Cook Islands turn to NRL experience
The Cook Islands have named a squad blending NRL and Super League players for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which starts in Australia next week. Former Kangaroo Valentine Holmes will make his debut for the Aitu, joining co-captains KL Iro and Marata Niukore. The squad also includes NRL grand finalists Rhys Dakin and Makahesi Makatoa of the Sydney Roosters, plus Reuben Porter of St George Illawarra Dragons. Head coach Karmichael Hunt revealed the squad on Tuesday.[S1][S2]
The Cook Islands are in Pool A with Australia, Fiji and New Zealand, a group rated the pool of death, with only the top two reaching the semi-finals. They qualified by beating South Africa last year. Their schedule begins against Fiji in Newcastle on Sunday, 18 October, followed by New Zealand in Christchurch on 25 October and Australia in Townsville. Brendan Piakura is unavailable as he deals with a career-threatening string of concussions that sidelined him at the Brisbane Broncos during the second half of the NRL season.[S1]
PNG mix youth and experience
Papua New Guinea head coach Jason Demetriou named the Kumuls squad on Tuesday evening, combining NRL, Super League and Hunters players. Departing Parramatta Eels forward Jack de Belin and debutant outside back Josh Feledy lead the NRL contingent, which also includes North Queensland Cowboys duo Robert Derby and Zac Laybutt, Manly Sea Eagles' Feledy and Luca Moretti of the Eels. Hostplus Cup players include Dudley Dotoi of the Townsville Blackhawks, Central Queensland Capras pair Zev John and Nixon Putt, and Brisbane Tigers' Sylvester Namo. Hunters duo Sanny Wabo and Khaiya Waiembi are also included.[S1]
Super League experience comes from Demetriou's London Broncos club, who contribute five players: Robert Mathias, Morea Morea Jnr, Finley Glare, Gairo Voro and Epel Kapinias. Leigh Leopards are represented by Liam Horne and Edwin Ipape, while retiring Hull KR forward Rhyse Martin features for the last time. St Helens centre Nene Macdonald, a long-time Kumuls mainstay, is also included. A major setback is the absence of Alex Johnston, the NRL's greatest-ever try-scorer, who has been injured and did not complete the NRL season for South Sydney.[S1]
PNG open their campaign against Lebanon in Port Moresby on Saturday, 17 October, before facing Samoa, with both games in Port Moresby. They meet England in their final pool game in Wollongong. The Kumuls will look to their blend of NRL, Super League and local Hunters talent to navigate a pool that also includes England and Samoa.[S1]
