Australia Beats New Zealand in Rugby League World Cup Opener

Australia rallied from an early deficit to defeat New Zealand 28-24 in the opening match of the Rugby League World Cup on Saturday. Jack Bostock delivered a standout performance, scoring three tries that turned the tide for the Kangaroos after they trailed at halftime.

The win gave Australia a crucial opening‑round point and highlighted their depth, while New Zealand fought back valiantly but fell short despite a strong second‑half surge. Bostock’s hat‑trick marked the first such feat in a World Cup opener since the tournament’s inception, underscoring the high‑stakes drama of the competition.

Why It Matters

Rugby league is a major sport in Australia and New Zealand, and the tournament draws significant viewership across the Commonwealth, influencing international sports markets.