New Zealand fans will get the opportunity to watch the Kiwi Ferns play a warm-up match on home soil before they contest the Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2017, which kicks off in Sydney in exactly 100 days.
The Kiwi Ferns will fine-tune their World Cup preparations by playing New Zealand Maori Wahine Toa at Waikato Stadium ahead of the men’s RLWC2017 pool match between Samoa and Tonga on Saturday 4 November 2017.
Kiwi Ferns captain Sarina Fiso said: “This game against New Zealand Maori Wahine Toa will give the squad the best possible preparation for this year’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup as well as providing the opportunity to play in front of family and friends, which means so much to the team.” “It will also give us a taste of the Rugby League World Cup atmosphere before we head across to Australia,” she concluded.
New Zealand are co-hosts of the men’s tournament and will stage seven games of what will be the biggest rugby league event the country has ever hosted. The addition of the Kiwi Ferns and New Zealand Maori Wahine Toa contest only enhances this special occasion.
RLWC2017 New Zealand General Manager Andrea Nelson said: “It’s great to be able to give the Kiwi Ferns the opportunity to play on home soil in front of the New Zealand public before they travel across the Tasman for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.”
“With ticket prices starting from $45 for a family of four, it will be a great chance for fans to watch two games for a very affordable price,” she concluded.
The Kiwis Ferns have been drawn in Pool B of this year’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup and will play Canada (November 16), Cook Islands (November 19) and Papua New Guinea (November 22) in the pool stages.
Chairman of New Zealand Maori Rugby League John Devonshire said: “It’s a fantastic opportunity for the New Zealand Maori Wahine Toa team to be playing on such a huge occasion with a great atmosphere.
“It’s also a great chance for our players to test themselves and help the Kiwi Ferns prepare for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup.”
Previously part of the user-pays Festival of World Cups, this year’s tournament will be first time the Women’s Rugby League World Cup has been held as a standalone event, with the pool matches to be played at Southern Cross Group Stadium in Cronulla (Sydney) as triple-headers on November 16, 19 and 22 with the semi-finals to be played as a double-header on November 26.
The tournament will see both the men’s and women’s finals played as a double-header in Brisbane on 2 December 2017 – the first time two World Cup winners will be crowned on the same day, on the same stage.
Australia, Canada, Cook Islands, England, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea will be the six teams to contest this year’s tournament.
Australia are the reigning champions with the Kiwi Ferns vying to win back the trophy they won in 2000, 2005 and 2008.
New Zealand Rugby League have named their New Zealand Resident 18s and Taurahere wider squads for their September 23 match-up.
The two sides will face off against each other in hopes of earning a spot in the New Zealand 18s team who will take on the Australian Schoolboys in late September.
The last time a NZ 18s fixture took place in 2015 the NZ Resident 18s were defeated by the Australian Schoolboys in both encounters.
This year presents the first opportunity for players at 18s level to wear the black jersey. The selection for this team will include not only the best of those residing in New Zealand (NZ Residents 18s), but also New Zealanders currently playing in Australia (Taurahere) to create a New Zealand 18s side that represents the best of New Zealand.
New Zealand 18s Head Coach Ezra Howe says the fixtures will further strengthen the NZRL pathways for those wanting to reach the pinnacle of rugby league in New Zealand.
“This is a great opportunity for the boys to put their best foot forward playing against Australia while enjoying being in an elite environment.
“Players like James Fisher-Harris who was part of the Taurahere programme when it first started back in 2014, show that these pathways provide a good foundation to then go on and represent New Zealand at the highest level.
“I know this fixture will see a good standard of football being played from both teams with many talented boys to take the field.
“Being a part of these programmes is just as rewarding for the coaching staff as it is for the players so I am thankful to NZRL for this opportunity,” he says.
Both sides will be cut down to 18-man squads by September 12 ahead of the fixture.
New Zealand Resident 18s v Taurahere Saturday 23 September Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland New Zealand Resident 18s wider squad: *last zone represented as per LeagueNet
Akarana: Chanel Harris-Tevita, Elijah Sufia, Emanuel Gerard Tuimavave, Javvier Pitovao, Lewis Afeaki, Lewis Sio, Matt Timoko, Reagan Mclennan, Soane Hufanga, Starford Toa, Tyler Slade, Vito Tevaga; Auckland Development: Tutuki Kamana-Pou; Counties: Asu Kepaoa, Dredin Sorenson-McGee, Israel Ogden, Keanu Laumati-Paki; Mid Central: Awatere Kiwara, Wesley Veikoso; Northland: Paul Turner; Southern: Daniel Sakisi, Jordan Riki, Seth Tauamiti; Upper Central: Hayze Perham, Sheldon Rogers.
Head Coach – Moehewa Armstrong Assistant Coach – Alan Ettles Manager – Ben Vaipaata Trainer – Marrin Haggie Physio – Ulima Tofi
Taurahere wider squad: Brisbane Broncos: Dre Ngatui-Woe; Canberra Raiders: Sebastian Kris; Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs: Lauchlan Talau, Tommy Talau; Cronulla Sharks: Cruise Topai-Aveai; Gold Coast Titans: Moeaki Fotuaika, Darius Farmer, Jackson Paulo, Reihana Marsh; Manly Sea Eagles: Semisi Kioa, Zaane Weatherall, Keith Titums, Mark Tepu-Smith; Newcastle Knights: Will Finau; North Queensland Cowboys: Murray Taulagi, Sean Mullany, Peter Hola; Parramatta Eels: Haze Dunster, Joseph Taipari, Oregan Kaufusi, Vallance Harris, John Fonua, Tui Afuola; Penrith Panthers: Sean Blore; South Sydney Rabbitohs: Mawene Hiroti, Tyrone Taukamo; St. George Illawarra Dragons: Steven Marsters ; Sydney Roosters: Baylee Bentley-Hape.
Head Coach – Rangi Hiroti Assistant Coach – Tim McIntyre Manager – Antony Bosley Trainer – Lee Paru Physio – David Close
Rugby league players and their supporters are in for an action packed season of fixtures ahead of the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
NZRL Fixtures include: National Secondary Schools Tournament, National Competition (Premiership & Championship), NZ Youth Teams, NZ Men’s Teams – details below
National Secondary Schools Tournament, Bruce Pulman Park, Auckland Monday 4 – Friday 8 September
New Zealand Secondary Schools v New South Wales Combined High Schools, Puketewhero Park, Rotorua, Wednesday October 4
New Zealand Secondary Schools v New South Wales Combined High Schools, Mt Smart Stadium, Auckland, Saturday, October 7
NZ Youth Teams
New Zealand Resident 18s v Taurahere Auckland Saturday 23 September
New Zealand 18s v Australian Schoolboys Puketwhero Park, Rotorua Tuesday 26 September
New Zealand 18s v Australian Schoolboys Trust Arena, Auckland Saturday 30 September
National Youth Tournament Rotorua Monday 2 – Friday 6 October
NZ Men’s Teams
National Premiership Round one Canterbury v Counties AMI Stadium, Christchurch Sunday 17 September 2pm
Waikato v Akarana FMG Stadium, Hamilton Sunday 17 September 4pm
Round two Waikato v Canterbury FMG Stadium, Hamilton Sunday 24 September 2pm
Counties v Akarana Mt Smart, Auckland Sunday 24 September 4pm
Round three Akarana v Canterbury Trust Stadium, Auckland Saturday 30 September 1.15pm
Counties v Waikato Trust Stadium, Auckland Saturday 30 September 3pm
Promotion/Relegation Game Fourth Placed Premiership Team v National Championship Winner Mt Smart, Auckland Saturday 7 October 5.30pm
Grand Final First in Premiership v Second in Premiership Mt Smart, Auckland Saturday 7 October 7.30pm
National Championship Round one Central Winner v Northern Winner Location: TBC Saturday, 16 September
Round two Southland Winner v Central Winner Location: TBC Saturday, 23 September
Round three Southland Winner v Northern Winner Location: TBC Saturday, 30 September
NZ Residents v NZ Maori Auckland Saturday, October 14
Saturday 22 July, 2017
Puketawhero Park, Rotorua
Rain, hail and tornados were predicted for the Bay of Plenty but the stormy weather pressed pause at Rotorua’s Puketawhero Park for the NZ Resident 16s v NZ Maori 17s clash on Saturday.
Three years on from the NZ Resident 16s win against Samoa, the side picked up exactly where their predecessors left off with another win to add to the collection.
Despite playing up an age group, the NZ Resident 16s stole a 32-28 victory over the NZ Maori 17s, providing a thrilling game of footy for spectators.
