Australia’s Kangaroos edged New Zealand’s Kiwis 24–22 in a gripping Rugby League World Cup opener at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium on Thursday 15 October, with debutant Jack Bostock’s late hat-trick try sealing a victory worthy of a final.
A classic from the start
The trans-Tasman rivals delivered an intense, high-quality contest, trading tries and momentum across 80 minutes before a crowd of 41,255. It was the largest crowd for a Sydney Test since 1974 and Sydney’s biggest World Cup crowd since 1968.
New Zealand struck first through Casey McLean, but Australia responded with the attacking flair and defensive grit expected of the defending champions. Bostock announced himself on the international stage with three tries, while Reece Walsh helped create the decisive late score.
Kalyn Ponga gave the Kiwis hope with two second-half tries, but his night ended early with a suspected broken arm. New Zealand still had chances to reclaim the lead, yet Bostock rose highest for a spectacular aerial finish with four minutes remaining, putting Australia ahead 24–22.
The Kiwis launched one final assault, but the Kangaroos held firm to begin their World Cup defence with a narrow, hard-earned win.
A test of appetite
More than a result, the match was a powerful test of what appetite fans have for international rugby league. The near-capacity atmosphere, fierce rivalry and national significance suggested the appetite is strong, provided tournaments continue to showcase matches of this standard.
Australian captain Isaah Yeo said international rugby league “feels like it is growing,” while Kiwis skipper James Fisher-Harris called it the best Australia–New Zealand atmosphere he had experienced.
If the rest of the tournament matches Thursday’s drama, rugby league may have rediscovered one of its greatest assets: a genuine international stage.
