Match Detail
Scorers
- Paul Ulberg (8)
- Davvy Moale (23)
- Esan Marsters (35)
- Marata Niukore (38, 65)
- KL Iro (50)
- Brendan Piakura (52)
- Cassius Cowley (56, 76)
- Mason Teague (73)
- Rua Ngatikaura (79)
Goal Kicks
- Esom Ioka: 3/5
- KL Iro: 1/1
- Esan Marsters: 3/5
Coach Comments
South African coach Darryl Fisher admits Cook Islands will be heavy favourites for Sunday’s IRL Rugby League World Cup 2026 qualifier at CommBank Stadium but is excited by the talent in the Rhinos squad.
Cook Islands and South Africa will compete for the final spot in next year’s World Cup hosted in Australia and Papua New Guinea. The Cook Islands team boasts several NRL and Super League stars, led by KL Iro, Brendan Piakura, and Marata Niukore.
Meanwhile, the South African Rhinos consist of players from state competitions across NSW, Queensland, and Western Australia, as well as local talent. This includes Niel Beukes, a former Storm and Cowboys triallist who will make his international debut after playing Super Rugby with the Pretoria-based Blue Bulls.
“The squad is looking pretty good, they have been training really well and they are in good shape,” Fisher said. “We are well aware of the level of opposition we are up against, but it is an opportunity for our players to play guys at that level. If they put their best foot forward and play to their capabilities, they will give themselves a chance.”
“I certainly can’t ask any more of them in terms of their preparation and effort to get ready for the game. I am impressed by how they are looking and if they can manage the physical pressure.”
The match promises to showcase contrasting squads—one stacked with international league stars, the other with promising state-level and regional talents eager to prove themselves.
Author’s summary: The Cook Islands enter as strong favorites with star players, while South Africa's Rhinos aim to rise to the challenge with a well-prepared squad keen to prove their abilities on the Rugby League World Cup qualifier stage.