In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — World Rugby Nations Cup heads to the Americas in July for inaugural 2026 edition
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — PM Marape welcomes PNG Chiefs CEO Peters
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG PM: Government support limited to policy, resources and sponsorship for Chiefs
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — Chiefs launch major recruitment drive, No shortage of quality NRL players, says Chammas
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Storm star’s first words after emergency surgery as terrifying details of stroke revealed
6. FOOTBALL — Vanuatu advance to OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026
7. FOOTBALL — Host Tonga finish with a win
8. FOOTBALL — Solomon Islands much improved against St Kitts & Nevis
9. FOOTBALL — New Zealand down South American opposition
10. RUGBY LEAGUE — Samoa star Papalii bound for Broncos
11. RUGBY — Wallaroos delighted to lock in Canberra happy hunting ground after Fijiana win
12. IRONMAN — No coach, no bike, no excuses: Aria Ite proves Pasifika power rising
13. RUGBY — ‘Good luck to him’: Reds roll out Lomax welcome mat
14. NETBALL — New Zealand netball pulls plug on bid for Super expansion
15. RUGBY LEAGUE — Isaako eyes strong finish in final Dolphins season
IRELAND – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
World Rugby Nations Cup heads to the Americas in July for inaugural 2026 edition
DUBLIN, 01 APRIL 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—World Rugby has unveiled the match schedule for the inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup, set to take place throughout July and November 2026, with the tournament first-ever fixture taking place in Montevideo on 4 July as Uruguay host Georgia.
Currently ranked 15th and 13th respectively in the World Rugby Men’s Rankings, the two nations promise a highly competitive and compelling opener to the first edition of the competition, setting the tone for a new global era of international rugby.
The competition sees the 12 unions who qualified for Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 compete in a structured environment designed to accelerate competitiveness and create certainty of meaningful annual test fixtures with revenue opportunities. The exciting schedule balances geographic spread, player welfare, logistics cost and developmental opportunity, providing fans with clarity, teams with certainty, and unions with commercial opportunities.
These nations represent rugby’s most exciting growth markets, many of whom have made significant strides in recent years through dedicated pathways, increased investment, and record levels of supporter engagement. The Nations Cup gives them an annual platform to test themselves against comparable opposition, refine systems, and optimise experience ahead of Australia 2027.
A format mirroring the Nations Championship
The 12 participating unions will compete in two pools of six, reflecting the structure of the top division, the Nations Championship, and ensuring a consistent, meaningful calendar across the July and November international windows.
Pool A – Americas & Pacific pool – features Canada, Chile, Samoa, Tonga, Uruguay, and the USA, bringing together fast‑growing unions across both hemispheres.
Pool B – Europe, Asia & Africa pool – comprises Georgia, Hong Kong China, Portugal, Romania, Spain, and Zimbabwe, creating a competitive cross‑regional group with diverse playing styles and passionate supporter bases.
Each team will face every other team within the other pool in a full round‑robin format spanning both windows. Match points will combine into a single standings table, and at the end of November the top‑ranked union in each pool will be crowned the inaugural Nations Cup champions. This structure guarantees equal opportunity, competitive balance, and a compelling year‑long narrative for fans and unions alike.
18 matches split evenly across North and South America
Across a landmark month of July, fans will be treated to 18 test matches staged in some of the most passionate and fast developing rugby regions in the Americas. From major North American sports hubs to vibrant South American rugby cities, supporters can immerse themselves in compelling rivalries and back-to-back fixtures in Denver, Santiago, Montevideo, Edmonton, and Winnipeg, transforming each venue into a true rugby festival and delivering exceptional value for fans throughout the window.
Unprecedented global content in North America
North America will play a central role in the inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup, with the United States and Canada hosting a combined nine fixtures that showcase the breadth and diversity of emerging rugby nations. Denver, Charlotte, and Cary will host premium international action, including the global‑flavoured Tonga v Zimbabwe encounter, which not only highlights rugby’s expanding reach but will also be a Men’s Rugby World Cup 2027 Pool F fixture next year.
Canada’s schedule spans Edmonton and Winnipeg, where local supporters will enjoy elite men’s internationals featuring the national team and visiting sides across five compelling matchups. Together, these fixtures represent some of the most exciting content delivered to North America in a single July window, offering fans unprecedented access to global competition while creating vital momentum as the region builds toward hosting Men’s Rugby World Cup 2031 in the United States.