With NZ 16s half Nathaneal Sasagi opening the scoring with a try in the first 30 seconds, the NZ 16s sent a message to their opposition that they meant business. This was backed up with a conversion from fullback Tuinamo Tepulolo who finished the game with a 100 percent success rate at goal.
NZ 16s hooker Temple Kalepo was rewarded for his hard work 10 minutes later when he crossed the line for his side’s second try of the game taking the score to 12-0 after another successful conversion.
Just as the 16s were getting comfortable the NZ Maori 17s hit back with a try to Tyrin Ona-Murphy. Their captain Jordan Riki joined the action shortly after with another converted try to the NZ Maori 17s levelling the score at 12 all.
It looked like they would head to the changing rooms equal at halftime but the NZ Maori 17s had other ideas – the halftime score was 18-12 to the NZ Maori 17s.
The second half saw the Maoris come out firing as they gained a 24-12 lead with an aggressive attacking game and tight defence that halted the 16s’ momentum from the first half. Caleb Pese and South Islander Caius Fa’atili came to the rescue for the 16s managing to level the score 24 all with two converted tries and only 15 minutes left on the clock.
Supporters were on the edge of their seats as both teams scrambled to string together set plays. Composure and strength in the forwards paid off for the NZ 16s who sent Nathaneal Sasagi over the line for his second try of the game. Ten minutes out from the full time whistle NZ 16s were leading 30-24, in front for the first time since the first half.
A successful penalty kick from the classy Tuinamo Tepulolo extended their lead to 32-24 with only minutes to play. A last minute try from the NZ Maori 17s wasn’t enough to overtake the victorious NZ 16s who took home a 32-28 win.
For video interviews and to watch a replay of the livestream, click here
New Zealand Resident 16s 32 (Nathaneal Sasagi 2, Temple Kalepo, Caius Fa’atili, Caleb Pese tries; Tuinamo Tepulolo 5 goals; Tuinamo Tepulolo penalty) New Zealand Maori 17s 28 (Te Mana Te Maari, Wipere Takitumu, Tyrin Ona Murphy, Jordan Riki, Tane Wiki tries; Samuel Kamu, Leighman Hohaia Katene 3 goals)
NZRL Awards:
New Zealand 16s MVP: Leroy Ferguson
New Zealand Maori 17s MVP: Wipere Takitumu
NZ 16s team:
We put Kiwi boys Jordan Kahu, Dean Whare and Marty Taupau in the hot seat to find out a little more about themand their teammates…
Kiwis Coach David Kidwell has announced Adam Blair as the new captain to lead New Zealand at the Rugby League World Cup 2017.
The 30-year-old, Whangarei born Kiwi has played a vital role in the teams successes since his debut in 2006. With 41 international Tests under his belt, including the 2008 World Cup and 2014 Four Nations winning teams, Adam has been an integral member of the top-quality Broncos squad who are currently sitting in the NRL top four.
Having been a member of the Kiwis leadership team for several years, Kidwell is confident Blair has the mana, integrity and experience to take the next step in his career.
Adams vision and rugby league intelligence has been proven time and time again.
He is a well-respected core member of our team and has earned the respect of both the coaching staff and his fellow players, he says. Adam will steer the team in a positive direction with his actions, courage and mana.
Blair is known for his attention to detail both on the field and in his educational pursuits and he is taking the new role in his stride.
Im honoured to take on the new leadership role, playing for the Kiwis is not something I take lightly and leading the boys, especially in World Cup year is a challenge Im excited to get into, he says.
While Simon Mannering was considered for the role, the rugby league stalwart supported Blair in bringing a fresh perspective to the position.
Ive talked with Simon and he is happy with his role within the team and will continue to play a fundamental part as a member of the leadership group that will support the new captain, Kidwell says.
Blairs first appearance as captain will be when the Kiwis take on Samoa at Mt Smart on October 28.
Adam Blair:
Kiwi: #732
Date of birth: 20/03/1986
First grade appearances: 251
Tests: 41
Debuted: 2006
Junior Kiwis: 2002 & 2003
The RLWC2017 Organising Committee have announced that the SKY Sport has secured the New Zealand broadcast rights to this years Womens Rugby League World Cup.
Under the terms of the deal, SKY Sport will broadcast all 12 matches of the tournament culminating in the final on 2 December 2017, where history will be created when both the mens and womens finals are played on the same day, on the same stage.
RLWC2017 Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Hill said: We are delighted to be partnering with SKY Sport in an historic deal that will showcase the Womens Rugby League World Cup across New Zealand.
The agreement to broadcast every match of the tournament across New Zealand on SKY Sport is a significant step forward for Rugby League, providing a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate the skills and competitiveness of the womens game.
The Organising Committee is incredibly proud to be conducting a tournament that has attracted significant investment from both government and commercial partners whilst profiling the players and game like no previous Rugby League event.
This years tournament will be the first time the Womens Rugby League World Cup has been held as a standalone event, with the pool matches to be played at Southern Cross Group Stadium in Sydney as triple-headers on November 16, 19 and 22 with the semi-finals to be played as a double-header on November 26.
SKY Director of Sport, Richard Last said: Were thrilled to have secured this years Womens Rugby League World Cup for SKY Sport subscribers. Since the 2016 womens ANZAC Test featuring the Kiwi Ferns against the Jillaroos, weve seen a 26% increase in our viewership of womens Rugby League. Theres clearly a very real appetite, and we cant wait for the tournament to kick-off!
Female participation is one of the fastest growing areas of the sport. To be able to broadcast the Womens Rugby League World Cup across multiple international markets will not only promote womens Rugby League to a wider audience than ever before, but inspire further growth of the game from grassroots to the elite level, concluded Hill.
The Rugby League International Federation confirmed that Australia, Canada, Cook Islands, England, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea will be the six teams to contest the Womens Rugby League World Cup 2017.
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We want everyone to have a fun and positive league experience and to achieve this, New Zealand Rugby League has developed the nationwide ‘Be a sport’ programme.
Aimed at encouraging supporters to get behind their players and match officials in a positive way, each team takes responsibility for their own supporters’ behaviour.
Before every game they nominate a sideline champion (for their team), who wears a hi-visibility vest, and backed by sandwich boards featuring the ‘Be a sport’ messaging, circulates amongst their parents and supporters.
If needed the Team Champion will provide supporters’ with the code of conduct, reminding them about alcohol-free and smokefree sidelines, the use of positive language and encouraging behaviour, along with the NZRL values.
The aim is to resolve any issues before they escalate and NZRL’s Legacy Manager Kirsty Sharp says the initiative “is all about making sure the kids are enjoying themselves.”
“The ultimate goal is to create an environment where our Mini and Mod players can learn the basic skills of rugby league while socialising and having fun with their friends.
“In turn, this will encourage kids to continue playing the game and perhaps go onto a more competitive level of play,” she says.
The West Coast were the first to roll out the programme at their junior competition last weekend and NZRL Development Officer, Paddy Bryne, says the programme is off to a great start.
“The campaign has definitely been well-received by all down here in the South Island – it’s great to see such a positive uptake.
“It’s not hard to spot the sandwich boards, they’re bright and prominent promoting great messages,” he says.
The ‘Be a sport’ campaign will be implemented in each Zone throughout New Zealand and NZRL expects this to improve sideline conduct at all levels as the messages reach parents and fans of the game.
For more information – click here.
(Programme adapted from Auckland Rugby League)
The big hits keep coming for Kiwi #655 Ruben Wiki. Just days after making his comeback at the age of 44 at the Auckland Nines, Wiki was inducted into the New Zealand Sports Hall of Fame at the Halberg Awards.
He is just the ninth rugby league inductee to achieve the honour. Other rugby league players recognised have been Albert Baskerville, Tom Baxter, NZRL Legend Mark Graham, Kiwi #665 Stacey Jones, Ces Mountford, Charlie Seeling, George Smith and Des White.
Multi-talented and immensely popular Wiki proved himself to be among the finest of all rugby league players during 16 first-grade seasons which included an illustrious club career on both sides of the Tasman, establishing a Test-appearances world record while playing for the Kiwis in the backs and the forwards, and captaining his country to one of its most significant international triumphs. Since his retirement in 2008 he has continued to serve the sport at club and national levels.
Of Samoan and Maori descent, Wiki was born on January 21, 1973. In 1992 he starred for the Junior Kiwis, playing alongside future All Black captain Tana Umaga in the centres, and went on to represent Auckland and New Zealand Maori before being signed by the Canberra Raiders in 1993. He teamed up with his boyhood hero Mal Meninga when Canberra won the 1994 grand final. Wiki also made his Test debut against Papua New Guinea in 1994 and was to wear the Kiwis jersey every year from then until 2006.
