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World Cup winner Thomas Leuluai will represent the Kiwis one more time before ending a glittering 20-year first grade rugby league career.

The 37-year-old Wigan Warriors captain confirmed on Wednesday (Thursday NZ time) that he will retire at the end of the year to join the Super League club’s coaching staff.

But Leuluai – New Zealand’s starting hooker in their one and only Rugby League World Cup grand final win in 2008 – will lead the Kiwis out one final time in a World Cup warmup game against the Leeds Rhinos on October 8.

The son of 1980s Kiwis star James Leuluai believes it is time to end a career that began in 2003 with the New Zealand Warriors.

“When players and teammates around me retired, I often wondered how they knew it was the right time to do so, but I can honestly say I feel so content with my own decision and it’s true what they say, you know when it’s time,’’ Leuluai wrote in a letter to fans on Wigan’s website.

“It’s been an incredible journey, back in 2003 when I made my debut for the New Zealand Warriors, I never thought I’d be writing this 20 years later.

Leuluai has chalked up 448 first grade games in the NRL and Super League and also played 40 tests for the Kiwis between the 2003 and 2017.

Wigan Warriors' former Kiwis star Thomas Leuluai is to retire after a 20-year career

He was the youngest player to represent the New Zealand Warriors when he made his debut at 18 in 2003, and became the Kiwis’ second youngest test player that same year.

Leuluai became the last of the World Cup winning Kiwis to play for a top-tier club after Benji Marshall retired at the end of 2001.

Noted for his silky skills, strategic brain and tough tackling, Leuluai had 85 games during two stints in Auckland with the Warriors, from 2003 to 2004 and again from 2013 to 2016 and represented the Kiwis at three World Cups.

As well as his World Cup winner’s medal, Leuluai won two Super League titles with Wigan, two Challenge Cup crowns and three League Leaders Shields as minor premiers.

Kiwis great Thomas Leuluai made a shock return from a knee injury for Wigan's grand final win over Huddersfield.

He first played in Super League in 2005 with the London Broncos and, after a short stint with Harlequins moved to Wigan, his wife Natalie’s hometown.

Leuluai became a crowd favourite at the famous English club from 2007 to 2012 and again from 2017 after returning from New Zealand.

He won the Harry Sunderland Medal as player of the match when Wigan won the 2010 Super League grand final.

Long regarded as a potential coach, Leuluai will become an assistant-coach to Wigan head coach Matt Peet in 2023, working alongside his former teammate Sean O’Loughlin.

The Kiwi has been dogged by injury this season, but came back to play a telling role in Wigan’s Challenge Cup victory in May.

He said he felt “incredibly grateful for everything that Rugby League has given me’’.

“There have been wonderful times on the field, and amazing times off it. I’ve loved them all but without a doubt the best thing Rugby League has given me is the friendships I have made. “

He thanked “all the coaches, trainers, physios, doctors and office staff that have helped me along my journey’’, and also his family, including dad James and mum Lenore, his siblings, wife Natalie and their three daughters Wynter-Rose, Storm and Romi, plus his agent, former Kiwis prop Peter Brown.

“I have to give special mention to the Wigan fans that have taken me in like one of their own, you are what make this Club such a special team to play for, it has been a privilege to represent your team and your town,’’ Leuluai wrote.

“To all my teammates I can’t thank you enough – I’ve loved going to battle alongside you all. I’ve also loved all the great times we have had off the field, there are so many great memories that I will forever cherish.”

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It was a classic trans-Tasman grudge match at Eden Park, with the Kiwi Ferns and Jillaroos battling it out for 31 minutes before any points were put on the board. 

Australia’s Jessica Sergis leapt to touch the ball down in the corner, with the try converted by Jesse Southwell. The teams headed into the sheds 6-0.

The Jillaroos Abbi Church found the line again early in the second half, taking their lead to 10-0.

Bringing the Kiwi Ferns back into contention, Annessa Biddle put the pedal down, leaving behind the Australians in a thrilling 80m runaway try, though it remained unconverted by Raecene McGregor.

One try wasn’t enough for the Kiwi Ferns, and a strong defensive effort from both sides saw the score remain unchanged for the rest of the second half, with the final whistle blowing on a score of 10-4.

Mele Hufanga was again a stand-out player for the New Zealanders, and Co-Captain Georgia Hale showed her consistent form, making a game-high 50 tackles, along with 100 run metres.