Bespoke support of Pacific Nations
To ensure equitable opportunity for Pacific unions, Tonga and Samoa will be proactively supported by World Rugby to accommodate for playing Nations Cup fixtures outside their home territories.
This approach is designed to deliver financial stability, support long-term development, and ensure that both unions benefit from the global exposure of the competition while maintaining sustainable structures for the future.
In parallel to the Nations Cup, World Rugby is providing tailored operational support to Fiji as they prepare for their July Nations Championship fixtures.
Ensuring strong alignment between competitions is critical to the success of the new global calendar, and targeted support will help Fiji make the most of the expanded competitive opportunities available in the UK where they will play fixtures in Wales, England and Scotland.
A new identity designed for global reach
The new logo introduced for the World Rugby Nations Cup 2026 celebrates the ambition, unity, and upward momentum of the game’s most promising nations as their journeys converge on the global stage.
The World Rugby shield embodies the competitive spirit of the 12 participating teams, each rising line representing a nation striving to elevate its performance, strengthen its identity, and earn the opportunity to be promoted into the Nations Championship. The mark reflects both tradition and transformation, capturing a tournament built on growth, opportunity, and the future of the sport.
World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson said: “The inaugural World Rugby Nations Cup is a major milestone for the global game. The competition is creating unprecedented opportunities for these promising teams to test themselves, build experience, inspire supporters home and away, and grow their commercial footprint. Staging the first half of the tournament across the Americas reflects the enormous potential of the region, from the deep passion of South American fans to the outstanding venues and growing interest in the North. This is a tournament built on growth, connection, and the belief that every union should have a clear pathway to compete and thrive at the highest level.”
The November schedule, forming the second half of the Nations Cup 2026 and played in Europe and Asia, will be announced in due course. This window will help complete a full year of competitive fixtures for emerging nations, providing them with the same consistency and intensity that Men’s Six Nations and Rugby Championship teams have historically enjoyed.
All matches will be available either through domestic broadcast partners or on RugbyPass TV, ensuring global accessibility for fans following their teams. This hybrid model maximises reach, supports commercial growth, and reinforces rugby’s commitment to providing free-to-air access in underserved markets….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
PNG PM: Government support limited to policy, resources and sponsorship for Chiefs
PORT MORESBY, 01 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has promised that the PNG Chiefs “will operate independently of political influence, with Government support limited to policy, resources and sponsorship mobilisation”.
The prime minister’s statement came yesterday following Sunday’s confirmation of Willie Peters as the inaugural PNG Chiefs head coach. Simultaneously, Peters promised the prime minister to create something special for a united Papua New Guinea ahead of the 2028 NRL season.
While welcoming Peters’ appointment, Marape also acknowledged the backing of NRL leaders Peter V’landys and Andrew Abdo, saying their confidence in PNG’s bid was vital, and pledged to drive national sponsorship and supporter networks to ensure the team’s sustainability.
Looking ahead, the prime minister highlighted the importance of strong player development pathways linking the PNG Hunters, schools, domestic competitions, and Pacific talent pools.
“We want a strong core of Papua New Guinean players, supported by the best talent available,” he said.
“With the coach now secured, it is system go as we move towards assembling our team for 2028.”
Meanwhile, coach Peters said his family is eager to relocate and become part of the Papua New Guinea rugby league community.
“I look forward to building strong relationships with everyone and earning your trust,” Peters said.
“What excites me is the ability the Chiefs can have to impact the whole country off the field. Together, as one united country, we can achieve something special.
“We have special times ahead, both on and off the field.
“I’m very proud to be your head coach for 2028 and beyond. Let’s do this together.”
Papua New Guinea Kumuls legend Stanley Gene described Peters as a proven winner with the right experience to lead the expansion side.
Gene said Peters’ background as a former playmaker gives him a strong understanding of the game, especially in key decision-making roles.
“I played against him, and he was very good,” Gene said.
“For a coach to achieve so much in a short space of time, the record speaks for itself.
