# Rugby League World Cup 2026 tournament

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rugby-league-world-cup-2026-tournament
> Updated: 2026-10-23T23:39:56.000Z. Sources: 12. Developments: 2.

The tournament began with the Kiwi Ferns securing a narrow 18-12 victory over Fiji in their opening match at McDonald Jones Stadium. Despite Fiji leading 12-4 in the first half, New Zealand recovered in the second half to win in the final minutes.

In the men’s competition, New Zealand faced a setback following a 24-22 opening defeat against Australia. To remain in contention for the knockout stages, the Kiwis prepared for a match against the Cook Islands in Christchurch. The New Zealand squad entered this fixture with changes to the lineup, including Keano Kini replacing the injured Kalyn Ponga.

## Claims

- New Zealand lost their opening Rugby League World Cup match to Australia 24-22. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Kalyn Ponga will miss the match against the Cook Islands due to a broken arm. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Valentine Holmes will make his debut at full-back for the Cook Islands. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The match between New Zealand and the Cook Islands will take place in Christchurch. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- The Cook Islands lost their opening match against Fiji. (corroborated by 2 sources)
- Karmichael Hunt is the team boss for the Cook Islands. (single source)

## Timeline

### 2026-10-23: New Zealand prepares for Cook Islands clash in Christchurch

New Zealand faces the Cook Islands in Christchurch for the Rugby League World Cup 2026, needing a win to stay in contention for the knockout stages following an opening loss to Australia.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/new-zealand-prepares-for-cook-islands-clash-in-christchurch

### 2026-10-16: Kiwi Ferns edge Fiji 18-12 in Rugby League World Cup opener

New Zealand's Kiwi Ferns narrowly escaped an upset by debutant Fiji, winning 18-12 in their Rugby League World Cup opener in Newcastle.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/papua-new-guinea-and-lebanon-face-off-in-rugby-league-world-cup-opener

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Cite as: Rugby League World Cup 2026 tournament. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rugby-league-world-cup-2026-tournament