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

The Rugby League World Cup exists in a constant state of change, but ahead of the tournament opener between Australia and New Zealand, the much-maligned tournament can prove less can be more. 

The Kiwi Ferns forward says choosing New Zealand has shaped her as both a player and a person as she prepares for her second World Cup. Jonty Dine of RNZ

Dane Gagai will become the second-oldest test debutant in New Zealand rugby league history when he joins fellow first-time Kiwi Kalyn Ponga to play the Kangaroos. Stuff sports reporters

Premiership-winning coach Trent Robinson is helping Les Tricolores again at the Rugby League World Cup, and he hopes a potential NRL investment in Super League could boost the sport in France.

Isaah Yeo’s comments suggest Reece Walsh could retain the No 1 jersey for Australia’s World Cup opener against New Zealand. Zachary Gates

Naufahu Whyte, James Fisher-Harris, Moses Leota and Joseph Tapine give the Kiwis a formidable middle for their World Cup opener. Christy Doran

NZR says it has been "shadow-boxing" in attempts to resolve the trademark dispute, while the NRL argues the urgent injunction bid comes after months of silence. Dana Johannsen of RNZ