In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY LEAGUE — New Zealand Rugby takes the Australian Rugby League Commission to court over NRL using the Chiefs brand for its Papua New Guinea expansion side
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — SP Lager joins PNG Chiefs as major partner
3. WEIGHTLIFTING — 70 lifters for Fiji Day showdown
4. GOLF — Stage set for Fiji Golf Open 2026
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Spencer Leniu inks four-year Eels deal; Wahs re-sign Berry
6. RUGBY — Australia Men’s quartet re-sign with Sevens programme
7. RUGBY — Wallabies coach Kiss gives Nawaqanitawase update ahead of Union return
8. RUGBY — ‘Not about me’: Rennie prepares for Wallabies reunion
9. RUGBY — All Blacks team named for First Bledisloe Cup Test
10. RUGBY — Wallabies back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on wing for first Bledisloe Cup Test against All Blacks
NZ – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
New Zealand Rugby takes the Australian Rugby League Commission to court over NRL using the Chiefs brand for its Papua New Guinea expansion side
WELLINGTON, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—The battle for the NRL’s Papua New Guinea expansion side to be called the Chiefs is set to be decided by a judge after New Zealand Rugby filed proceedings in the NZ High Court.
NZR said it was forced into legal action after being unable to “engage constructively” with the Australian Rugby League Commission over the past 12 months to work towards a resolution.
New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Lancaster says “we now have a responsibility to protect the Chiefs brand”. Getty
The NRL franchise is set to officially unveil the Chiefs’ logo and jersey at a launch in PNG later this month, which coincides with a Rugby League World Cup match in Port Moresby on 24 October.
The rugby governing body is seeking both an interim and final injunction to stop the ARLC from using the names “PNG Chiefs”, “Chiefs” or any other similar names in New Zealand.
NZ Rugby said it had owned both the trademark rights for the word Chiefs and the Chiefs logo since 1998, used by the Hamilton-based team in Super Rugby. It also said it held trademark protection for the franchise’s logo in Australia.
NZ Rugby said it raised concerns with the ARLC when the expansion side’s name was confirmed in October 2025, leading up to their 2028 start in the NRL, but with no “positive outcome” had to take legal steps.
“For 30 years the Chiefs and their players have built an incredibly strong identity that is widely recognised and loved by fans,” NZR chief executive Steve Lancaster said in a statement.
“We have raised our concerns with the ARLC directly and consistently over the last year in attempting to find a resolution. We now have a responsibility to protect the Chiefs brand.
“We want to be absolutely clear, this is not about rugby league’s growth in the Pacific. We welcome the development of the Pacific region through sport and the passion that the people of Papua New Guinea have for both rugby and rugby league.”
NZ Rugby said using “Chiefs” for the expansion team would cause “significant confusion and damage”, as both brands would be playing and trading in the same markets.
The organisation claimed the view was shared by IP Australia, the Australian government agency that administers intellectual property rights, which warned of a “real and tangible danger of confusion” when the ARLC applied for trademark protection for “PNG Chiefs”…..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
SP Lager joins PNG Chiefs as major partner
PORT MORESBY, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The PNG Chiefs have welcomed SP Lager as a major partner – further strengthening the iconic Papua New Guinean brand’s long-standing connection to rugby league and communities across the country.
The three-year partnership will see SP Lager feature on the back of the PNG Chiefs’ playing shorts in the club’s inaugural NRL season in 2028 and in 2029, with additional support of the club in its pre-Foundation period throughout 2027.
As major partner, SP Lager will operate as the club’s exclusive alcoholic beverage provider and will hold exclusive pourage rights in corporate areas at PNG Chiefs home fixtures in Papua New Guinea – subject to venue arrangements.
The partnership will also see the SP Lager logo feature prominently in stadium signage and media backdrop branding, while also providing hospitality, ticketing, digital integration and match day activation opportunities.
SP Lager has a long-standing connection with rugby league in Papua New Guinea including grassroots competitions, while its national reach will provide the opportunity to connect the PNG Chiefs with supporters across the country.
