions to representative rugby league, playing 19 State of Origin matches for New South Wales between 1985 and 1994, and captaining the Blues in 1990 and 1991. He also earned six Test caps for Australia between 1985 and 1990, participating in the 1986 and 1990 Kangaroo tours. A key player in Balmain’s Grand Final appearances in 1988 and 1989, his career was marked by consistent performance, earning him the Dally M Hooker of the Year award three times in 1985, 1988, and 1992. Elias was inducted into the National Rugby League Hall of Fame in 2024, cementing his legacy as a pivotal player.

Post-retirement, Elias has carved out a successful career in business and media. He graduated from the University of Western Sydney and became active in the retail mobile phone industry. Elias has also served as a rugby league radio commentator and a pundit for SBS Television. His business interests include sitting on the Wests Tigers Board and the advisory board of Perth Glory FC. His autobiography, ‘Balmain Benny,’ published towards the end of his playing career, reflects on notable events both on and off the field.