Panthers teammates will go head-to-head for international rugby league’s biggest prize when Australia and New Zealand meet in the 2026 Rugby League World Cup final at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.
Casey McLean, Moses Leota, Isaiah Papali’i and Scott Sorensen have been named in New Zealand’s squad after the Kiwis booked their place with a 34-10 semi-final victory over Tonga. McLean crossed for a crucial second-half try as New Zealand overturned an early deficit to secure their spot in the decider.
Liam Martin and Kangaroos captain Isaah Yeo have both been named to start for Australia, with Lindsay Smith included among the reserves. The Kangaroos advanced with a commanding 44-12 win over Samoa, setting up a rematch of the nations’ opening-round clash.
Australia v New Zealand
- Date: Sunday 15 November
- Kick-Off: 7:35pm AEDT
- Venue: Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane
Australia
1. Reece WALSH
2. Jack BOSTOCK
3. Kotoni STAGGS
4. Bradman BEST
5. Tom TRBOJEVIC
6. Cameron MUNSTER
7. Tom DEARDEN
8. Patrick CARRIGAN
9. Harry GRANT
10. Tino FA'ASUAMALEAUI
11. Jacob PRESTON
12. Liam MARTIN
13. Isaah YEO (c)
14. Ethan STRANGE
15. Keaon KOLOAMATANGI
16. Cameron MURRAY
17. Reuben COTTER
18. Latrell MITCHELL
19. Sam WALKER
20. Blayke BRAILEY
21. Lindsay SMITH
22. James TEDESCO
New Zealand
1. Kalyn PONGA
2. Jamayne ISAAKO
3. Dane GAGAI
4. Casey McLEAN
5. Ronaldo MULITALO
6. Kodi NIKORIMA
7. Jahrome HUGHES
8. James FISHER-HARRIS (c)
9. Jeremy MARSHALL-KING
10. Moses LEOTA
11. Isaiah PAPALI'I
12. Briton NIKORA
13. Joseph TAPINE
14. Te Maire MARTIN
15. Naufahu WHYTE
16. Erin CLARK
17. Xavier WILLISON
18. Keano KINI
19. Phoenix CROSSLAND
20. Charnze NICOLL-KLOKSTAD
21. Scott SORENSEN
22. Leo THOMPSON