The first half of his international career was almost exclusively played as a 95kg centre, where he made 21 of his first 24 Test appearances (the other three were as a replacement loose forward). At the 2000 World Cup in Britain he started in the forwards for the first time, staying there for his remaining 31 Tests. He progressively moved from loose forward and then into the second-row before specialising as a 106kg prop from 2004. Few rugby league players anywhere in the world have had the combined physical and mental assets to successfully handle all of those very different roles.
In 2005 Wiki captained the Kiwis and was named man of the match in their stunning 24-0 victory over Australia in the Tri Nations final at Elland Road in Leeds. It was New Zealand’s maiden victory in a major tournament and was the forerunner to subsequent World Cup (2008) and Four Nations (2010 and 2014) triumphs. That momentous occasion was also Wiki’s 50th Test match – he was the first to achieve that milestone for any nation – and when he retired after the 2006 season his world record stood at 55. Wiki had captained his country in the last 18 of them, proving to be an inspiration on and off the field.
After retiring from international football he twice played for the All Golds, against the Northern Union in Warrington in 2007 and against New Zealand Maori in New Plymouth in 2008. He also represented a Samoa Residents side in 2009 and, just after his 44th birthday, captained the Vodafone Warriors at the 2017 NRL Nines at Eden Park (the first time he had ever played at the venue).
At NRL level, Wiki made 225 appearances for the Canberra Raiders from 1993 to 2004 – and was twice that proud club’s player of the year – and 87 for the Vodafone Warriors from 2005 to 2008 (named player of the Year in 2005). On June 29, 2008, he became only the 10th player of all time, and the first (and still only) New Zealander, to reach 300 first-grade matches in a competition which extends back to 1908. When he retired at the end of that season his total was 312.
Since his retirement from playing, Wiki has served as the New Zealand Rugby League’s high performance manager, been on the support staff of the Kiwis, and held the role of strength and conditioning coach for the Vodafone Warriors. He has mentored numerous young players seeking to follow in his footsteps and occasionally pulled the boots back on to play in charity games. Wiki has been recognised in many Canberra, Vodafone Warriors and New Zealand ‘best ever’ team selections since his retirement, including the New Zealand Rugby League’s team of the century.
In 2007, while still playing in his penultimate season for the Vodafone Warriors, Wiki was made an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM) for his services to rugby league. Later that year he won the Ken Stephen Medal, awarded annually to the NRL player who makes the most outstanding contribution to the community.
The Kiwi Ferns will open their 2017 Rugby League World Cup account against Canada on November 16 at Cronulla’s Southern Cross Group Stadium.
RLWC2017’s organising committee has announced the women’s tournament draw, with New Zealand drawing the North Americans and Papua New Guinea in Pool B.
With the support of the NSW Government, all pool matches and semi-finals will be played at the home of the Cronulla Sharks. The WRLWC2017 final will be played as a double-header with the men’s final at Brisbane Stadium on December 2, through support from the Queensland Government.
Pool A features reigning World Cup holders Australia, taking on England and Cook Islands.
The tournament draw will see the three pool rounds played as triple-headers on November 16, November 19 and November 22 respectively, with the semi-finals to be contested as a double-header on Sunday, November 26.
RLWC2017 chief executive officer Andrew Hill said the anticipation surrounding the women’s tournament reflects the growth of women’s rugby league and the draw supports what will be an exciting event.
“Interest in women’s rugby league has never been greater, and we want this tournament to provide a platform to showcase these world-class athletes and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
“The two pools are evenly matched and lend themselves perfectly to exciting rugby league. Having multiple games on the one day at Southern Cross Group Stadium will create a real festival of rugby league for teams and fans alike.
“We look forward to welcoming the six competing teams to Australia, as they vie for the title of 2017 Women’s Rugby League World Cup winners.”
Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2017 Pools
Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2017 Draw Kick-off times to be confirmed
Ticket details for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2017 matches in Sydney will be announced in due course.
Fans can now purchase tickets for Finals Day at Brisbane Stadium on December 2, 2017 from RLWC2017.com. See both the women’s and men’s World Cup winners crowned on same day with the one ticket.
NZ Kiwis rugby league coach David Kidwell admits he needs to surround himself with experienced minds, if he has any chance of turning the team’s current slump around.
Kidwell has just one win in five matches as Kiwis coach and was in the firing line, after a disappointing Four Nations campaign that included two losses to Australia and a draw with Scotland.
He said coming in just months out from the campaign was tough and that having another voice to lean on could help dramatically.
“I’ve got an opportunity to align myself with High Performance New Zealand and go into a forum where other coaches might have been in the same situation,” Kidwell told Newstalk ZB’s Tony Veitch.
“It’s an opportunity for me to learn.”
Read more
Six players, an assistant coach and a manager have been added to the Kiwi Ferns programme, as the national women’s team prepares to defend their Downer NRL Auckland Nines title in February.
Open trials earlier this month have produced a handful of additional candidates, including dual rugby/league international Charlotte Scanlan, and past nines exponents Chanel Huddleston and Alex Cook.
Huddleston was a member of the successful 2015 team, while Cook turned out for this year’s winners.
Bunty Kuruwaka-Crowe of Canterbury, Louisa Gago of Akarana and Makaia Riki-Te Kauna of Upper Central are also
The Kiwi Ferns will again face the Australian Jillarroos in a three-game series, competing on the same stage as the 16 NRL men’s teams. The two previous instalments have seen New Zealand emerge 2-1 winners.
Meanwhile, Dan Keepa of Counties Manukau will join the existing Ferns staff to assist head coach Alan Jackson, while Elizabeth Richards of Akarana takes up the manager’s role.
The wider Kiwi Ferns squad is:
One-test Kiwi and respected Maori leader Mita Mohi MBE JP has died in Rotorua, aged 78.
Mohi (Kiwi #501) played among the forwards, representing Canterbury in 42 games from 1960-73, and turning out for Marist, Papanui and Riccarton in Christchurch.
He also represented South Island three times and NZ Marist, making his only appearance for the Kiwis against hosts France at the 1972 World Cup. Ironically, Mohi injured a calf during the pre-match haka and was replaced during the game.
A train driver in his early working life, Mohi was also a professional wrestler and prominent in Maori tennis, but is best known for his promotion of the Maori culture and particularly “mau rakau”, the art of Maori weaponry.
He established the Mokoia taiaha wananga to train boys and men in the art of using the Maori spear, and also developed a mau rakau programme that has run in New Zealand prisons.
Mohi was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in the 1995 New Year Honours for his services to youth and, in 2007, received a Rotorua District Council community award for voluntary services.
He was given the Keeper of Traditions Award at the 2012 National Waiata Maori Music Awards and that same year, accepted the Sir Kingi Ihaka Award at the Te Waka Toi Awards.
“The wairua [spirit] that man had was just incredible,” second cousin and NZRL life member Trevor Maxwell told the Rotorua Daily Post.
“There would have been thousands of kids who went through his programme on Mokoia Island. He helped so many, especially those at-risk kids.”
Australia have turned on a rugby league masterclass to dispatch the NZ Kiwis in the Four Nations final and grab the world #1 ranking from their rivals.
The Kangaroos stamped their authority with an impeccable first-half performance and held on for a 34-8 victory at Anfield, the famous home of Liverpool FC.
Winger Josh Dugan scored twice, as the Kangaroos bullied the Kiwis’ inexperienced left-edge defence, while his team ran in a total of six tries through a combination of power, skill and speed.
Australia wasted no time establishing their dominance, taking advantage of Jordan Kahu’s handling error to put centre Blake Ferguson across untouched in the corner.
Jordan Rapana split the Aussie defence with a long run, but when it broke down, the Kangaroos counterattacked, with fullback Darius Boyd providing the last pass for Dugan’s first try.
A botched play-the-ball between Shaun Kenny-Dowall and Issac Luke provided Australia with the opportunity for Trent Merrin to bullock his way over near the posts, while Dugan outpaced the defence to gather a kick-through from Johnathan Thurston for his second try.
Ahead 24-0 at half-time, Australia enjoyed the lion’s share of possession and territory, racking up nine repeat sets and completing 90% of their sets. New Zealand had just three repeat sets and finished 67%.
If the Kiwis hoped to mount a comeback, they were rocked soon after the restart, when Boyd barely reached the try-line to extend the Australian lead.
There were more hopeful signs for the black-and-white jersey through the second half though. In the 56th minute, Jordan Kahu capitalised on some extended pressure with a try and then secured a double, when he spun and lunged across the line.
But there was no denying Australia their triumph, with second row Boyd Cordner providing the icing on the cake in the final moments. Boyd was named Man of the Match.
