BREAKING: Kiwis unveil red-hot squad as superstar duo’s big allegiance switch confirmed

The New Zealand Kiwis have named a star-studded squad as they look to win their first Rugby League World Cup since 2008.

Coached by Kiwis legend Stacey Jones, the squad includes some big inclusions headlined by Newcastle Knights star duo Dane Gagai and Kalyn Ponga.

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Yet to play for New Zealand, the duo pledged their allegiance to the nation following change this year to the State of Origin and international eligibility rules.

A former Dally M Medallist, Ponga will contend with Keano Kini for the No.1 jersey despite previously playing for the Queensland Maroons and is set to make his international debut in the Kiwis first match against Australia.

Approved by the International Rugby League (IRL) board to change his allegiance in March, Ponga first sparked controversy in late-2024 when he refused to play for the Kangaroos.

The announcement came a surprise to most but the fullback, who dreamed of playing for the All Blacks when he was younger, never saw himself wearing another country’s jersey other than New Zealand.

On the other hand, Gagai has represented Australia on seven occasions (2017-18) in the past, the IRL board have also approved his switch to the Kiwis.

Jacob Laban and Tanner Stowers-Smith are the other possible debutants.

“We’re very excited for this World Cup campaign. We’ve been building towards this over the past few years, and winning the Pacific Championships last year was a big step in that journey,” said coach Stacey Jones.

“I’m confident in this squad. We’ve got a good mix of experienced players who have been part of the team for a long time, and some new blood who all bring great talent.”

James Fisher-Harris will remain the captain of the squad and will be joined in the forward pack by Dally M Prop of the Year Naufahu Whyte and two-time Dally M Lock of the Year Erin Clark.

The backline is also incredibly exciting with Jahrome Hughes returning to the side after missing last year’s international due to injury, while NSW Blues centre Casey McLean and 2026 Top Pointscorer Jamayne Isaako have also been named.

Kalyn Ponga (Newcastle Knights)

Ronaldo Mulitalo (Cronulla Sharks

Casey McLean (Penrith Panthers)

Dane Gagai (Newcastle Knights)

Jamayne Isaako (Dolphins)

Jahrome Hughes (Melbourne Storm)

Moses Leota (Penrith Panthers)

Jeremy Marshall-King (Dolphins)

James Fisher-Harris (c) (New Zealand Warriors)

Isaiah Papalii (Penrith Panthers)

Erin Clark (New Zealand Warriors)

Joseph Tapine (Canberra Raiders)

Te Maire Martin (New Zealand Warriors)

Naufahu Whyte (Sydney Roosters)

Scott Sorensen (Penrith Panthers)

Briton Nikora (Cronulla Sharks)

Leo Thompson (Canterbury Bulldogs)

Keano Kini (Gold Coast Titans)

Xavier Willison (Brisbane Broncos)

Tanner Stowers-Smith (New Zealand Warriors)

Jacob Laban (New Zealand Warriors)

Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (New Zealand Warriors)