The Kiwis take on Australia’s Kangaroos today in Sydney, in the opening match of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
The Rugby League World Cup is held every few years, bringing together the best rugby league teams from around the globe. Kick-off at Allianz Stadium is 8.05pm Sydney time, which is 10.05pm here in New Zealand. The Kangaroos are the defending champions, so it’s a tough start for the Kiwis.
New Zealand’s squad is coached by former Warriors star Stacey Jones and captained by James Fisher-Harris, with Joseph Tapine as his deputy. Three players will wear the Kiwis jersey for the very first time: fullback Kalyn Ponga, centre Dane Gagai, and utility player Jacob Laban. Star halfback Jahrome Hughes also returns to the side after recovering from injury.
“We’re very excited for this World Cup campaign,” said Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones. “I’m confident in this squad.”
After today’s opener, the Kiwis play Cook Islands in Christchurch on 25 October, then Fiji on the Gold Coast on 31 October. The tournament finishes with the Grand Final in Brisbane on 15 November.
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