Jazz Tevaga almost didn’t make it to this year’s World Cup.

The New Zealand Warriors are close to finalising a contract extension to a key member of their spine as the November 1 deadline slowly approaches.

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

The Australian Kangaroos produced a magnificent come from behind victory against New Zealand to kick off their 2026 World Cup campaign.

Australia and New Zealand have produced one of great World Cup matches of all time, with the home side recording a thrilling 24-22 win in the tournament opener.

Kalyn Ponga may have a broken arm, Reece Walsh chucked up his guts and Jack Bostock broke New Zealand hearts as Australia stormed home late to start its World Cup defence with an all-time epic victory at Allianz Stadium.

Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters has outlined his halves plan for next weekend’s fixture against Fiji with Mitch Moses set to miss some time with a leg injury.

Fears emerged New Zealand fullback Kalyn Ponga has fractured his arm and could miss the rest of the World Cup after he bravely played 20 minutes with the injury and scored two tries in a cracking battle with Reece Walsh.

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.