“He’s taken on challenges before and succeeded,” he said…. PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
PM Marape welcomes PNG Chiefs CEO Peters
PORT MORESBY, 01 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape has hailed the appointment of Willie Peters as the inaugural head coach of the PNG Chiefs, describing it as a “major and decisive step” towards Papua New Guinea’s historic entry into the NRL in 2028.
Marape said Peters’ selection followed a transparent international recruitment process led by the club’s board in partnership with the NRL.
“The appointment of a head coach is a crucial step in building a competitive team,” he said, commending the leadership for ensuring professionalism and credibility.
Currently coaching Hull KR in the English Super League, Peters brings extensive experience in elite rugby league.
Marape noted his success abroad and commitment to relocate to PNG with his family ahead of the club’s debut season.
“This is the type of leadership we need as we build towards 2028,” he said. The prime minister stressed that the Chiefs’ leadership framework is now complete, with the board, CEO, team manager, and coach in place.
He said the club will operate independently of political influence, with Government support limited to policy, resources, and sponsorship mobilisation.
Marape acknowledged the backing of NRL leaders Peter V’landys and Andrew Abdo, saying their confidence in PNG’s bid was vital. He pledged to drive national sponsorship and supporter networks to ensure the team’s sustainability.
Looking ahead, Marape highlighted the importance of strong player development pathways linking the PNG Hunters, schools, domestic competitions, and Pacific talent pools.
“We want a strong core of Papua New Guinean players, supported by the best talent available.
“With the coach now secured, it is system go as we move towards assembling our team for 2028,” he said….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
PNG Chiefs launch major recruitment drive, No shortage of quality NRL players, says Chammas
PORT MORESBY, 01 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —Papua New Guinea Chiefs chief executive officer Lorna McPherson confirmed that the club has begun building its off-field team as part of a major recruitment drive.
McPherson said the franchise is in its first phase of hiring, with plans to recruit about 19 administrative staff this year as the foundation of the organisation takes shape.
“We’ve got a lot going on. We are in the process of recruiting our admin staff in this first phase,” she said.
“This year, we’re expecting to have around 19 members of staff join the Chiefs.
“We are also setting up our systems and making sure we deliver on all our KPIs (key performance indicators).”
She said the club is working hard behind the scenes to ensure everything is in place ahead of their long-awaited debut, adding that there is strong excitement about what lies ahead.
“It’s a historic day and something I’m really proud of. It’s another step in the right direction for where we are going,” McPherson said.
She praised the appointment of Peters, describing it as a major win for the club.
“We’ve got an amazing coach; one that many other clubs were looking at. We are really honoured to have someone of Willie’s calibre joining the Chiefs,” she said.
McPherson highlighted Peters’ leadership, passion for rugby league, and strong connection to culture as key qualities that stood out during the recruitment process.
“Getting to know him, his passion for the game, for culture, and his leadership ability is second to none.”
Meanwhile, there is no shortage of quality National Rugby League players and agents showing interest in joining the PNG Chiefs, says general manager football Michael Chammas.
“I’ve reached out to many players in the last six weeks and met with a lot of agents,” Chammas said. “There’s really no shortage of quality players who want to come. We are confident that we will be competitive from our first season in 2028.”
While Chammas did not name specific targets due to NRL recruitment rules, he confirmed the club is actively building its player list through early discussions.
He also stressed that the Chiefs are determined to be competitive from day one, rejecting any idea that the team would simply “make up numbers” in their debut season.
“We’re confident that in year one, we’re not just making up numbers.”
Chammas said one of the biggest advantages for the PNG Chiefs is the strong appeal of playing in Papua New Guinea, despite the tough conditions such as heat and travel.
“We all feel that attracting people to Port Moresby is not going to be an issue,” he said.
The Chiefs are also looking beyond the NRL for talent, with head coach Willie Peters expected to play a key role in recruiting from the Super League and lower divisions in England.
Chammas praised Peters’ experience overseas, saying his knowledge of English rugby league is a major asset for the new franchise.
“His understanding of the Super League is second to none. He’s done a fantastic job at Hull KR,” he said.
According to Chammas, the club believes global recruitment approach, combined with strong NRL interest, would help build a balanced squad capable of competing when the Chiefs enter NRL in 2028….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: FOX NEWS PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Storm star’s first words after emergency surgery as terrifying details of stroke revealed
MELBOURNE, 01 APRIL 2026 (FOX NEWS)–Melbourne Storm veteran Tui Kamikamica is set to be discharged from hospital after suffering a suspected stroke on Monday morning.