“It was one of those nights,” conceded Kiwis veteran Adam Blair, “We worked really hard this whole tour and this week, but we were very disappointed with our effort in the first half.
“Collectively, as a group, we let ourselves down and our ball-handling was terrible.
“Then we came out in the second half and tried to play some footy in what we believe is the Kiwis style, but they were a class outfit tonight and cleaned us up.”
New Zealand must now regroup under coach David Kidwell and prepare for their next challenge, the trans-Tasman test early next year and Rugby League World Cup 2017 on home soil.
Australia 34 (Josh Dugan 2, Blake Ferguson, Trent Merrin, Darius Boyd & Boyd Cordner tries; Johnathan Thurston 5 goals) NZ Kiwis 8 (Jordan Kahu 2 tries)
NZ Kiwis look to defend their tournament title and world #1 ranking, when they face Australia on Monday morning 3:30am (NZ time) in the final match of the 2016 Four Nations.
Coach David Kidwell has acknowledged it has been a difficult task naming the final squad considering the effort all members of the tour have shown.
“The intensity, application and focus has gone up another level this week. I’ve been really pleased with how the boys have responded and it’s made the job harder to pick my squad which is really positive.”
Apart from Kiwi #704 Thomas Leuluai (broken jaw), all other players were in consideration for the team.
Adam Blair will become the seventh player in history to play 40 tests in the black-and-white jersey, joining Issac Luke, who achieved this milestone last week.
“This very rarely happens, players reaching this level,” says Kidwell. “Both men hold so much mana in Te Iwi Kiwi and as they always do, they will help lead the team on Sunday.”
Jordan Kahu, Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Kevin Proctor and Jason Taumalolo all return to the playing squad after last week off, as well as Lewis Brown and Jordan Rapana, who were 18th and 19th men.
The Kiwis could be the first team ever to win consecutive Four Nations titles.
“The main thing is concentrating on key areas in our game and taking opportunities,” says Kidwell.
“We’ve worked extremely hard all tour and now it’s time to show that on the field for a full 80 minutes.”
The full NZ Kiwis team (in alphabetical order) to face Australia in the Four Nations final is:
Adam Blair (Brisbane Broncos) Jesse Bromwich – captain (Melbourne Storm) Lewis Brown (Manly Sea Eagles) Greg Eastwood (Canterbury Bulldogs) James Fisher-Harris (Penrith Panthers) David Fusitu’a (NZ Warriors) Tohu Harris (Melbourne Storm) Shaun Johnson (NZ Warriors) Jordan Kahu (Brisbane Broncos) Solomone Kata (NZ Warriors) Shaun Kenny-Dowall (Sydney Roosters) Issac Luke (NZ Warriors) Te Maire Martin (Penrith Panthers) Manu Ma’u (Parramatta Eels) Kevin Proctor (Melbourne Storm) Jordan Rapana (Canberra Raiders) Joseph Tapine (Canberra Raiders) Jason Taumalolo (North Queensland Cowboys) Martin Taupau (Manly Sea Eagles) Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (Penrith Panthers)
Now that the NZ Kiwis are confirmed in next weekend’s Four Nations final, veteran utility Lewis Brown is looking on the positive side of events that have delivered them there.
Held to a surprise draw by Scotland on Saturday (NZ time), the world #1 side needed to rely on Australia holding off England, before they could finalise plans for another week in the north of England.
With that nightmare behind them, the Kiwis can now focus on their one-off assignment at the iconic Liverpool FC home ground of Anfield.
“Obviously we’re a bit disappointed, but it is what it is,” reflects Brown, who filled the unenviable 18th-man role for the encounter against the Scots at Workington.
“We came up against a team that was very passionate at a place where they’ve had a lot of success.
“Luckily, we get another bit of the cheery. It wasn’t ideal, firstly losing to Australia and then having a draw against Scotland, but it shows how strong international rugby league is becoming.
“It was probably a wake-up call, to be honest, and maybe a blessing in disguise.”
Brown has carved a niche for himself in the Kiwis rotation, often spelling hooker Issac Luke for 15-20 minutes in the second half. That provides an ideal opportunity to gauge the team’s performance through the opening stages of a match.
“We probably haven’t started games that well,” he admits. “Against England and Australia, we were probably chasing out tails a bit.
“It was the same against Scotland. With a strong wind behind us, 6-4 at halftime probably wasn’t that ideal.
“Our starts haven’t been the best, but it’s all there. As individuals, we need to focus a bit more and hopefully our execution can come from that.
“We probably haven’t put together a full 80 minutes of football. We’ve got a lot of calibre in the side, but we haven’t put it all together yet.
“When you think about it, that’s quite exciting.”
After the Scotland game, the NZ contingent moved base from Carlisle to Manchester, awaiting further developments. Their hotel did not carry BBC coverage of the Australia v England game, some nervous Nellies chose not to watch, while others went elsewhere to learn their fate.
With one training run under their belts, they are due to relocate to Liverpool tomorrow.
“Looking back on the three games, we’ve prepared pretty well, but we just haven’t put the right performance together,” says Brown. “We’ve gone pretty close, but I believe our energy has been a bit down, whereas in past successful years, we’ve had a lot of energy.
“It’s all about stripping it right back and playing the brand of footy we like to play. We’ve got forwards who can move the ball and I’m pretty sure, this weekend, we’ll be looking to do that.
“It’s been there the last three weeks, but we probably haven’t executed it that well.”
After the Scotland result, the Kiwis will enter the Four Nations climax as firm underdogs, but Brown is adamant his team are capable of turning their fortunes around, with their tournament crown and world ranking at stake.
“We haven’t spoken about that this week, but we came over as #1 and we want to go back #1,” he says. “New Zealand rugby league is in a pretty strong position at the moment and our attitude here is we don’t like losing.”
Twelve of this current squad took the field for the 2014 Four Nations victory in Wellington, a performance that capped an unbeaten run through that tournament.
“Playing in that final was one of the highlights of my career and you’ve got to take a bit of belief from that,” reflects Brown. “A lot of boys were in that final and if you haven’t won one, it’s a bit hard.
“But we’ve been there and done it, and that experience will hopefully hold us in good stead this weekend.
“I have every belief that if we can get ourselves right, we give ourselves a good chance.”
One dilemma immediately facing coach David Kidwell is a replacement for veteran five-eighth Thomas Leuluai, who left the Scotland game with a broken jaw.
Two obvious candidates are second row Tohu Harris, who has filled the #6 jersey on a makeshift basis previously, or international rookie Te Maire Martin, who made his debut as Leuluai’s replacement on Saturday.
But the Kiwis’ struggles on tour have perhaps found some perspective, as news filters through on the earthquakes that have struck much of New Zealand in recent days.
“Obviously, it’s a bit close to home for us,” admits Brown. “I’ve got family in Christchurch and they’ve had it rough.
“It’s not very pleasant to see stuff like that happen in your own backyard and the city has been through a lot. Luckily, my family are all safe.
“The boys are a bit rattled. A few of them are from Wellington, and their families or friends got evacuated.
“It’s a weird feeling when something like that is going on back home.”
NZ Kiwis had progressed to the Four Nations final at Anfield next week, after Australia turned aside England 36-18 overnight.
World champions Australia had already qualified for the tournament climax, but did their trans-Tasman rivals a favour with their hard-fought victory over the home side at London’s Olympic Stadium.
The English needed only a draw to advance and lagged only 10-6 at half-time. Big centre Greg Inglis gave the Kangaroos some breathing room with a try, converted by Johnathan Thurston, soon after the restart, before the floodgates opened.
Prop Matt Scott and centre Josh Dugan scored in quick succession, both converted by Thurston, and the margin was suddenly 28-6.
England five-eighth Graham Widdop gave his side a glimpse of hope with a converted try, but Aussie second-row Matt Gillett put the result beyond doubt, stretching out in a two-tackle for another four-pointer.
Big English winger Ryan Hall kept his incredible try-scoring record intact, scoring his 31st in 31 games, but rookie winger Valentine Holmes dove over acrobatically in the corner to complete the scoresheet.
The Four Nations final is scheduled for the iconic home of Liverpool FC next Monday, November 21, at 3.30am NZ.
World number #1 New Zealand face an anxious 48 hours, if they are to progress to the Four Nations final next week.
The NZ Kiwis were held to an historic 18-18 by underdogs Scotland in their final pool game at Workington’s Zebra Claims Stadium, conceding a final-minute converted try that has them on the cusp of elimination.
They must now hope world champions Australia can defeat England tomorrow morning (NZ time) in London. The tournament hosts only need a draw to advance on points-differential.