SP Lager and the PNG Chiefs will additionally work together on responsible drinking messaging and social outcomes as part of the framework, including key initiatives addressing domestic violence reduction across the country.
“SP Lager is a brand that has been part of Papua New Guinea for generations and its connection with rugby league and communities across the country makes this a strong partnership for us,” PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said.
“We know how important our commercial partners will be in helping us build a long-term sustainable club, and the reach, experience and genuine understanding of Papua New
Guinea which the SP Lager brand has will be a huge asset to us.”….PACNEWS
FIJI – WEIGHTLIFTING: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
70 lifters for Fiji Day showdown
SUVA, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Weightlifting Fiji will celebrate Fiji Day with a major championship expected to attract up to 70 lifters at the National Fitness Centre in Suva on Saturday.
The Fiji Day Weightlifting Championships will run from 8am to 2pm, with free entry for spectators.
Commonwealth Games gold medallist Taniela Rainibogi, Mini Games bronze medallist Daniel Shaw and two-time Fiji Young Female Athlete of the Year Mereia Turaganivalu headline the elite session, which starts at 8am.
The event will also mark the inaugural Fiji Secondary Schools Weightlifting Championships, with Lomary Secondary School, Ballantine Memorial School, Gospel High School and Navosa Central College competing.
“We expect a tough competition and an interesting one on Saturday,” Weightlifting Fiji head coach Henry Elder told SUNsports.
”All athletes will look to break their personal best and even push their limits.”
Levuka Public School will hold its own competition in Levuka under the guidance of Weightlifting Fiji vice-president Eremasi Qaibau.
The final session will feature Weightlifting Fiji’s Youth and Junior Development Squad, with several lifters having represented Fiji at the 2026 Oceania Championships in Samoa.
Officials said this would be one of the organisation’s biggest competition turnouts in recent years.
The championships will showcase established competitors while giving emerging lifters an opportunity to test themselves….PACNEWS
FIJI – GOLF: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
Stage set for Fiji Golf Open 2026
SUVA, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The stage is set for three days of fierce competition as the Fiji Golf Open 2026, presented by Vonu, tees off today at the Fiji Golf Club in Vatuwaqa, Suva.
The country’s leading amateur and professional golfers will battle for honours in one of Fiji’s premier golfing events, with last year’s champions returning to defend their titles.
National Golf president Ricky Locke said the tournament would provide a strong test for the country’s best golfers.
“We are expecting some great golf and plenty of healthy rivalry amongst our leading players. There is a strong field, and with last year’s champions returning, they will certainly have their games tested,’ Locke said.
Shakeel Pillay and Raina Kumar claimed the respective amateur titles last year, while experienced professional Vikrant Chandra won the professional category.
All three return this year, setting the benchmark for a field eager to challenge for the 2026 titles.
Locke acknowledged the major sponsors and corporate partners whose support has helped make the tournament possible.
“On behalf of National Golf, I would like to sincerely thank Vonu for coming on board as our major sponsor and for their continued support of this event,” he said.
He also acknowledged Vonu brand manager Maxine Edwards for her role in bringing the partnership together.
Locke thanked supporting sponsors BSP and Goodman Fielder, saying their contribution was vital
to staging a tournament of the required standard.
“Events of this level require strong partnerships, and their contribution helps us provide a tournament worthy of the players competing and the history of the Fiji Golf Open,”” he said.
“The Fiji Golf Open is about more than simply winning a title. It is an opportunity to bring our golfing community together, showcase our best players and continue building the game in Fiji,” he said.
He encouraged supporters and golf enthusiasts to turn out and back the players throughout the championship.
The Fiji Golf Open 2026 tees off today at Suva Golf Club, with three days of quality golf, rivalry and a battle for national honours ahead…..PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
Spencer Leniu inks four-year Eels deal; Wahs re-sign Berry
SYDNEY, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (NRL)—The Eels have signed four-time premiership winner Spencer Leniu to a four-year deal commencing in 2027.