The 31-year-old Fijian international is in his tenth season at the club, but his immediate playing future is uncertain while he remains in hospital.
However, The Daily Telegraph reports that Kamikamica, who is in a stable condition, is expected to be discharged in the coming days as he prepares to step up his rehabilitation.
Speaking to The Daily Telegraph, his agent Jeff Jurotte revealed Kamikamica’s wife found him mid-seizure at 3am and called an ambulance.
“She got him to hospital and they found that he had a blood clot,” he told CODE Sports.
“The clot was at the front of the head – they went through the groin and removed it straight away.
“He’s out of intensive care and back into a ward. They’ve got to keep him there for the next two or three days and assess him.”
Kamikamica has been an important part of their middle forward rotation and signed a new deal in January for the 2026 campaign, with the veteran coming off the bench on Saturday night in the loss to North Queensland.
The club confirmed the incident on Monday.
“Melbourne Storm can confirm that forward Tui Kamikamica is currently in hospital following a medical episode on Monday morning,” the statement read.
“He has undergone treatment for a suspected stroke and is recovering in hospital. Tui is receiving the best possible care and is being supported by hospital specialists, alongside the club’s medical staff.
“The club asks that Tui’s privacy is respected at this time. Further updates will be provided when appropriate.”
Speaking on NRL 360, Kamikamica’s former Storm teammate Nelson Asofa-Solomona revealed that “he’s all smiles” following the incident.
“Tui’s a tough guy, he doesn’t show a lot of emotion,” Asofa-Solomona said.
“Look, when I saw him he wasn’t angry that he’d had a stroke, he was more angry that he couldn’t play this weekend.
“That’s just Tui. He’s staying strong. It’s too early to have any answers, but he’s all smiles.”
The injury blow is a further setback for the competition heavyweights who are already without superstars Eli Katoa (head knocks) and Xavier Coates (Achilles).
The Storm were beaten in the last two grand finals and are coming off consecutive losses after blowing big leads.
Their depth will be tested in the coming weeks, with young gun Cooper Clarke likely to be given a bigger role as coach Craig Bellamy tried to navigate what has become a very tough period for the club.
But the on field stuff takes a back seat to Kamikamica and his health as he and his family go through their battle…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Vanuatu advance to OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026
NUKU’ALOFA, 01 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—Vanuatu have secured their place in OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026, coming from behind to defeat the Cook Islands 3-1 at Loto-Tonga Soka Centre in Nuku’alofa.
Having scored 26 goals through their first two matches at the tournament, Vanuatu again showed their attacking prowess against the Cook Islands, putting pressure on in the first-half through the attacking duo of Franso Shem and leading goalscorer Rohan Masauvakalo.
The Cook Islands compact defence remained resolute though, and their resilience was rewarded in the 37th minute when Taianu Williams met Tereaurahi Te Tini’s cross to score his second goal of the tournament and give the Cook Islands the breakthrough.
A response came eight minutes later from Vanuatu, finally breaking through the stubborn Cook Islands defence in the 45th minute. Captain Russel Ala Leo won the ball in the mid-field, before threading a neat ball in-behind for Franso Shem to finish and level the contest.
Vanuatu resumed their attacking pressure after the break forcing opposing goalkeeper Tearii Scheel into two strong saves.
Knowing a draw would be enough to advance, Vanuatu slowed down as the second-half wore on – leaving their opponents to chase the game. They completed the comeback in the 80th minute, with Shem assisting substitute Titus Robert to put Vanuatu ahead.
Shem completed his double late in second half stoppage-time, latching onto another pass in-behind the Cook Islands defence for Vanuatu’s third goal of the afternoon.
The result secures Vanuatu’s spot at OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 in Papua New Guinea in July – where they’ll join Group B of the competition alongside New Zealand, Solomon Islands, and Tahiti.
Vanuatu: 3 (Franso SHEM 45′, 90+2′, Titus ROBERT 80′)
Cook Islands: 1 (Taianu WILLIAMS 37′)
HT: 1-1…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Host Tonga finish with a win
NUKU’ALOFA, 01 APRIL 2026 (OFC)–Tournament hosts Tonga capped their home campaign with a 5-1 victory over American Samoa in the final fixture of OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 – Qualifying.
