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

Ahead of the women's Rugby League World Cup, the dominance of the Jillaroos looms like a spectre.

All you need to know about the Rugby League World Cup’s blockbuster opener between the Kiwis and the Kangaroos Andrew Voerman and Joseph Pearson

Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters raises eyebrows by choosing the Broncos star at fullback over James Tedesco for Thursday night's clash against the Kiwis, outlining his reasons for overlooking the 2026 Clive Churchill Medallist.

In a show of cross-code solidarity, the All Blacks were on hand to lend their support to the Kiwis as the New Zealand footballing teams prepared for their respective clashes with Australia. Adrian Proszenko