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Kiwi Ferns name star-studded World Cup squad
Sport Nation • October 6th, 2026 7:00 pm
Kiwi Ferns | Photo: David Neilson/Photosport
The Kiwi Ferns will chase a fourth Rugby League World Cup title with a squad blending experienced internationals several potential debutants, and former Australian representatives.
Coach Ricky Henry’s squad will be led by co-captains Georgia Hale and Raecene McGregor, who was named Dally M Halfback of the Year.
Cross-code stars Stacey Waaka and Tenika Willison are also named, alongside potential debutants Kaiyah Atai, Chantay Kiria-Ratu, Shannon Mato, Trinity Tauaneai and Zahara Temara.
Shannon Mato is also set to represent the black jersey after representing the Jillaroos 2022-2025, before switching allegiance to New Zealand.
Meanwhile Gayle Broughton, Tiana Davison and Kennedy Cherrington (who also recently changed allegiance) were not featured in the 23-woman squad.
Kennedy Cherrington on her proud Māori heritage | Scotty & Izzy
The Kiwi Ferns open their campaign against Fiji in Newcastle on October 18, before facing France in Christchurch on October 25 and Papua New Guinea on the Gold Coast on October 31.
"We are really excited for this campaign. The depth of Kiwi talent we had to select from made this a tough decision, but we ave absolute faith in these women we have named to pull on the jersey this year," said Henry in a statement.
“The way our last World Cup ended has lit the fire and hunger to go one better this time, and I believe we have the team to do that.”
Kiwi Ferns Rugby League World Cup squad:
Brooke Anderson, Kaiyah Atai, Annessa Biddle, Brianna Clark, Georgia Hale, Mele Hufanga, Chantay Kiria-Ratu, Ivana Lauitiiti, Shannon Mato, Raecene McGregor, Shaniece Monschau, Apii Nicholls, Shanice Parker, Otesa Pule, Ashleigh Quinlan, Abigail Roache, Alexis Tauaneai, Trinity Tauaneai, Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa, Zahara Temara, Leianne Tufuga, Stacey Waaka, Tenika Willison
