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Find your frequencyStacey Jones: Kiwis success vital as Pacific rivals attract New Zealand-raised talent
Sport Nation • October 14th, 2026 5:11 pm
Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones | Photo: Robbie Stephenson/Photosport
Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones says success on the world stage is vital as New Zealand faces growing competition to retain players who are also eligible to represent other nations.
The coach says many players who grow up in Aotearoa are choosing to switch allegiance and therein lies a constant battle to keep the talent on New Zealand shores but this year's World Cup could be an opportunity to solidify their status.
“We're in a battle to keep players with us that can play for Samoa, Tonga and other Pacific nations," Jones told media at captains run ahead of their clash with the Kangaroos.
Former Kiwis captain and Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak has recently changed allegiances to Tonga, however the likes of Jacob Laban will represent New Zealand following approval from his Samoan chief father.
Warriors winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak will now represent Tonga in the Rugby League World Cup | Photo: Alex Whitehead/Photosport
Fullback Kalyn Ponga has made the jump from the green and gold of Australia and will wear the black jersey for the first time on Thursday evening.
Jones said Ponga, who arrives with confidence after a strong finish to the NRL season with Newcastle, is a game-changer.
“What he did for the Knights this year and particularly the back end of the season where he carried them to a grand final, obviously had a lot of support around him but he's got a lot of confidence in his game at the moment.
“We're just lucky that we've got him on our side and we had a really good fullback last year and he's going to be waiting for an opportunity too in Keano (Kini), so we're very lucky that we've got those players in our squad.”
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Jones believes the increasingly competitive international game makes it more important for the Kiwis to perform.
“The international game is strong with how many teams can potentially win it.
“I think the team that comes out on top is the team that's probably going to do the little things really well.
“There's no secret about rugby league, you defend well and you run hard with the footy, you generally come out on the top, so we'll do our best in that area, but we know that they're world- class teams.”
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