Already eliminated after defeats in their two previous matches, both teams entered the contest in search for their first win of the campaign. Sione Matakaiongo and Derric Tupou were the stars of the show for Tonga though, both scoring a brace to help lead the hosts to the win.
The first half was a lively affair, with both sides enjoying periods of possession. American Samoa created the more threatening chances through Addai Talauega and Kyle Dela Cruz, but it was Tonga who broke the deadlock in the 26th minute.
Sione Matakaiongo opened the scoring with a clinical finish from close range, and just three minutes later Tonga doubled their lead when Derric Tupou pounced on a rebound to put the hosts up 2-0.
A surging midfield run from Teu Fong created another opening, delivering a neat pass to Matakaiongo who slotted home confidently for his second and Tonga’s third in the 36th minute.
Still in the fight, American Samoa found their first and only goal of the tournament through Robert Maifala, who struck from outside of the box to give his side some confidence heading into the break.
It proved in vain though, as two second-half goals sealed the victory for Tonga. Derric Tupou fired home his second goal, finishing a well worked move from captain Sioeli Veatupu immediately after the break, before substitute Kilismasi Fiu rounded out the win with a powerful strike in the 85th minute to seal the result for the hosts.
Tuesday’s win means hosts Tonga finish OFC U-16 Men’s Championship 2026 – Qualifying in third, with American Samoa in fourth.
American Samoa: 1 (Robert MAIFALA 43′)
Tonga: 5 (Sione MATAKAIONGO 26′, 36′, Derric TUPOU 29′, 47′, Kilisimasi FIU 85′)
HT: 3 – 1 ..PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Solomon Islands much improved against St Kitts & Nevis
JAKARTA, 01 MARCH 2026 (OFC)—Solomon Islands’ first international match against CONCACAF opposition has ended in a 4-2 defeat to St Kitts & Nevis in their final FIFA Series™ match at the Galora Bung Kano Stadium in Jakarta, Indonesia.
Having fallen to their largest defeat of the century just three days earlier against Bulgaria, the Solomons rallied to deliver a much improved performance in just their second match under new head coach Ben Cahn.
Omari Sterling-James gave the Caribbean nation the lead on the half-hour mark, but the Solomon Islands briefly levelled in the 37th minute when Don Keana raced onto a long ball in-behind and rounded the opposing goalkeeper for his first senior international goal.
It remained level at 1-1 for just seven minutes though, captain and goalkeeper Phillip Mango spilling the ball into his own net just before the break.
Liverpool youngster Kyle Kelly extended St Kitts & Nevis’ lead in the 75th minute with a sumptuous long-range strike, before Junior Fordney also scored his first international goal in the 85th to keep the Solomon Islands in sight.
St Kitts & Nevis finally shook off the Bonitos in the 87th minute, Harry Panayiotou rounding out the scoring with his nation’s fourth.
The result means the Solomon Islands finish fourth in their FIFA Series™ tournament in Indonesia with two defeats from their two fixtures. The tournament has provided them with valuable exposure to European and Caribbean opposition though, and Ben Cahn’s side will be much better for the experience moving forward into the new cycle.
St Kitts & Nevis: 4 (Omari STERLING-JAMES 30′, Own Goal 44′, Kyle KELLY 75′, Harry PANAYIOTOU 87′)
Solomon Islands: 2 (Don KEANA 37′, Junior FORDNEY 85′)
HT: 2-1..PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
New Zealand down South American opposition
AUCKLAND, 01 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—New Zealand have defeated South American opposition for the first time, beating Chile 4-1 in their final home warm-up game as part of the FIFA Series™ before FIFA World Cup 2026.
Following a frustrating 2-0 defeat to Finland three days earlier, the All Whites bounced back with one of their best performances in recent times at Eden Park in Auckland – finally defeating a South American nation at their 20th attempt.
A second yellow card for Chilean attacking midfielder Dario Osorio in the 27th minute provided a huge for the hosts, reducing Chile to 10 men for just over an hour of the contest.
New Zealand took advantage, scoring twice before the break to propel themselves into an unassailable lead. Both came from set-pieces, Kosta Barbarouses opening the scoring in the 31st minute with his tenth senior international goal, and Elijah Just adding the second in the 44th minute following a lengthy VAR check.