The Kiwi Ferns and Jillaroos now prepare to head to Sydney for the Pacific Cup Final at Commbank Stadium on Sunday 9 November.

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The New Zealand Kiwis have delivered a statement performance at Eden Park, powering past Tonga XIII 40–14 in front of a roaring crowd of more than 38,000 – the largest attendance for a Kiwis Test in over a decade.

The atmosphere was electric from the opening whistle, with both nations’ colours flooding the stands. Tongan supporters brought their trademark passion and noise, met equally by black jerseys through out the crowd and flags from the Kiwi faithful. Every tackle, kick, and try was met with thunderous energy, turning Eden Park into a true celebration of Pacific rugby league.

The Kiwis were clinical from the outset, running in four tries before halftime to take a commanding 24–2 lead. Dylan Brown starred in the halves with a double, while Jamayne Isaako’s accurate boot kept the scoreboard ticking over. Captain James Fisher-Harris led from the front, setting the tone with his physicality and relentless effort through the middle.

Tonga battled bravely in the second half and found moments of spark through the likes of Daniel Tupou and Jason Taumalolo, but New Zealand’s defensive structure held firm. Each Kiwi interchange made an impact, with the bench adding energy and intent to close out the match in style.

For NZRL, the result marks more than just a win  it’s a reflection of the growing strength and pride in the national programme. The team’s professionalism, unity, and precision shone under pressure, reinforcing their status as one of international rugby league’s powerhouse nations.

Following the match, fans were treated to a special live performance by Josh Tatofi, who took the stage under the Eden Park lights. His soulful set capped off an unforgettable night that celebrated culture, competition, and connection — a true showcase of what rugby league means to Aotearoa and the Pacific.

The Kiwis will now shift focus to the Pacific Championships Final in Sydney, carrying momentum, belief, and the backing of an entire nation behind them.

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Injuries have forced late changes to the New Zealand Kiwis’ lineup for today’s Pacific Championships clash against Tonga at Eden Park (6.05pm kickoff).

Nelson Asofa-Solomona and Sebastian Kris have both been ruled out after picking up leg injuries in training this week.

Kris was named to make his second Test appearance replacing the injured Ronaldo Mulitalo on the left wing while Asofa-Solomona was listed in jersey #18 when the team was selected on Tuesday.

Their withdrawals leave the Kiwis with the bare game day complement of 19 players.

With Kris out, centre Casey McLean – who has scored six tries in first two Tests – has been shifted to the left wing where he made his Test debut against Papua New Guinea in Sydney last year.

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad is moved from fullback into the centres and Keano Kini will start at fullback. Scott Sorensen has been confirmed as 18^th man with Zach Dockar-Clay 19^th man.

‍PACIFIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025

NEW ZEALAND v TONGA

EDEN PARK

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND

SUNDAY 2 NOVEMBER 2025

20  Keano Kini
2  Jamayne Isaako
3  Matthew Timoko
1  Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad
4  Casey McLean
6  Dylan Brown
7  Kieran Foran
8  James Fisher-Harris (C)
9  Phoenix Crossland
10  Moses Leota
11  Briton Nikora
12  Isaiah Papali’i
13  Joseph Tapine
14  Te Maire Martin
15  Naufahu Whyte
16  Erin Clark
17  Xavier Willison
19  Scott Sorensen
21  Zach Dockar-Clay

Coach: Stacey Jones

An unchanged lineup has been named for the New Zealand Kiwis’ clash against Toa Sāmoa in the Pacific Championships final at CommBank Stadium in Sydney on Sunday (4.05pm kickoff local time; 6.05pm NZT).

It’s the same combination that put together one of the most impressive performances in New Zealand’s Test history to eliminate Tonga from the competition at Eden Park on Sunday.

The final will have a special edge for the Kiwis with the remarkable 35-year-old Kieran Foran (Kiwi #757) bringing down the curtain on his exceptional 17-season career.

Making his NRL debut as an 18-year-old with Manly Warringah in June 2009, he was handed his maiden Test appearance against England later that year and will finish with his 34^th international on Sunday to go alongside the 318 first-grade games he has played for five different clubs.

Foran was used at hooker when he helped the Kiwis to win the Pacific title with a record 30-0 win over the Kangaroos in Hamilton two years ago but was ruled out of last year's campaign with injury.

He’ll again be teamed up in the halves with Newcastle-bound Dylan Brown who has been named the man of the match in each of the Kiwis’ two games in the series.

