Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRL) New Zealand team Whutupōro Rīki Whaikaha o Aotearoa were crowned Trans-Tasman Challenge Champions on Saturday beating rivals Australia at Go Media Stadium in the first ever PDRL match between the two countries on New Zealand soil. 

Played as a curtain raiser to the thrilling Kiwis versus Tonga Pacific Championships match, the tough game didn’t disappoint with back and forth tries to both teams setting up a nail-biting finish. Down two points with only minutes left on the clock, the New Zealand team didn’t panic, showing determination to set up a match-winning try down the sideline to clinch the game 20-18.  

PDRL NZ Team Manager Sandra Hickey said, “The win was an amazing testament to the drive and determination that Whutupōro Rīki Whaikaha o Aotearoa Kiwi squad have displayed throughout the entire campaign.  

“To come away as the winners of the first international test at home between New Zealand and Australia PDRL will go down in history.” 

Offering those with a physical disability the opportunity to play the great game, the rules are adapted to allow those involved to play safely. Some players play the touch form of the game, meanwhile, others will play full contact. They are differentiated by the colour of their shorts with red signally a touch only player and black full contact. 

After making the final in PDRL World Cup final in 2022, falling short only to England, Whutupōro Rīki Whaikaha o Aotearoa are now hoping the tournament will be held again, alongside the RLWC2026 in Australia and Papua New Guinea.  

This would give the team a big focal point over the next few years with sights firmly set on taking out the crown.