The All Whites kept their foot on the throttle in the second half, Jesse Randall scoring his first goal against a nation outside of Oceania in the 60th minute, and Ben Waine rounding out the scoring off the bench with New Zealand’s fourth in the 71st.
Chile added a late consolation via Gonzalo Tapia to give their passionate supporters something to cheer, but it proved in vain as New Zealand recorded a famous win in front of their home fans before the FIFA World Cup™ in June.
Monday night’s win means New Zealand have finished second in their home FIFA Series™ event behind Finland. All eyes are now firmly fixed on the global finals, with the All Whites confirmed to play England in a final warm-up game on June 7, before opening their FIFA World Cup 2026™ campaign against Iran at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on June 15.
New Zealand: 4 (Kosta BARBAROUSES 31′, Elijah JUST 44′, Jesse RANDALL 60′, Ben WAINE 71′)
Chile: 1 (Gonzalo TAPIA 83′)
HT: 2-0
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Samoa star Papalii bound for Broncos
BRISBANE, 01 APRIL 226 (NRL)—Premiers Brisbane have signed Queensland Origin and Samoan representative Tavarna Papalii on a two-year deal through to the end of the 2027 season.
The 20-year-old joins from the Roosters, where she made her NRLW debut in 2024 and played eight games in their premiership-winning campaign.
The versatile utility suffered a broken jaw in Game Three of the 2025 women’s Origin series but made it back in time to feature in the Pacific Championships with Samoa.
“Tavarna is an exciting young talent who is only scratching the surface of her potential, and that’s been built on consistent hard work and effort,” said Broncos coach Scott Prince.
“I’m confident she’ll complement our squad and program this season and continue to add value into the future.”
Dragons back-rower Hannah Southwell has put pen to paper on a contract extension through to the end of the 2027 season.
The 27-year-old was a part of the club’s inaugural squad back in 2018 before stints at the Roosters and Knights. She made her return to the Red V in 2025 and appeared in nine matches, taking her career tally to 44 NRLW games.
“I’m really excited to be back at the Dragons for the next two seasons,” Southwell said.
“I’ve loved coming back into the club and building strong relationships with the girls and staff.
“The squad’s heading in a great direction and I’ve got a lot of belief in what we’re building. I’m looking forward to getting back out there and doing my part to help push the club back to where it belongs.”
The Sharks have re-signed Jillaroos forward Ellie Johnston and Maroons playmaker Georgia Hannaway to one-year extensions.
Both players were under contract for 2026 but have inked new deals that will see them remain in the Shire until at least the end of the 2027 season.
Johnston has played 33 of her 48 NRLW matches for Cronulla, where she has established herself as one of the game’s most powerful and consistent forwards.
“I’m so grateful to be able to spend another year at the Sharks,” said Johnston, who ascended to the starting NSW Sky Blues and Jillaroos line-ups in 2025.
‘Cronulla is my home away from home and it’s exactly where I want to be.
‘I’ve been at the Sharks since 2023 and I’ve grown so much as a player and a person.’
Hannaway arrived at Cronulla in 2024, earning the club’s NRLW Rookie of the Year award and helping the team reach their maiden grand final.
Equally at home in the halves or at hooker, Hannaway has racked up 20 games for the Sharks across the past two seasons and made her Origin debut in 2025.
“Re-signing with the Sharks was a no-brainer for me,’ Hannaway said.
“I love the club, I love the team and I love being in the Shire.
‘I absolutely love the culture and positive energy we have in this team. I really adore the way we all light up when we see each other.
“This year I’m excited for us to take our game to the next level and show everyone what Sharks footy is made of.”
The North Queensland Cowboys have upgraded Cook Islands representative Lydia Turua-Quedley to their top 24 squad, signing her up until the end of the 2027 season.
Normally a halfback, Turua-Quedley debuted in the NRLW with the Warriors last season, also playing hooker and coming off the interchange.
Meanwhile, Kiwi Ferns stars Angelina Teakaraanga-Katoa and Alexis Tauaneai are set to return to the Dragons in 2027.
Teakaraanga-Katoa proved a revelation during her two seasons as a Dragon growing into a leader of the forward pack en route to a Kiwi Ferns debut at the end of 2023.
