National team

Kangaroos, will begin their 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign on home soil against New Zealand on 15 October in Sydney. Australia are the reigning world champions and one of the leading favourites to win the tournament again, with further group matches against Fiji and the Cook Islands. The Kangaroos will be targeting another World Cup title in front of a home crowd.

Australia head into the 2026 Rugby League World Cup with a strong mix of experience, speed and attacking talent. James Tedesco, Reece Walsh and Dylan Edwards provide plenty of quality in the backline, while Cameron Munster and Sam Walker are expected to play important roles in creating chances and controlling the attack. Up front, Payne Haas, Harry Grant, Isaah Yeo and Liam Martin form the core of a powerful forward pack, giving Australia a strong platform through the middle.

Australia