The NRL has enjoyed a victory in round one of the code war over the PNG Chiefs name, with a judge turning down a bid by New Zealand Rugby for an urgent injunction after hearing that it could harm the expansion team’s efforts to attract players ahead of its debut season in 2028. Chris Barrett

Kalyn Ponga suffered a broken arm on his sparkling Kiwis debut as they were narrowly beaten by the Kangaroos in a thrilling World Cup opener. Stuff sports reporters

There was a time when Test matches were rugby league's biggest, best and bloodiest spectacles, and last night's World Cup opener between Australia and New Zealand was a reminder of those days. 

NRL champion ‘Marky Mark’ will play for either Australia or the Wallabies at next year’s World Cup. Christy Doran

Australia and New Zealand have set a high standard for the 17th edition of the Rugby League World Cup, opening the 2026 tournament with an all-time classic. Here are the quick hits from the opening match. 

We want your take on how each of the Kiwis performed against Kangaroos. Stuff sports reporters

The first match of the tournament lived up to the hype – and then some. Andrew Voerman

Follow live coverage of the first match of the Rugby League World Cup from Allianz Stadium in Sydney. Andrew Voerman and Joseph Pearson

The Rugby League World Cup begins with a blockbuster between powerhouse nations Australia and New Zealand. Follow live.

The referee says relentless scrutiny and criticism eventually manifested physically, forcing him to rethink how he managed pressure and sought support. Ross Karl