Hughes returns after injury layoff
Jahrome Hughes has rejoined the New Zealand Kiwis after missing the past two campaigns through injury. The five-eighth said he has dreamed of wearing the black and white jersey since childhood and that time away made him realise he cannot take it for granted. He last appeared for the Kiwis in the 2023 Pacific Championships final, a 30-0 win over Australia. Hughes described the last couple of years as tough, with different injuries preventing him from playing and causing him to miss camps. Now one of the older players, he said he felt like a little kid coming back in.[S1]
Hughes said the current camp has a similar feel to the 2023 group, with strong leaders and captain James Fisher-Harris guiding the team. He added that he is looking forward to another good campaign. The Kiwis will open their World Cup against the defending champion Kangaroos on Thursday night in Newcastle.[S1]
Inspired by 2008 and aiming to inspire
Hughes recalled watching the 2008 World Cup final as a young teenager, when New Zealand stunned Australia 34-20 to claim their first and only world cup crown. That Australian side, defending at home, included Billy Slater, Greg Inglis, Israel Folau, Darren Lockyer and Johnathan Thurston and had won six consecutive world cups since 1975. Hughes said that if the Kiwis could lift the trophy at the end of this World Cup, it would be truly special for the children back home in New Zealand and all the supporters, especially given the growth of the game there. Just as Benji Marshall inspired him during that 2008 triumph, Hughes hopes to inspire the next generation as the Kiwis return to Australia 18 years on.[S1]
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New faces and a calm coach
The Kiwis squad has been boosted by the additions of Kalyn Ponga and Dane Gagai, who were cleared to play for New Zealand under new international eligibility laws. Those laws previously prevented players who had represented a tier one nation other than Australia if selected for State of Origin. Hughes said it was a big thing to learn that both wanted to play for New Zealand and that their presence has lifted everyone. He rated Ponga among the best fullbacks he has played with, alongside Billy Slater, Ryan Papenhuyzen and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, and praised his experience and qualities.[S1]
The upcoming campaign is also the first time Hughes will play under Kiwis coach Stacey Jones. Hughes said Jones brings a calm head and that nothing seems to stress him, which helps the team stay calm. He added that Jones simplifies things for the players, which is his biggest attribute and makes everyone's job easier.[S1]