Brown scored a try and had two try assists as the New Zealanders prevailed 24-18 over Toa Sāmoa in a torrid round one contest at Go Media Stadium on October 19.

Last Sunday he scored a double and had two more try assists in the Kiwis’ convincing 40-14 win over Tonga.

The key to the success lay in the middle of the park where the New Zealand forwards set about domnating the Tongans with six of them topping 100 metres while Tonga had just three. Six of the Kiwis’ backs also ran for more than 100 metres, replacement fullback Keano Kini the best of them with 199 metres.

In reaching the final for the second time in the competition’s three-year existence, the Kiwis have been forced to overcome adversity losing four players from the original squad selected.

Hooker Jeremy Marshall-King (wrist) and winger Ronaldo Mulitalo (knee) were both injured in the Toa Sāmoa match while prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona and outside back Sebastian Kris both succumbed to calf injuries in field sessions last week.

Added to the extended bench this week is Brisbane premiership-winning winger Josiah Karapani, brought into the squad today for the injured Kris.

PACIFIC CHAMPIONSHIPS FINAL

NEW ZEALAND KIWIS v SAMOA

COMMBANK STADIUM, SYDNEY

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2025 

The Kiwi Ferns will face the Jillaroos once again this Sunday in the 2025 Pacific Championships Final at CommBank Stadium in Sydney, a rematch loaded with intensity and tactical intrigue after Australia’s narrow 10–4 win at Eden Park.

Head coach Ricky Henry’s side knows what’s required. Their defensive structure held strong for long stretches in the earlier clash, but unforced errors and missed completions proved costly. The focus now shifts to composure, patience and discipline under pressure.

Recent form and lessons learned

Australia’s ability to control possession and win repeat sets gave them a platform in Auckland. New Zealand matched them physically and actually won the yardage battle in the second half, but turnovers in critical zones halted momentum.

Raecene McGregor and Page McGregor are again expected to steer the Kiwi Ferns attack, supported by Annessa Biddle and Abby Roache on the edges. Henry has emphasised set completions and quick-play-the-ball pressure as keys to unlocking the Jillaroos defence.

“We’ve been in every contest with them,” Henry said. “Our challenge is finishing those moments when we’ve earned field position. The energy and intent are there, now it’s about execution.”

Tactical outlook

Edge control: The Jillaroos fullback Abbi Church impressed with nearly 200 metres and a try in the previous meeting. The Ferns will look to limit her early touches and kick more strategically to corners.
Middle rotation: Georgia Hale, Mele Hufanga and Amber Hall lead a forward pack that thrives on physicality. Their go-forward will be vital in establishing ruck dominance and isolating Australia’s slower defenders.
Composure: The Ferns error rate, which reached double figures in Auckland, will be a focal metric. Keeping that to single digits could be the difference between falling short and lifting the trophy.

What’s at stake

The Jillaroos have held the upper hand in recent years, but the margins have tightened significantly. The Kiwi Ferns defensive steel, coupled with improved line speed and communication, gives them a genuine shot at breaking Australia’s hold on the title.

This final is more than a rematch. It is an opportunity for the Kiwi Ferns to stamp their growth under Henry’s leadership and close the international season on their terms.

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Pacific Championships Final
Sunday 9 November 2025
CommBank Stadium, Sydney
Kiwi Ferns v Jillaroos
Kick-off 4.00 pm NZT

Last week the New Zealand Wheel Kiwis competed in the Inaugural LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships, which took place from 31 October to 2 November 2025 at the Gold Coast Sports & Leisure Centre.

This landmark national event saw seven state and affiliate teams go head-to-head in a thrilling round-robin competition for the first-ever title. Across three action-packed days, spectators witnessed the speed, skill, and physical intensity that make Wheelchair Rugby League one of the most exciting adaptations of the game.

The Wheel Kiwis notched up three impressive wins against Queensland White, Victoria, and the Affiliated States, and a close fourth only narrowly losing to ACT by a try. The Championship provided an important opportunity for the Kiwis to build depth and expand their player base ahead of the 2026 World Cup, as they blooded several debutants including Pele Sulusi, Mitch Stone, Jack Brown, and Wayne Chase.

The Wheel Kiwis finished the tournament with pride and momentum for the future. Their strong performances and positive spirit on and off the court earned them respect from both players and fans. As they now turn their focus towards the 2026 World Cup, the team is inspired, united, and determined to continue growing the game in Aotearoa and representing New Zealand on the world stage.