The 26-year-old is fresh off securing grand final glory with the Roosters, taking his tally to four titles after previously winning three as a Panther.
Since debuting in 2019 as an 18-year-old at Penrith, Leniu has racked up 143 NRL appearances along with seven Tests for Samoa and six Origins with NSW.
“We’re thrilled to have Spencer join the Parramatta Eels and become part of what we’re building at this club. He’s one of the elite middle forwards in the game and has consistently performed on the biggest stages throughout his career,” said Eels general manager of football Mark O’Neill.
“We’re excited to welcome Spencer and his family into the Eels community. We know he’ll make a tremendous contribution both on and off the field, and we can’t wait to see him in blue and gold.”
The Bulldogs have secured the services of hooker Freddy Lussick on a two-year deal for the 2027 and ’28 seasons.
The 26-year-old made his NRL debut in 2020 and has chalked up 73 games across stints with the Roosters, Dragons, Warriors and Panthers.
“We recognised that we needed more depth at hooker and Freddy fills that void perfectly,” said Bulldogs General Manager of Football Phil Gould.
“He’s a specialist hooker and will bring valuable experience to the squad.”
Knights youngster Connor Votano is also headed for Belmore after inking a two-year deal with the Bulldogs.
The 20-year-old fullback made his NRL debut in Round 24, 2025 before enjoying a successful season in NSW Cup in 2026, notching seven tries and 15 try assists in 17 games as the Knights progressed to the preliminary final.
The Central Coast product has also represented the NSW Under 19s side in 2024 and 2025.
The Warriors have re-signed centre Rocco Berry on a one-year deal for 2027.
After bringing up his 50-game milestone last year, Berry’s 2026 season was restricted to six appearances for the club’s NSW Cup side.
“We know the player Rocco can be and we’re committed to giving him every opportunity to return to his best,” said Warriors general manager recruitment, pathways and development Andrew McFadden.
“While he has faced challenges along the way, Rocco has shown how resilient he is as he does all he can to return to the NRL.”
Meanwhile, South Sydney have announced the extension of utility Tallis Duncan for a further three seasons, at least until the end of the 2030 season.
Duncan, 24, made his NRL debut with the Rabbitohs in Round 13, 2023, against the Raiders, going on to play 73 first grade games so far in his career.
“I’m really happy to be staying at Souths. I love this club and this is my home,” Duncan said.
“I’ve grown a lot since I first came to the Club and I’m grateful for everything Souths has given me. I’m looking forward to continuing that journey here.”
The club have also announced the extension of forward Brandon Smith until the end of the 2028 season.
Smith says it was an easy decision for him to remain at the Rabbitohs.
“Me and my partner have found a home here at the South Sydney Rabbitohs,” Smith said.
“I always wanted to play in these colours, and being able to do that for another couple of years makes me very happy.”
Wests Tigers have announced the signing of experienced utility Kurt Mann on a one-year deal for 2027.
Mann has previously played at the Melbourne Storm, St George-Illawarra Dragons, Newcastle Knights and most recently the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs.
A tough, versatile player, Mann will be an invaluable addition to the Tigers team with his ability to cover several positions.
At the Sharks, promising centre Michael Gabrael has inked a new deal through to the end of the 2029 season.
An Eels junior who arrived at the Sharks ahead of the 2024 season via the Bulldogs, Gabrael earnt an NRL debut in 2026 as a result of his performances for the Jets, with Sharks General Manager Football Darren Mooney confident his best is yet to come.
“Michael is still only 21, but he has now spent three years in our full-time program. During that time, he has worked hard, continued to develop his game, and thoroughly earned his opportunity to make his NRL debut late this season,” Mooney said.
The Storm have confirmed the signing of outside back Adam Pompey on a two-year deal after he was granted a release from the final year of his contract at the Warriors.
After playing 136 NRL games across eight seasons for the Warriors and scoring 39 tries, the 28-year-old will join the Storm for pre-season training ahead of the 2027 campaign.