Faced with a fired-up Scottish side, playing at their south-of-the-border home, a heavy ground and horrific weather conditions, the Kiwis, including four players on debut, never really settled into their task.
They reached half-time just 6-4 ahead, after enjoying the benefits of a strong tail-wind for the first 40 minutes.
After 20 minutes of unrewarded Scots dominance, debutant winger David Fusitu’a finally put them up with a try down the right side.
Capitalising on a Scotland mistake down their own end, the NZ side made easy metres up the middle of the park, half Shaun Johnson found Tohu Harris running off his shoulder and the rangy second rower showed Fusitu’a an open path to the line.
But Lewis Tierney answered only a few moments later, chasing down a grubber kick from Lachlan Coote behind the try-line and grounding before space ran out. Danny Brough’s conversion was wayward, leaving his team adrift at the break.
Brough signalled Scotland’s intent immediately after the restart, drilling a wind-assisted 40/20 kick that pinned the Kiwis deep in their own territory.
Somehow, the black-and-whites held them out and eventually provided Fusitu’a with another touchdown on the end of a slick back-line movement
But the Bravehearts weren’t to be denied, drawing even with a try to Ben Hellewell, converted by Brough. Then they drew a penalty by catching Manu Ma’u offside, as he regained his feet from a tackle and Brough slotted a go-ahead kick from out in front for a 12-10 lead.
Facing an upset of Trump proportions, the Kiwis seemed to stave off defeat with two tries in quick succession to centre Gerard Beale. Neither were converted into the wind and Scotland still had a chance with the final minutes counting down.
That was all they needed. Charging back onto attack, they moved the ball right, where centre Euan Aitken burst through two tacklers to score. Brough was again on target to seal the deadlock, as the final hooter sounded.
Johnson was named Man of the Match and was a threat whenever he had the ball in hand, but the individual honour will be small consolation, if the English can get up on Monday morning.
“We’re disappointed, but Scotland played really well tonight,” he said afterwards. “We wanted to get the job done, but we knew it was going to be tough in difficult conditions, but a lot of credit to Scotland.
“Every game you play in these tournaments is very tough. We can complain all we want about how we played, but they showed up with the right attitude and competed really hard.”
This was the best performance ever from a “fourth team” at the Four Nations and suggests the big three cannot rest on their laurels as the game spreads internationally.
As the starting winger, Fusitu’a was always dangerous on debut, but fellow newcomers Joseph Tapine, James Fisher-Harris and Te Maire Martin were forced to come off the bench under fire.
They probably enjoyed their best moment, when Martin and young fullback Dallin Watene-Zelezniak were part of the lead-up to Beale’s second try, DWZ providing the final pass.
Martin came onto the field, when veteran Thomas Leuluai ominously headed to the sideline clutching a broken jaw.
“I suppose that was a welcome to coaching,” reflected new Kiwis coach David Kidwell. “I thought we did well to get back into the game, with the conditions here suited to Scotland’s style of play.
“We’ve got some disappointed players in there, but we just have to move on and make sure we recover well.”
NZ Kiwis 18 (David Fusitu’a 2 & Gerard Beale 2 tries; Issac Luke goal) Scotland 18 (Lewis Tierney, Ben Hellewell & Euan Aitken tries; Danny Brough 3 goals)
NZ Kiwis players are trying to take the mathematics out of the equation this week, as they prepare for a banana-skin Four Nations match-up with Scotland on Saturday (NZ time).
But fullback Jordan Kahu admits they are ruing past mistakes that have added to the tension, as they try to nail down their spot in next week’s tournament final.
After edging England in their campaign opener and falling narrowly to world champions Australia last week, New Zealand have the inside running on a place at Anfield and a chance to defend their title from two years ago.
All they require is victory against the Scots and an Australian win over England to set the scene for a trans-Tasman showdown at the iconic home of Liverpool FC.
But if the home side were to somehow topple the Kangaroos, then points differential becomes crucial and the Kiwis’ margin of success over Scotland becomes doubly important.
Weigh that against the temptation to blood several tour rookies this week and you begin to understand the dilemma facing coach David Kidwell.
But Kahu insists his team-mates aren’t sweating too much on the outcome, just the process.
“As players, we haven’t been focusing on [points differential] too much,” he says. “We had missed opportunities against Australia and England, and points have gone begging, so we’re really just focusing on ourselves to make sure we’re at the top of our game.
“Hopefully, if we put our best footy on the park, that will help us with the differential.
“When we play England and Australia, it’s always hard to get points. Defensively, they’re both pretty good teams and we’ve been trying our best, but those missed opportunities haven’t helped.
“If we can rectify that, then I guess we can put more points on the board.”
Apart from the opening stages against England, when they jumped out to an early 8-0 lead, the Scots haven’t really threatened an upset so far, but that’s not to say they won’t provide a tricky obstacle in that scramble for final spots.
Kahu, for one, refuses to write them off.
“They’re gutsy. They’ve definitely put their hand up and shown they’re competitive at this level.
“We’re coming to Scotland and playing their home team. I know if Scotland were coming to New Zealand, we would definitely be putting our best team on the park, so we’re going to prepare like we’re playing anyone else and make sure everyone turns up on Friday.”
The composition of that Kiwis line-up should become clearer within 24 hours and Kidwell may opt to test some of the exciting new talent waiting in the wings.
Five-eighth Te Maire Martin, wing/fullback David Fusitu’a, and forwards Joseph Tapine and James Fisther-Harris are all vying to become Kiwi #800, while one-test winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak is another champing at the bit.
“They definitely deserve a shot,” says Kahu, who may well have to step aside to make room, if those newcomers are to be accommodated.
“They’ve been here with us since Perth and pushing us at training, making sure we’re fighting for our positions.
“They all deserve a chance to wear the black jersey and If they do, they’ve been training like they’re ready to play some good footy and I’m sure they’ll fit in pretty well.”
Head coach David Kidwell has given four international rookies the chance to wear the black-and-white jersey in the NZ Kiwis’ Four Nations clash with Scotland on Saturday morning (NZ).
One-test Kiwi Dallin Watene-Zelezniak (21) has been named at fullback in place of Jordan Kahu, joining debutant David Fusitu’a (22), who takes a wing spot, in the starting line-up.
Three others – Te Maire Martin (21), James Fisher-Harris (20) and Joseph Tapine (22) – will come off the bench for their first appearances in an international test match. The first to take the field will become Kiwi #800.
The NZ team have moved camp to Carlisle ahead of their game in Workington on the northwest coast of England.
With this line-up, all 24 members of the touring squad will have played during the Four Nations tournament.
“It’s an exciting opportunity for these young players,” says Kidwell. “They are hungry, their effort and attitude in training has shown me that, and they’ll bring a lot of energy.”
After the 14-8 loss to Australia last Sunday (NZ), Kidwell acknowledges this game is a must win.
“The most important thing right now is we need to win. Scotland started really well against England and we need to respect that.
“They have improved every game and if you add that on top of the conditions, we have a tough challenge ahead.”
“The guys making their debuts deserve the opportunity to play. They have worked extremely hard and have been pushing for spots all tour.”
Jason Nightingale also returns to the team, after missing last week’s test with an ankle injury.
Manu Ma’u and Greg Eastwood come into the starting team replacing Kevin Proctor and Jason Taumalolo, while Gerard Beale shifts to centre in place of Shaun Kenny-Dowall.
6Kiwis half Shaun Johnson came within an ace of stealing an unlikely result against world champions Australia, but he and his New Zealand side fell shot 14-8 in their Four Nations clash at Coventry.
One week after engineering a one-point win over hosts England in their tournament opener, Johnson appeared out of sorts for most of this encounter, but burst to life over the final 10 minutes to bring his side within an ace of victory.
Trailling 14-4, he chipped ahead on the final tackle of a set, regathered in midfield and spread the ball to centre Shaun Kenny-Dowall, who drew the last defender and sent Jordan Rapana over in the corner.
Johnson’s conversion attempt was wide, but a converted try could still snatch a draw.
With the final seconds counting down, Johnson found another chink in the Kangaroos’ defensive armour and plunged over the try-line, but was wrapped up by Australian fullback Darius Boyd and was unable to force the ball.
The thriller ended, with Gerard Beale’s in-goal speculator forced dead.
“We had a chance, but it wasn’t to be,” lamented Johnson afterwards. “We had plenty of opportunities at the end, we just came up short.
“A few things let us down, we just couldn’t build the pressure we wanted. We just have to get better.”
Australia dominated the first half, running in tries to wing Blake Ferguson and half Johnathan Thurston to lead 10-0 at the break. They probably should have been further ahead, but made more errors than their counterparts, who could not get a fair share of possession.