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Wheel Kiwis 2025 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championships Results:

Game 1, Friday 31 October: Wheel Kiwis 24 - 14 Queensland White

Game 2, Friday 31 October: Wheel Kiwis 10 - 24 Queensland Maroon

Game 3, Saturday 1 November: Wheel Kiwis 00 - 18 New South Wales

Game 4, Saturday 1 November: Wheel Kiwis 18 - 22 Australian Capital Territory

Game 5, Saturday 1 November: Wheel Kiwis 50 - 06 Victoria

Game 6, Sunday 2 November: Wheel Kiwis 36 - 06 Affiliated States 

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The Kiwi Ferns have named their star-studded side to battle the Jillaroos for the Pacific Cup this Sunday at Commbank Stadium.

The Kiwi Ferns are hungry for a win over the Australians after their recent close encounter at Eden Park, which had only a converted try in it. This sees versatile former Sevens athletes Tysha Ikenasio and Tyla King re-enter the lineup to inject further speed to the backline.

Head Coach Ricky Henry said: “We are glad to have another crack at the Jillaroos this week. That last match was a tough battle, but I was proud of how the team performed. We need to get those little things right to keep the pressure on in the final.

“It is unfortunate to have Lei [Tufuga] unavailable this week, but glad to have her with us supporting the team as she follows her HIA protocols.”

Henry has made a few changes to the team with Ikenasio replacing Leianne Tufuga on the wing, and five-eighth Ashleigh Quinlan earning a start after two strong impact performances off the bench. Shakira Baker will then return to take the 18 jersey as backup, whilst newly capped Shaniece Monschau gets another opportunity.

Head Coach Ricky Henry’s commitment to developing this squad since the last World Cup is apparent, with only four new faces in this team from the one that last defeated the Australians on their home soil in 2023: Ikenasio, Shanice Monschau, Ivana Lauitiiti, and Shakira Baker, who were standouts in NRLW this season.

This continuity and experience, which has been building for the last couple of years, may prove the difference in what is sure to be a tense final.

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Kiwi Ferns team to face the Jillaroos in the Pacific Cup Final:

1. Apii Nicholls
2. Tysha Ikenasio 
3. Mele Hufunga 
4. Abigail Roache
5. Shanice Parker
6. Ashleigh Quinlan
7. Raecene McGregor
8. Tiana Davison
9. Brooke Anderson
10. Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa
11. Annessa Biddle
12. Otesa Pule
13. Georgia Hale
14. Tyla King
15. Shaniece Monschau
16. Alexis Tauaneai
17. Ivana Lauitiiti
18. Shakira Baker

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Unavailable for selection: Leianna Tufuga (HIA protocols)

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At just 21 years old, Keano Kini has already faced one of the toughest tests of his career — and life.

Only eight months ago, the Gold Coast Titans fullback was told he was just millimetres away from permanent paralysis after suffering a serious neck injury. What could have been the end of his rugby league journey instead became a powerful turning point.

Now, the Ōtāhuhu Leopards junior is set to take the field for the New Zealand Kiwis in Sunday’s Pacific Championships Final against Toa Sāmoa at CommBank Stadium — a moment he describes as a blessing.

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“At the start of the year, I didn’t think I’d be here,” Kini said. “It’s been a challenging year, but it was meant to happen. I’ve learned so much about myself and my game — it’s made me more grateful. I had a baby, got married, and a lot of good things came out of a tough situation.”

Kini made a remarkable return to the NRL in Round 24, playing the final four games of the season for the Titans — enough to earn selection in Stacey Jones’ Kiwis squad.

The young fullback repaid that faith in last week’s victory over Tonga at Eden Park, crossing for a try, running 199 metres, and breaking three tackles in a standout performance that helped propel the Kiwis into the Final.

“It’s going to be a completely different game this weekend,” he said. “I didn’t get the chance to play against my other culture, Sāmoa, in the first match — so I’m really looking forward to this one. We want to bring that trophy back home to New Zealand.”

Sunday’s clash will also mark a changing of the guard for the Kiwis, with veteran halfback Kieran Foran playing his final game. For young players like Kini, Casey McLean, and Naufahu Whyte, it’s a chance to carry the torch into a new era for New Zealand Rugby League.

All three have chosen to represent Aotearoa despite eligibility for other nations — a decision Kini hopes will inspire the next generation.