“Adam is an experienced player who has shown his value at the Warriors, bringing significant first-grade expertise while also proving himself as a valuable pointscorer,” said Storm director of football Frank Ponissi
“We look forward to having Adam join us for pre-season training and seeing him contribute to our playing squad, both on and off the field. We also thank the Warriors for allowing Adam to join the club for the 2027 season.”
Dolphins stars Selwyn Cobbo and Kulikefu Finefeuiaki have signed contract extensions in a major boost on the eve of next week’s preliminary final
Finefeuiaki joined the Dolphins from the Cowboys in 2025 and has been a big part of the club’s charge to its first ever finals campaign. He has now put pen to paper on an extension through to the end of 2029.
The 22-year-old has played 80 NRL games and two Test matches for Tonga.
“What I think has been most impressive about Kuli’s rise in our squad has been his transformation as a player,” said Dolphins CEO Terry Reader.
“His work to turn himself into an 80-minute player on the edge who now plays State of Origin has been extremely impressive.”
Cobbo’s deal is an even bigger result, the outside back inking a four-year deal that locks him down to the end of 2031.
“Selwyn has made an immediate impact since joining the Dolphins and what he has been able to produce in his first season at the club has been remarkable,” Reader said.
“It is clear the environment has really suited him and he is enjoying his football – and Selwyn’s performances are underlining that.
“At just 24 years of age we know there is still plenty of great football ahead of him, and we’re excited that will be in a Dolphins jersey.”
The Dolphins have also promoted Lewis Symonds, Zac Garton and Kilarney Lavender to their Top 30 for 2027.
Symonds and Garton have extended their time at the Dolphins through to the end of 2028, while Lavender has committed his long-term future to the club through to the end of 2030.
A standout for the Dolphins’ NRLQ Under 21 side, Lavender’s versatility has been a major asset throughout the season, stepping into a number of positions when called upon…..PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
Australia Men’s quartet re-sign with Sevens programme
SYDNEY, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia Men’s Sevens players Ben Dalton, Beau Morrison, Brody Folkes and Bailey Roberts-Lintmeijer have re-signed with the program for the 2026/2027 season.
Dalton and Morrison have committed for another 12 months in the top squad while Folkes and Roberts-Lintmeijer have agreed to new development contracts.
Dalton, 24, has come through the Eastwood system in Sydney while playing school rugby at St Josephs in Hunters Hill.
He’s been part of the NSW Waratahs Youth sides as a teenager alongside Sevens teammate Ben Dowling and Wallaby Joseph Aukuso-Suaalii.
Dalton moved to the ACT Brumbies system in 2021 before being identified by former coach John Manenti.
He made his HSBC SVNS debut in Dubai (2024), becoming a mainstay in the side as it navigates through the new cycle towards the 2028 Olympics.
Morrison, 21, made his HSBC SVNS debut in Cape Town last year after earning his first full-time contract with Rugby Australia.
The emerging forward came through had a taste of Rugby Sevens when he was a ball kid during the Sydney 7s competition in 2016.
He spent time playing for the Warringah Rats and Narrabeen Tigers before moving to Knox Grammar, where he played his senior rugby for Sydney University.
Folkes joined the Australia Sevens program last season before suffering an ACL injury, which he continues to rehabilitate ahead of the new campaign.
The teenager has previously played for the Australian U18s in both Sevens and XVs rugby.
Roberts-Lintmeijer, 19, will return for a second season on a developmental contract with the program as he eyes a debut in the future.
Director of High Performance Peter Horne said: “Ben has been in the program for a couple of years now and has found consistency in his game. He is growing in the Sevens space and will only get better ahead of the Olympics.
“Beau has a great first season in the Sevens program before injury got him before the World Championship but we expect him to play a greater role next season.
“Brody is on the comeback after a knee injury and we are supportive of getting him back on the field and developing him in both formats of the game.
“Bailey is a promising talent with lightning speed and it’s only a matter of time before we see him on the field in open space.”