New Zealand’s best chance of scoring in the opening 40 minutes came, when Rapana intercepted the ball on his own try-line and set off up-field, only to be ankle-tapped by the pursuing Greg Inglis.
But the reigning Four Nations champions began the second half with far more determination, rewarded when centre Solomone Kata bullocked his way over for his first try in the black jersey.
Ultimately, the win slipped from the Kiwis’ fingers through ill-discipline. Twice, they were penalised in the tackle in front of their own posts and Thurston’s kicking boot stretched the advantage to 14-4.
Ferguson almost had another try in the right corner, but the touch judge correctly ruled the final pass forward.
New Zealand came close, but could never quite bridge the gap.
It was an improved performance on their previous two outings against Australia, though – the 16-0 loss in Newcastle in May and 26-6 in Perth three weeks ago.
The Kiwis still hold the inside running on a spot in the Four Nations final. They must beat Scotland convincingly in Workington on Friday and hope Australia can keep England at bay on Sunday.
If England win, the two final berths will likely be decided on a countback of points difference, so the margin of victory over the Scots becomes vital to New Zealand’s hopes.
Australia 14 (Blake Ferguson & Johnathan Thurston tries; Thurston 3 goals) NZ Kiwis 8 (Solomone Kata & Jordan Rapana tries)
New Zealand Rugby League is calling for interested applicants for the role of NZ Kiwi Ferns manager.
The team manager provides support to the coach and trainer by attending to all administration matters relating to the team and its players.
The manager will be the key person responsible for liaising between the team and NZRL.
As part of the management team, you will be a role model for the players and other management staff members. There is an expectation that all management staff will adhere to the NZRL pledge and live these values.
The successful applicant must be able to travel, and will need a current NZ driver’s licence and a mobile phone for communication purposes.
Applicants should submit their CV’s (work & rugby league management experience) and an letter for the above role to NZRL high performance manager Brent Gemmell by 5pm Friday, October 28, 2016.
New Zealand Rugby League will be conducting trials for the NZ Kiwi Ferns team to contest next year’s NRL Auckland Nines.
The national women’s team beat Australia in a three-game series in both the 2015 and 2016 tournaments, and have been invited to defend that crown at Eden Park next February.
For Ferns head coach Alan Jackson, it’s a chance to cast his net wider that just the rugby league community for talent.
“The NRL Nines have really opened up the public’s eyes to the women’s game,” says Jackson. “Our girls really enjoy playing in front of a huge crowd that gets right behind them and it’s a good stepping stone.
“The nines format is a little less physical and a good way to get a taste of what rugby league is all about.”
Trials have been scheduled for Cornwall Park, Auckland on November 5.
Eligibility criteria is as follows:
· New Zealand citizen/resident (residing in New Zealand)
· Minimum age requirement
· The player has attained or will have attained at least 17 years of age by December 31 in the year preceding the commencement of the 2017 season/campaign (participants must be born in 1999 or previous)
· Be available for training sessions and camps (these will be advised and will take place in the months of December 2016 and January/February 2017, in lead up to the NRL Auckland Nines)
To attend the trials, all participants must register to be considered and this can be done here.
The deadline for preliminary registrations is 5pm, Wednesday, October 26. Please note that any travel and/or accommodation expenses are the responsibility of the trialist.
NZRL will respond to all those that register to advise if they have been successful to attend the trials, as well as providing them with further details by Friday, October 28.
Junior Kiwi James Fisher-Harris has earned a spot on the NZ Kiwis training squad for next month’s test against Australia in Perth and the subsequent Four Nations Tournament in England.
The Penrith Panthers forward was named to the national U20 side in May, but had to withdraw from their encounter with the Junior Kangaroos through injury. He took the field for Junior Kiwis in the same fixture last year.
Hailing from the Northland town of Rawene, Fisher-Harris enjoyed a break-through season with the Panthers, taking advantage of injuries to cement a spot in the first-grade line-up.
Penrith were eliminated from the NRL playoffs by Canberra Raiders last weekend, ushering Fisher-Harris, Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Suaia Matagi and Te Maire Martin into the national squad.
After two previous false starts, DWZ finally made his Kiwis debut in May, while Matagi was part of the triumphant 2014 Four Nations campaign, coming off the bench against Samoa.
Like Fisher-Harris, five-eighth Martin also stepped up to first grade this season, but missed Penrith’s run to the playoffs with a shoulder injury.
Joining them in the wider group are Brisbane Broncos Adam Blair, Alex Glenn and Jordan Kahu, who were ousted from the premiership race by North Queensland Cowboys in a rematch of last season’s grand finalists.
All three were named for the May test against Australia, but Glenn withdrew with a calf injury. Blair co-captained the Kiwis in England last year and Kahu’s ability to play a variety of positions has proven valuable since debuting on that same tour.
Vodafone Warriors prop Ben Matulino has withdrawn from contention for off-season surgery, while new coach David Kidwell has added Warriors hooker/second row Jazz Tevaga.
The latest inclusions brings the current squad to 31, with more to come after next weekend’s NRL semi-finals.
The final touring squad of 24 will be named during the week after the NRL Premiership Grand Final on October 2.
The Kiwis face Australia on October 15 and kick off their Four Nations title defence against hosts England on October 29.
The current NZ Kiwis train-on squad is:
The Rugby League World Cup 2017 (RLWC2017) organising committee has announced that, for the first time, in the sport’s history the Women’s Rugby League World Cup will be held concurrently with the men’s tournament.
With NSW Government funding, Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2017 pool matches and semi-finals will be played at Southern Cross Group Stadium, the home of the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks NRL team, from November 16 next year, with both the women’s and men’s finals played as a double-header at Brisbane Stadium on December 2.a
RLWC2017 chief executive Andrew Hill said this historic announcement for international rugby league provides the women’s game with the perfect platform to demonstrate their world-class prowess.
“It has always been the board’s vision to have the Women’s Rugby League World Cup played concurrently with the men’s tournament and through the strong support of the NSW Government, we have been able to create what is a milestone moment for the sport,” said Hill.
“It’s only fitting these gifted athletes get the opportunity to showcase their skills on a global stage and we see next year’s Women’s Rugby League World Cup as a game-changer for the sport.
“Female participation in all forms of rugby league is the fastest-growing category in the game and women’s international rugby league has made great strides forward in recent years.
“To have both the women’s and men’s finals played on the same day at the same venue will conclude what will be the greatest ever Rugby League World Cup,” Hill concluded.
NSW Minister for Sport Stuart Ayres said women’s international rugby league continues to go from strength to strength and the Women’s World Cup will be a massive drawcard for fans.
“It’s a huge coup for NSW to make the Women’s World Cup happen and Sydney is the perfect location to welcome visitors to enjoy these exciting matches,” said Ayres.
“Our female players are bringing global recognition to the game and I encourage all fans to attend the Women’s World Cup next year where they will witness the tremendous talent we have in our game.”
Previously the Women’s Rugby League World Cup was part of the user-pays Festival of World Cups that featured tournaments for Women, Defence, Police, Wheelchair and Universities.
In 2017, the stand-alone Women’s Rugby League World Cup will involve six teams from three different continents – Europe (England), North America (Canada) and Oceania (Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea).
The final team will come from either Fiji, Tonga, Samoa or the Cook Islands, following the Pacific qualifying series to be played at St Mary’s in Western Sydney during October 2016.
The draw for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup 2017 will be announced after the Pacific qualifying series.
Tickets to the double-header final at Brisbane Stadium on Saturday, December 2 2017 will go on general sale at noon NZ, October 27 2016.
To receive ticketing news and access a priority purchase window, register today at RLWC2017.com.
Respected and experienced rugby league administrator Andrew Hill has been appointed chief executive officer of the Rugby League World Cup 2017 (RLWC2017) organising committee.
RLWC2017 chairman Dr George Peponis announced the appointment today, following the recent resignation of former CEO Michael Brown.
“We are delighted Andrew has accepted the role of chief executive officer for the Rugby League World Cup 2017,” Dr Peponis said.
“Andrew has a great connection with the game, from the grassroots through to the international stage. He brings with him a technical understanding, as well as vision for the strategic direction of the game, not just in Australia, New Zealand and the region, but around the world.
“Andrew’s experience in working at the club level, as a senior executive with the NRL and the international federation brings a unique outlook to the game. It’s this all-of-game perspective that we think is important in leading the Rugby League World Cup and will complement the skills of those already serving on the organising committee.
“I’d like to thank Maria Sykes for standing in as interim chief executive officer, while the board finalised its position and am pleased she will continue in her role as chief operating officer.”
