Australia, considered favourites for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, fought back to defeat New Zealand 24-22 in a thrilling opening match. The game, witnessed by over 40,000 fans in Sydney, saw Australia overcome an early deficit.
Jack Bostock marked his Kangaroos debut with a hat-trick of tries, including the decisive score in the final five minutes. His performance included an interception try and two tries from aerial battles.
New Zealand's Kalyn Ponga scored twice but left the field injured with his left arm in a sling at full time. Australia's Reece Walsh also scored a long-range try and was named player of the match.