Tauaneai, who will reunite with sisters Trinity and Paige, also debuted for St George Illawarra in 2023 and along with Teakaraanga-Katoa moved to the Bulldogs last season.
The pair shared St George Illawarra’s 2024 NRLW Player of the Year Award.
“I’m looking forward to next season with the Dragons. It’s familiar territory for me, but this decision certainly wasn’t easy,” Teakaraanga-Katoa said.
“It’s an exciting period ahead for the Dragons and I’m excited to meet the new girls as well as the familiar faces. Right now, my full focus is on the season in front of me with the Dogs, but when the time comes, I’ll be ready to embrace the Red V again.”
Dragons coach Nathan Cross shared Teakaraanga-Katoa’s excitement for the coming years.
“Teka will add so much to our club, and we can’t wait to welcome her back,” Cross said.
“She has grown into an incredible player over the past few seasons. Her power, leg-speed, and work ethic will help strengthen our forward pack immensely. I’ll be looking to her to lead and nurture the young talent we have coming through our system. Teka will play a big role in what we are building moving forward.”
A native of Wainuiomata – a suburb of Lower Hutt on New Zealand’s North Island – Tauaneai made her NRLW debut for the Dragons in Round 1, 2023 and spent two seasons with St George Illawarra.
After making her international debut for New Zealand in their 2024 Pacific Championships campaign and has played in six Tests over the past two years.
“We’re ecstatic to be bringing Lex back to the club,” Dragons coach Nathan Cross said.
“She has developed into one of the best forwards in the competition and has so much footy still in front of her. She adds a different dynamic to our team with her athleticism, work-rate, and leadership qualities.
“She fits the mould of what we are looking in for a player. She’s as good a person off the field as she is a player on it and we’re so excited to be welcoming her back to the Dragons.”
Trinity Tauaneai last year took home St George Illawarra’s NRLW Emerging Talent Award, while Paige again finds herself on a development deal for the 2026 season….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Wallaroos delighted to lock in Canberra happy hunting ground after Fijiana win
CANBERRA, 01 APRIL 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—The Wallaroos are gunning for more success in Canberra after locking in October’s Test against Scotland at GIO Stadium.
The match on October 23 will be the final match of their WXV Global Series, set to open the two-Test series against Scotland six days earlier.
It’s the third game in Canberra in the space of 18 months, with the Australians nabbing wins over Fijiana and the USA.
For Faitala Moleka, the more the merrier in her adopted home after making her name with the ACT Brumbies in Super Rugby W.
“I think the AIS has seen us a bit too much throughout this early in the year but it’s good for us Canberra girls being 10-20 minutes away from home,” Moleka said.
“Having our camps here, it’s allowed us as a whole group to come and gel together and kind of connect on and off the field before we go into our PAC Four series that’s coming up.”
Injured back-rower Tabua Tuinakauvadra watched from the sidelines as Australia took the 32-15 win over their Fijian counterparts.
She believes Scotland will prove a perfect test for the building side, sitting one ranking ahead of the Wallaroos in sixth.
The two teams last faced off during the WXV 2 campaign in South Africa, with Australia victorious 31-22 to secure the title.
“I don’t think we’ve played them much and they’re definitely a side that’s developing and improving as the program gets the funding and the girls are committing more,” the number eight said.
“They had a great run in the World Cup and you can see that their form and their development as players are definitely something to be competitive with.”
Tuinakauvadra will miss the trip to the USA to face the hosts and Canada, set to be back for Super Rugby W after getting off the crutches last week.
“I think having the patches of games where we can sort of helps me re-jig some of the goals I had coming into the year. but it’s definitely more exciting that there’s a big bulk of it at the end of the year,” she added…. PACNEWS
NZ – IRONMAN: PMN PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
No coach, no bike, no excuses: Aria Ite proves Pasifika power rising
AUCKLAND, 01 APRIL 2026 (PMN)—Aria Ite didn’t let limited resources stop her from completing one of the world’s toughest endurance events.
Earlier this month in Taupō, Ite swam 3.8km cycled 180km, and ran 42.2km, to become an Ironman.
Speaking to Niu FM’s The Rush, Ite said her journey into endurance sport started from a place of feeling unfulfilled.