The Australia Men’s Sevens program returned to pre-season training on Monday ahead of the Kick on 7s in Sydney and historic quadruple header at Accor Stadium on 17 October….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
Wallabies coach Kiss gives Nawaqanitawase update ahead of Union return
SYDNEY, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Wallabies coach Les Kiss kept his distance during Mark Nawaqanitawase’s barnstorming NRL farewell but will reconnect with the outstanding winger.
The Sydney Roosters’ premiership highlight reel signed off on a two-year stint in historic fashion as the first player since Reg Gasnier almost 70 years ago to score multiple tries in three consecutive finals games.
His exhilarating play had tongues wagging and the NRL community hopeful he would return to the code after a two-year stint with the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan’s League One.
There is a Rugby World Cup on home soil before that and Nawaqanitawase is shaping as a mouth-watering addition to a side currently on a six-game unbeaten streak.
The 26-year-old said last month he had no plans to play again until the League One season, keen to domesticate himself given it will be the first time he has lived alone.
But with the Wallabies’ Nations Championship Tests to come – they play England, Scotland and Wales in November before the inaugural finals weekend – he can expect a call from Kiss.
“I haven’t heard back from him yet, but we’ll see,” Kiss joked as he theatrically reached for his phone during a press conference ahead of Saturday’s Bledisloe Cup opener against the All Blacks in Auckland.
His arrival would create a selection battle though, with Tom Wright at fullback, Max Jorgensen on one wing and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii seemingly settling into a role on the opposing flank.
But Nawaqanitawase’s stellar form has positioned the former Commonwealth Games and Olympics sevens representative, who has 11 Test caps, as a must-have.
“I’ll just let it settle for this week and then have some conversations and see where it goes,” Kiss said of his approach.
If he doesn’t feature in the November window it would drastically shorten the runway ahead of next year’s World Cup, although the Wallabies do play seven Tests in 2027 – including a one-off Anzac Day Bledisloe Cup – before the World Cup.
The coach, like Nawaqanitawase a former Australian Kangaroos rugby league winger, has largely left him alone, except for one cheeky text.
“I won’t know (if he will tour) until I chat to him,” he said. “I had one chat to him in the early part of the season then said I’d leave him alone.
“I did text him during State of Origin and said ‘don’t play well against Queensland’.
“I’ve kept a clear mind on that part, but he’s obviously a flavour at the moment for sure,” he said…. PACNEWS
NZ – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
‘Not about me’: Rennie prepares for Wallabies reunion
AUCKLAND, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Dave Rennie insists no there’s bitterness as the former Wallabies coach prepares for the unprecedented scenario of coaching against them for the All Blacks.
The New Zealand mentor admits he’s feeling the pressure to defend the side’s remarkable 40-year, 23-game Eden Park unbeaten streak against Australia on Saturday.
The All Blacks are undefeated in 53 Tests at Eden Park, since 1994.
Unceremoniously axed as Wallabies coach to make way for Eddie Jones before the 2023 World Cup, New Zealander Rennie spent time in Japan before taking over from Scott Robertson for the All Blacks this year.
The Wallabies bombed out of the World Cup and Jones quit to join Japan, with Joe Schmidt taking charge and now Les Kiss at the helm with the revived side on a six-game unbeaten streak.
Eleven members of the current Wallabies squad debuted under Rennie, who helmed the side for 34 Tests.
“It’s not about me,” Rennie, the first man to coach both the All Blacks and the Wallabies, said of his brutal Australian exit.
“I’ve got no regrets, got to work with some really good people, people I have a lot of time for.
“It’s a part of a game that we’re involved in. I’ve loved coming back here … we’re highly motivated, but it’s not about me.”
The hosts, holders of the Bledisloe Cup since 2003 and unbeaten in their last 11 Tests against Australia, have endured their share of setbacks ahead of the Auckland opener.