Hill has agreed to terms with the NRL that will allow him to stand aside from his position as general manager of league integration and game development.
“Rugby league is well placed, both domestically and internationally, to experience growth in participation and popularity in the coming years, and I see the Rugby League World Cup in 2017 as the ideal platform for us achieving this,” Hill said.
“I am extremely honoured and proud to be involved in the tournament, and am keen to build on the strong foundation that is in place.
“We will take next year’s tournament to more fans than ever before, and deliver the greatest Rugby League World Cup that will inspire communities and create a lasting legacy for the sport.”
Andrew Hill will officially start his role with the RLWC2017 on August 29, 2016.
The Junior Kangaroos have made it back-to-back wins over the Junior Kiwis, with a convincing 34-20 victory at Pirtek Stadium to kick off Saturday’s festival of footy.
The game’s future looks in safe hands, as players from both teams combined to put on a highly entertaining spectacle in front of a colourful and noisy crowd.
Jaydn Sua was named man of the match, after running for a game high 212 metres, continuing his incredible start to the year for the Broncos.
Australia’s halves both produced solid kicking games, but they were slightly upstaged by Kiwis #7 Ata Hingano, who scored a double, while Brandon Smith made three line breaks from dummy half. A penalty for an ugly tackle on Kangaroos prop Tevita Pangai Jr in the 12th minute put the hosts on the attack and three plays later, front-row partner JJ Felise barrelled his way over from close range to open the scoring.
It was a solid opening for the big men with the try scorer running for 76 metres in just 20 minutes while the three Test veteran made 59 metres and produced two offloads.
The Kiwis had a chance to launch an attacking raid via their first penalty of the game but failed to find touch thanks to some unbelievable work by Brian Kelly who showed incredible awareness to keep the ball in play.
It was a moment the Kiwis would regret as a penalty to Australia put them straight back on the attack, allowing the Panthers pairing of Nathan Cleary and Dylan Edwards to combine to send winger Curtis Scott over in the right corner.
The Junior Roos had hardly been tested in the opening exchanges but were soon put under the pump after a couple of misdemeanours helped march the Kiwis downfield.
It was an opportunity the visitors would take with both hands as Bulldogs Intrust Super Premiership fullback Brad Abbey showed off his ball-playing skills with a gem of a pass to send Newcastle’s Ken Tofilau in to score out wide.
The New Zealanders had suddenly found their feet and were nearly in again as back-up hooker Nathaniel Roache sliced straight through some tiring Australian defence.
His terrific build-up play wouldn’t go to waste as Hingano threw a dummy close to the line before carrying three would-be defenders over to narrow the margin just before half-time.
Nathan Cleary’s boot was the only thing that separated the sides at the break, with the Penrith halfback lamenting his team’s sloppy end to the half.
“We tried to get a bit too fancy,” Cleary conceded to Fox Sports commentator Andy Raymond as he left the field at half-time.
Kangaroos coach Justin Holbrook wouldn’t have been pleased with his side’s start to the second 40 as they coughed up the ball from a 20 metre tap, but his mood would have improved considerably seven minutes later as a fortuitous try helped extend the lead.
A kick from Roosters NRL rookie Connor Watson ricocheted off Abbey straight into the arms of late inclusion Brian Kelly who spun through an attempted tackle to get his name on the scoreboard.
Watson then did it all himself three minutes later with a hit-and-spin to show just why the Tricolours promoted him to the first grade squad to make it 22-8.
Keen to drive home the advantage, Holbrook sent Pangai back out to cause more damage, and the move almost worked with the Broncos powerhouse breaking the line with his first touch before turning over possession with a forced offload.
It would proved to be a costly error as a kick from Hingano wasn’t handled by Kangaroos fullback Dylan Edwards, allowing the Kiwis halfback to regather and score his second. Third choice kicker Jamayne Isaako stepped up to make it an eight-point game with 23 minutes to play.
The comeback looked on as No.9 Brandon Smith broke clear for the second time only for his pass to be put down by a flying Roache. It would be yet another turning point as the Aussies took full advantage to score their fifth try through classy five-eighth Nathan Cleary.
Controversy then struck as the Kiwis were denied what would have been the try of the afternoon.
An inside ball to Abbey put the No.1 in space before he somehow wedged the ball behind his back, offloaded to Hingano who passed while falling to the ground to send Isaako over only for the bunker to rule obstruction in the lead up.
The game was finally put to bed seven minutes from time as a break instigated by a Kelly kick return ended up with his inside man Robert Jennings doing a 360 spin to score his second try in as many years for the Junior Roos.
Pangai was denied what would have been a fairytale try in his third and final Test for the Roos before Siosifa Talakai barged over to end the scoring.
The only concern for the Junior Roos was late injuries to Edwards and Felise who were both forced off in the 68th minute.
Junior Kangaroos 34 (JJ Felise, Curtis Scott, Brian Kelly, Connor Watson, Nathan Cleary, Robert Jennings tries; Nathan Cleary 5 goals) Junior Kiwis 20(Ata Hingano 2, Ken Tofilau, Siosifa Talakai tries; Jamayne Isaako 2 goals); Half-time: 10-8
Michael Burgess, NZ Herald
All top sportspeople make sacrifices, but it’s hard to imagine many making them to the same degree as Kiwis Ferns forward Krystal Rota.
Rota, who was one of the standout players in the Ferns’ impressive 26-16 win over Australia in Newcastle on Friday night, estimates she has spent nine months in hospital over the last two years.
Her two year-old daughter Nikayla was born with a serious kidney condition, which requires her to spend long periods of time in hospital.
Despite this, Rota has kept up her sporting career, often training by herself in a field near the hospital.
“To be fair, I don’t know how she does it,” said coach Alan Jackson. “When her daughter is sleeping, she goes and trains at Cornwall Park, runs through One Tree Hill. What she is doing is pretty exceptional.”
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Two brilliant try assists from eventual Woman of the Match Georgia Hale has helped the Kiwi Ferns earn redemption over the Harvey Norman Jillaroos in their 26-16 win at Hunter Stadium.
Ferns five-eighth Hale’s efforts comes just three months after she was named woman of the series at the Auckland Nines following the Ferns’ 2-1 win over the Jillaroos.
The Ferns’ victory was the icing on the cake after they were defeated by the Jillaroos in the corresponding game last season – try-scoring doubles from skipper Sarina Fiso and Atawhai Tupaea contributing massively to the end result.The battle lines were drawn early when the Ferns’ one-out barnstorming style of play showed its worth against the free-flowing Jillaroos – the latter dominating possession in the opening exchanges.
It came at the expense of centre Corban McGregor (shoulder) after she was involved in a tackle gone wrong in the fifth minute. Maddie Studdon’s penalty goal two minutes later eased the pain slightly as the Jillaroos posted an early 2-0 lead.
The Ferns scored the game’s first try in the 11th minute – in just their second set – when winger Tupaea scored in the corner thanks to handy lead-up work by Fiso.
Tupaea was handed her second try on a silver platter when a magical two-woman cut-out ball from Hale allowed her to cross again six minutes later.
Not to be outdone, Jillaroos’ Studdon produced a two-woman cut-out ball of her own which found Samantha Bremner out the back for Australia’s first try in the 24th minute. The fullback’s four-pointer cutting the deficit back to two points.The Ferns would finish the half up 12-6 however when centre Maitua Feterika powered her way over the try-line from dummy half to score in the 33rd minute.
An error from Emma Young handed the Ferns good field territory early in the second half, which they were able to quickly turn into points. It came off the back of Hale once again whose inside ball to Fiso opened up the Jillaroos defence for the skipper to score.
The Jillaroos wouldn’t die wondering though, that including Karina Brown. The winger’s kick ahead for herself in the 50th minute came up trumps when a Fiso error allowed the winger to pick up the loose ball and score.
The Ferns extended their lead to 10 in the 64th minute when Fiso crashed her way over for her second try of the match after slicing her way through Studdon and Jillaroos skipper Ruan Sims to score.
Krystal Rota’s try four minutes later put the game out of reach for the Jillaroos when she reached over the try-line from dummy half to score.
Rota capitalised on Nora Maaka’s run prior when Jillaroos Sims and Kezie Apps head-clashed in the tackle, leaving the former injured on the ground.
Brown’s second try in the final three minutes helped the Jillaroos to a more respectable score though they would still go down by 10 points at game’s end.
Kiwi Ferns 26 (Atawhai Tupaea 2, Sarina Fiso 2, Maitua Feterika, Krystal Rota tries; Nora Maaka goal) Jillaroos 16 (Karina Brown 2, Sam Bremner tries; Maddie Studdon, Caitlyn Moran goals); HT: 12-6.
