Brief
Kiwis’ heavyweight forward pack set to test Kangaroos in World Cup opener
New Zealand’s forward pack, featuring Naufahu Whyte and James Fisher‑Harris, is billed as the strongest in the world ahead of Thursday’s match.
By Felo News Desk · Published
New Zealand’s forward pack, described by several commentators as the strongest in the world, will face Australia in the Rugby League World Cup opener at Allianz Stadium on Thursday night, according to SMH.
What happened
The article notes that the Kiwis will field props Naufahu Whyte, James Fisher‑Harris, Moses Leota and Joseph Tapine. It also mentions that Australia’s pack is missing Lindsay Collins through injury, leaving Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Keaon Koloamatangi and Patrick Carrigan as the remaining midfielders.
What the reports add
SMH cites NRL premiership‑winning coach Shane Flanagan saying, “There’s no stronger forward pack.” Former England forward James Graham added that the four New Zealand props could fill the world’s top four prop positions. The piece also points out that Whyte was named in the Dally M team of the year and that he helped the Roosters win the 2026 NRL title.
What was said
James Fisher‑Harris, the Warriors captain, told SMH he does not focus on media chatter, saying, “I don’t really care what everyone is saying… we need to get to work, bro.” Joseph Tapine echoed the sentiment, stating, “You can’t just rely on a paper team, we’ve got to go out and deliver.” Moses Leota referenced a hit by Kalyn Ponga on a Panthers prop in the preliminary final, calling Ponga “a humble dude.” Naufahu Whyte said, “Honestly … we come in with no thought of being the big dog… once we put this black jersey on, there’s no ego.”
How it came about
The article references the relaxation of international eligibility rules that allowed players such as Kalyn Ponga to switch allegiance to New Zealand, a development covered by Felo News on 9 October. It also follows earlier reporting on Australia’s free‑agency deadline on 6 October, which could affect squad stability later in the tournament.
Key facts
- New Zealand will start the Rugby League World Cup with a forward pack of Naufahu Whyte, James Fisher‑Harris, Moses Leota and Joseph Tapine. (smh.com.au)
- Australia’s forward pack is missing Lindsay Collins due to injury, leaving Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, Keaon Koloamatangi and Patrick Carrigan as the remaining midfielders. (smh.com.au)
- Shane Flanagan called the Kiwis’ forward pack the strongest in the world. (smh.com.au)
- James Fisher‑Harris said he ignores media speculation and focuses on work. (smh.com.au)
- Naufahu Whyte was named in the Dally M team of the year and helped the Roosters win the 2026 NRL title. (smh.com.au)
Sources
- [1] smh.com.au — originally reported as “Rugby League World Cup 2026: Australia vs New Zealand, Naufahu Whyte, James Fisher-Harris ready to take on Kangaroos”