“You see a lot of boys representing Tonga or Sāmoa, but it’s awesome to see young guys proud to wear the Kiwis jersey,” Kini said. “That’s what we need — more young talent coming through, representing our country with pride. I’m proud to be one of them.”

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The New Zealand Kiwis have crowned their Pacific Championships campaign with a 36–14 victory over Toa Samoa at CommBank Stadium, delivering the perfect send-off for veteran playmaker Kieran Foran in his final Test match.

Trailing 14–6 at halftime, the Kiwis stormed home with 30 unanswered points in a dominant second half. Foran was instrumental in the comeback, combining brilliantly with Dylan Brown, who produced a standout performance featuring three try assists, 10 tackle breaks and 181 running metres.

Isaiah Papali’i crossed for two tries, while Casey McLean, Erin Clark, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad also found the line. Clark’s powerful run early in the second half shifted momentum, before Papali’i’s second try in the 76th minute sealed the result.

Fullback Keano Kini continued his breakout tournament with 125 metres, six tackle breaks and four offloads, while Naufahu Whyte made a huge impact off the bench with 194 metres and seven tackle breaks.

The win secures New Zealand’s second Pacific Cup title in three seasons and confirms their status as a leading contender ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Head coach Stacey Jones praised his side’s resilience and composure under pressure, noting the leadership of Foran and the team’s ability to respond after a tough first half.

It was a night of pride and celebration for New Zealand Rugby League, closing out the Pacific Championships with silverware and a fitting farewell for one of the Kiwis’ most respected players.

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As seen on intrl.sport/article

The Kiwis' Dylan Brown and Joseph Tapine, and Kiwi Ferns' Apii Nicholls have been named as finalists for the 2025 IRL Golden Boot awards following the Pacific Championships.

Dylan Brown, who will join Newcastle next season on a 10-year contract, was a standout for the Kiwis in their successful Pacific Cup campaign, winning the tournament for the second time in three years by beating Samoa in the final with Brown earning Player of the Match.

Tapine, the Canberra Raiders captain, was consistently one of the Kiwis' best forwards and has again made the Golden Boot shortlist after being narrowly edged out by team-mate James Fisher-Harris for the award in 2023 when the Kiwis inflicted a record 30-0 defeat of Australia in the final.

Kiwi Ferns fullback Apii Nicholls was one of the best female players on the international stage in 2025, leading the Kiwi Ferns from the back in a stunning comeback win over Fetū Samoa, and two losses to the current world-champion Jillaroos.

Kiwis Joseph Manu and James Fisher-Harris were consecutive Golden Boot winners in 2022 and 2023, alongside Kiwi Ferns co-captains Raecene McGregor in 2022 and Georgia Hale in 2023.

The IRL Golden Boot is awarded to the best player in sanctioned rugby league international matches each year.

Read more on intrl.sport/article

Kieran Foran’s final match on New Zealand soil was a fitting send-off for one of the Kiwis’ most loyal servants. The veteran half guided New Zealand to a dominant win over Tonga at Eden Park, his last chance to represent Aotearoa in front of home fans before closing out his international career in the Pacific Championships Final in Sydney this weekend.

Foran’s leadership has been a steadying force throughout the Kiwis’ campaign. Since making his debut in 2009, he has worn the black and white with pride across 34 Tests, including the 2014 Four Nations triumph and several World Cup campaigns. His professionalism and humility have earned universal respect among teammates and fans alike.

Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones said Foran’s impact on the team went far beyond his on-field performances.

“He’s been a massive influence, calm, selfless, and always putting the team first,” Jones said. “Kieran has helped set the standard for what it means to be a Kiwi. The younger players look up to him.”

Sunday’s final at CommBank Stadium will mark Foran’s last outing in the famous jersey, a milestone that blends emotion with opportunity. While it is the end of an era for one of New Zealand Rugby League’s greats, it is also the beginning of a new generation, with emerging talents like Keano Kini, Casey McLean, and Naufahu Whyte carrying the torch forward.

Foran says he is savouring every moment of his final campaign.

“It has been a privilege every time I have pulled on this jersey,” he said. “To finish my last game in New Zealand at Eden Park, and to have one more in Sydney, is really special. I just want to enjoy the week and finish the right way for the team and our supporters.”

This Sunday, Foran will lead the Kiwis into battle one last time, a proud farewell to a career built on service, resilience, and devotion to the black and white.