Gun flyhalf Richie Mo’unga (calf) and form winger Fehi Fineanganofo (concussion) have joined a mounting injury list that includes Ruben Love, regular captain Ardie Savea and Patrick Tuipulotu.
Rennie resisted any temptation to debut Chiefs playmaker Josh Jacomb at No.10, instead shifting Damian McKenzie from fullback into the role and naming veteran great Beauden Barrett in the No.15.
Barrett’s brother Scott, fresh off a non-playing sabbatical in which he dealt with foot and back injuries, has come straight into the starting second row.
Blockbusting loose forward Shannon Frizell will come off the bench in his first Test since concluding his Japanese club rugby deal.
Quinn Tupaea is also back from injury to partner third Barrett brother Jordie in the midfield.
The Wallabies have recalled Isaac Henry at outside centre, with Len Ikitau cleared of an ankle injury and moved to the No.12 to replace the suspended Hunter Paisami.
That’s the only change to the starting side that beat South Africa in Perth, although Kiss has added playmaker Declan Meredith in a bench shake-up that sees Massimo De Lutiis and Nick Champion de Crespigny also included.
“Keeping consistency in the starting side gives us a solid foundation, while adding some freshness on the bench will provide energy late in the game,” Kiss said.
“There aren’t many tougher challenges than playing New Zealand at Eden Park, but it’s one we’re excited by and know that we will need to be at our best in all aspects of our game.”
Australia’s winning ways have grown belief, with in-form flanker Fraser McReight insisting this week the pressure of continuing the incredible Eden Park record must also wear on the All Blacks.
“We talk about it … you’ve got to acknowledge (it),” he said.
“No one wants to be part of the first team for a long time to lose at Eden Park, or lose the Bledisloe.
“I think if we don’t discuss it, some guys will be still mulling over that on game day,” he said …PACNEWS
NZ – RUGBY: SUPER RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
All Blacks team named for First Bledisloe Cup Test
AUCKLAND, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (SUPER RYGBY)—All Blacks Head Coach Dave Rennie has named his team to play Australia at Eden Park in Auckland on Saturday 10 October in the first Bledisloe Cup Test.
Hooker Codie Taylor will captain the All Blacks in the first Test of the Bledisloe Cup series and is joined in the front row by props Ethan de Groot and Fletcher Newell.
Lock Scott Barrett returns to the starting line-up for the first time since November 2025, joined by Josh Lord in the second row. Tupou Vaa’i, Peter Lakai and Wallace Sititi make up the loose forward trio.
In the backs, Cam Roigard will start at halfback, while Damian McKenzie starts at first five-eighth for the first time this season. Quinn Tupaea returns from injury to join Jordie Barrett in the midfield. Leroy Carter and Will Jordan will play on the wings, while Beauden Barrett starts at fullback for his 150th match for the All Blacks (he has played 145 Tests and four games so far).
Hooker Asafo Aumua and props George Bower and Pasilio Tosi provide front row cover from the bench, alongside loose forwards Shannon Frizell and Anton Segner, halfback Kyle Preston, and outside backs Rieko Ioane and Josh Moorby.
“The Bledisloe Cup means a huge amount to this group. There’s a lot of history and pride tied up in it, and every Test against the Wallabies carries real weight for us,” Rennie said.
“We have huge respect for this Australian side and the way they have been playing. We know we’ll need to be at our best.
“We’ve been on the road for the last eight games, so the boys are rapt to be home and really looking forward to running out at Eden Park one last time this year.”