Akarana second row Annetta Nuuausala is poised to follow big brother Frank-Paul into a test jersey, with selection for the Kiwi Ferns team to contest next week’s Downer Test curtainraiser.
Coach Alan Jackson has named five test newcomers in his 18-strong group to take on archrivals Australia in Newcastle – all but one were part of the roster that defeated the Jillaroos at the NRL Auckland Nines in February.
Nuuausala is excited to continue her family name at international level. Frank-Paul Nuuausala (Kiwi #754), currently playing with the Canberra Raiders in the NRL, chalked up 15 tests for the national men’s side between 2009-13, including the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
“This means the world to me,” says Annetta (21). “After seeing my older siblings participate in sport and then to see my older brother reach this stage too, I thought I’d give it a go.”
Nuuausala made her national team debut at the Nines, a result that will boost the Kiwi Ferns, after losing last year’s Anzac Test in Brisbane.
“The Nines was a good experience,” she says. “I learned a lot from the campaign and took it back with me to my club footy.
“Now I think I’m better than I was last year and without that exposure, I wouldn’t be where I am today.”
Jackson admits the selection of this outfit presented some tough challenges.
“The selectors and I had a number of sleepless nights picking this team,” he says. “The quality of the players we have in the game in New Zealand at the moment is very, very good, making this a hard job, but we’re very happy with the 18 that we have.
“We’ve built since the Nines. The girls have been working very hard and we’re looking forward to this test match.
“The Aussies have very fast backs and very strong forwards that keep working all day, so it’s going to be a real challenge. They beat us by eight last year, so we’re looking for a little bit of revenge.”
The Kiwi Ferns team for the Downer Trans-Tasman Test curtainraiser is:
Coach: Alan Jackson Assistant coach: Grant Pocklington Manager: Anita Smith-McKinnon Trainer: James Delacey Physiotherapist: Sarah Fanuatanu Physio assistant: Sonya Rogers Technical support: Dan Keepa
Twenty-two players have been named in an extended Kiwi Ferns women’s squad to prepare for the test against Australia in Newcastle next month.
The fixture is scheduled as a curtain-raiser to the Downer Test Match between NZ Kiwis men and Australian Kangaroos on May 6.
The roster, which includes all the side that defeated Australia 2-1 at the NRL Auckland Nines in February, will be further trimmed to 18 before travelling across the Tasman.
The extended Kiwi Ferns squad is:
The world #1 NZ Kiwis will wear BLK jerseys into next year’s Rugby League World Cup campaign and beyond.
New Zealand Rugby League has confirmed a renewed four-year contract with the global sports apparel company that ends on December 31, 2019. The agreement will also cover the Kiwi Ferns women and Junior Kiwis programme.
The Kiwis men have worn the BLK (Beyond Limits Known) brand since 2012.
“We’re proud to continue our sponsorship of the world’s top-ranked New Zealand national rugby league team,” says BLK chief executive Tyron Brant.
“The Kiwis have a very clear strategy on how they want to lift their profile and BLK is excited to be part of that journey.”
In recent years, BLK and NZRL have produced an exciting range of merchandise for Kiwis fans around the world, and 2016 will be no different.
The latest offerings will be officially launched next month, as the Kiwis prepare to defend the Bill Kelly Cup and world #1 billing against Australia in Newcastle, May 6.
“Their unique team culture makes our Kiwis one of the iconic brands in New Zealand sport,” says NZRL commercial general manager Sarah Lewis.
“BLK has certainly helped us extend that design footprint internationally by bringing our culture to life with its distinct and innovative garments.
“The World Cup offers a great opportunity to develop that identity even more. We’re sure our passionate fans will find something in the next BLK release that will make it easy for them to show support for their team, whether that’s by wearing a replica jersey at our games or our styled casual gear away from the stadium.”
Canberra-based Ezra Howe will return to the Junior Kiwis programme this year as assistant coach to Kelvin Wright.
And former Kiwis prop Jerry Seuseu will make his staff debut with the NZ Rugby League international programme as manager.
Howe, the Canberra Raiders junior recruitment manager, filled the assistant role behind Wright for the JKs’ 2015 clash with the Junior Kangaroos at Gold Coast, won by the Australians 22-20.
Seuseu (Kiwi #692) played 11 tests for New Zealand between 2001-04 and, before that, four for Samoa at the 2000 World Cup.
He took the field 132 times for the Auckland Warriors between 1997-2004, including the 2002 Grand Final, and currently serves as welfare and education manager for the club.
He also played 40 times for Wigan Warriors in England.
The 2016 Junior Kiwis v Junior Kangaroos is scheduled for May 7 at Parramatta’s Pirtek Stadium, the day after the senior national teams meet at Newcastle.
The full Junior Kiwis staff is:
Head coach – Kelvin Wright
Assistant coach – Ezra Howe
Team manager – Jerry Seuseu
Trainer – Troy Herewini
Physio – Simon Keepa
New Zealand Rugby League has confirmed a 2016 national high performance calendar that includes a camp for NSW and Queensland-based 18s.
The Taurahere programme is designed to identify NZ-eligible players living in Australia and strengthen their loyalty to the black jersey.
Two years ago, a New South Wales-based side swept a two-game series against the NZ 18s in Rotorua.
This year, NZRL will bring the expats into a five-day camp on the Gold Coast in July, culminating in a trial game between the two states.
Other features of the calendar include the Kiwis defence of their Four Nations crown, national tournaments for schools, youth and women and the new-look district-based national senior competition.
At the culmination of the national competition, an NZ Residents side will be selected for a possible encounter with NZ Maori.
Still unconfirmed are fixtures for NZ 16s, NZ 18s and Secondary Schools national sides.
The 2016 NZRL national high performance calendar includes:
Tickets for the 2016 Anzac Test are available to the general public from noon NZ today through Ticketmaster.
The annual NZ Kiwis v Australia fixture will be staged for the second-to-last time at Newcastle’s Hunter Stadium on May 6, with a women’s curtainraiser between NZ Kiwi Ferns and Australian Jillaroos.
Individual general admission tickets cost just $35, with family passes at $95.
Pre-sale tickets to Knights club members opened Monday, while Anzac and Pacific Test seats were offered to NRL members yesterday.
Hunter Stadium has a standard capacity of 33,000 spectators.
The Pacific doubleheader at Parramatta, May 7, will see Tonga v Samoa and Fiji v Papa New Guinea, with an NZ Junior Kiwis v Australian Junior Kangaroos curtainraiser.
Adult ticket prices for this event start at $20, with a $60 family package also offered.
The Anzac Test will see the Kiwis defend the Bill Kelly Cup and the world #1 ranking against a Kangaroos outfit guided by Aussie legend Mal Meninga for the first time.
“The representative round will showcase some of the game’s best players, across our juniors, our women and of course our seniors,” says NRL head of football Todd Greenberg.
“In his time, so far, as part of the Kangaroos programme, Mal Meninga has brought some real passion to the jersey and I’m sure that will be replicated against the Kiwis.
“The Kiwis, on the other hand, have had some real success against the Kangaroos in recent times and will be looking to continue that dominance.”
Don’t delay … be among the first to claim your tickets here.
Incumbent Kelvin Wright has been confirmed for another term as head coach of the Junior Kiwis.
Wright headed off a field of eight applicants and a high-class short list of four to keep the role that he filled in 2015, when he steered the national 20s side to a narrow 22-20 loss to the Junior Kangaroos at the Gold Coast.
He had previously been assistant coach under now-NZRL high performance manager Brent Gemmell and coaches the Junior Warriors in the NRL’s National Youth Competition.
Wright has also benefitted greatly from filling an analyst role with the Kiwis, under head coach Stephen Kearney.
“Kelvin was well prepared and showed a high degree of planning in his interview,” says Gemmell. “His previous campaign experience and his full-time involvement with this age group at the Warriors gave him an edge over his rivals for this job.”
Wright’s term is for 2016, with an option for another year. He will now assist in the process for appointing further JK coaching staff and team management.
The Junior Kiwis are scheduled to face the Junior Kangaroos in their annual fixture at Parramatta’s Pirtek Stadium on Saturday, May 7.
New Zealand Rugby League is seeking applicants for NZ Junior Kiwis staff – head coach, assistant coach, manager, trainer and physio.
All appointments will be for the 2016 season, with a right of renewal for a second year based on performance.
This year’s campaign consists of one scheduled fixture against Junior Kangaroos at Parramatta on May 7, but is also an important stepping stone for players aspiring to the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.
Applications to NZRL high performance manager Brent Gemmell (brent@nzrl.co.nz) by Friday, February 19.