All Blacks match-day 23:
(Test caps in brackets):
1 Ethan de Groot (45)
2 Codie Taylor (112) – Captain
3 Fletcher Newell (41)
4 Scott Barrett (89)
5 Josh Lord (17)
6 Tupou Vaa’i (51)
7 Peter Lakai (14)
8 Wallace Sititi (23)
9 Cam Roigard (24)
10 Damian McKenzie (81)
11 Leroy Carter (10)
12 Jordie Barrett (85)
13 Quinn Tupaea (29)
14 Will Jordan (61)
15 Beauden Barrett (145)
Replacements:
16 Asafo Aumua (26)
17 George Bower (29)
18 Pasilio Tosi (17)
19 Shannon Frizell (33)
20 Anton Segner (2)
21 Kyle Preston (5)
22 Rieko Ioane (89)
23 Josh Moorby (5)…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: THE GUARDIAN PACNEWS SPORT: Fri 09 Oct 2026
Wallabies back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on wing for first Bledisloe Cup Test against All Blacks
SYDNEY, 09 OCTOBER 2026 (THE GUARDIAN) —Australia coach Les Kiss called up rookie Isaac Henry and retained star back Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii on the wing in a settled team named Thursday to face New Zealand.
Four-Test Queensland Reds midfielder Henry will start at outside centre in the first Bledisloe Cup Test at Eden Park on Saturday, two months after making his debut against Japan in Osaka.
The return of 27-year-old Henry is the only change to the starting side who upset South Africa 42-38 in Perth two weeks ago.
Inside centre Hunter Paisami received a four-week ban for a high tackle against the world champions and is not available.
Len Ikitau, who scored two tries in Perth at outside centre, passed a fitness test on an ankle injury and has moved in one place to wear the No 12 jersey.
Kiss resisted the urge to restore Suaalii to the midfield, where he has played the majority of his 25 Tests.
Instead the rugby league convert will remain on the left wing, where he shone in the extra space against the Springboks, most notably with his prowess under the high ball.
The starting pack is the same but there are a number of changes among the replacements.
Two key bench forwards from Perth – flanker Tom Hooper and prop Taniela Tupou – have returned to their clubs in Europe as the two-match Bledisloe Cup series falls outside World Rugby’s international window.
Young prop Massimo de Lutiis and back-rower Nick Champion de Crespigny come onto the bench, along with hooker Josh Nasser.
Fly-half Declan Meredith is also on the bench, with Kiss going from a 6-2 to a 5-3 forwards-backs split.
Kiss is unbeaten in his first five Tests since succeeding former coach Joe Schmidt, registering four wins and a draw.
Isaac Henry trains with the Wallabies in Auckland
Injury setbacks for the All Blacks have opened the door for the Wallabies to end a 40-year Eden Park curse.
Gun flyhalf Richie Mo’unga and form winger Fehi Fineanganofo were on Thursday both ruled out of the Bledisloe Cup opener.
Mo’unga tore his calf muscle at training on Tuesday and will miss Saturday’s Auckland Test as well as next week’s rematch in Sydney.
Fineanganofo, who scored a record 17 tries for the champion Hurricanes in the last Super Rugby Pacific season, failed concussion tests that he’d initially passed after suffering a head knock in club rugby.
He had been eyeing his first start of the Test season against the Wallabies, while Mo’unga had taken the reins from Ruben Love when the No 10 hurt his ankle during the South Africa series.
Captain Ardie Savea (shoulder), Luke Jacobson (elbow), Anton Lienert-Brown (knee), Billy Proctor (shoulder), Caleb Clarke (shoulder), Ollie Norris (knee) and Patrick Tuipulotu (calf) are also sidelined by injury.
All Blacks coach Dave Rennie resisted any temptation to debut Chiefs playmaker Josh Jacomb at No 10, instead shifting Damian McKenzie from fullback into the role and naming veteran great Beauden Barrett in the No 15.
Barrett’s brother Scott, fresh off a non-playing sabbatical in which he dealt with foot and back injuries, has come straight into the starting second row.
Wallabies: Tom Wright; Max Jorgensen, Isaac Henry, Len Ikitau, Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii; Ben Donaldson, Ryan Lonergan; Harry Wilson (capt), Fraser McReight, Rob Valetini; Jeremy Williams, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto; Allan Alaalatoa, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Angus Bell. Replacements: Josh Nasser, Aidan Ross, Massimo De Lutiis, Lachlan Shaw, Nick Champion de Crespigny, Tate McDermott, Declan Meredith, Harry Potter…..PACNEWS