“I felt dissatisfied with my life outside of work… I’d finish work, come home, put on the TV, and just felt like I was missing that challenge.”
That search for something more led her to run in 2023, despite having no sporting background.
“I didn’t play any sports, didn’t do any exercise… I didn’t know I couldn’t run three kilometres.”
Aria Ite after completing the Taupō Ironman. Photo/Instagram
But what started as a small step quickly became something bigger. “It was more so a gradual unfolding in my running journey.”
From there, Ite worked her way up, from 5km and 10km runs to completing her first full marathon in Auckland in 2024, before setting her sights on Ironman.
“When I first saw those distances, it scared the heck out of me. But I applied the same mindset I had when I was training for my half-marathon.”
Her determination was tested early. Limited resources meant Ite has to figure things out on her own.
“I didn’t own a bike,” Ite said, sharing she purchased a second-hand one off Trade Me, while relying on online training plans, understanding she couldn’t afford a coach.
“But you push yourself to get going… you train yourself and you train your brain to be resilient, and it shows out on race day.”
After months of self-led preparation, Ite crossed the finish line – a moment she says still doesn’t feel real.
“I can’t believe it… I’ve actually achieved something I never thought was possible,” she said.
“You can’t fathom it… all that hard work over the past several months. That’s it, the moment is finally here.”
Alongside her training, Ite has documented her journey on TikTok, building a growing following and connecting with other Pasifika wanting to try endurance sports.
“Particularly in the triathlon space, I didn’t see anyone Pasifika doing that. Then it all started getting traction… and I got really lovely messages from fellow Pasifika females who want to get into triathlon.”
Ite said the response has been humbling. “It warms my heart, seeing how impactful sharing my Ironman journey has been.”
She also hopes her achievement challenges perceptions about Pacific athletes, saying endurance sport is a space Pasifika belong to too.
“We’re so capable… we’re capable of anything we put our minds to.”
While she’s already completed one of the toughest endurance events in the world, Ite isn’t done yet. She plans to return to running and improve her marathon times, inspiring others along the way…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: AAP PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
‘Good luck to him’: Reds roll out Lomax welcome mat
BRISBANE, 01 MARCH 2026 (AAP)—Zac Lomax has been reminded that he knows exactly what to expect if the code-hopper makes his Super Rugby Pacific debut in Brisbane.
The former representative NRL winger looms as a likely starter for the Western Force against Queensland at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday.
The 26-year-old lit up the NRL stage during stints with St George Illawarra and Parramatta, but his bid to join the Melbourne Storm this season – after the breakaway R360 league was postponed until 2028 – ended in an out-of-court settlement ahead of a potential NSW Supreme Court hearing.
Coach Simon Cron had indicated his first minutes would likely come against the Reds (4-2) on Saturday or the following week in Fiji against the Drua.
Reds and Wallabies hooker Matt Faessler, himself hoping to return from a knee injury for the clash, said Lomax should know what to expect.
“There’s been talk about that and he’s obviously a great talent in rugby league. It will be interesting to see how he goes if he plays,” he said of the NSW State of Origin regular.
“As a Queenslander it hurts, but he was part of that (Blues) team that won the decider a couple of years ago in Brisbane, so I’m sure he’s no stranger to a hostile Suncorp crowd and good luck to him if he plays.”
Lomax has been training with the Force for the past two weeks after signing with the Perth-based club and Australian Rugby on a two-year deal ahead of the 2026 home World Cup.
He joined teammates for the warm-up before sitting in the coach’s box for Saturday night’s 24-14 loss to the Chiefs in Perth.
The 26-year-old hasn’t played rugby union since his primary school days but shapes as a timely injection for the 1-5 side that has endured four losses of 10 points or less.
“He’s spent a lot of time with (Test flanker) Carlo Tizzano working on the breakdown, which certainly is not fun,” fullback Max Burey said ahead of Wednesday’s team selection.
“He’s ripped into that and is just being himself.”
Burey played with and against Lomax in NSW country rugby league when they were kids.
“He’ll add a lot,” he said.
“Throw a guy in with international experience … albeit in another code, but a big game player and (Test winger Dylan) Pietsch coming back as well.
“There’s two outside backs adding a lot of competition and today was one of the best training sessions we’ve had,” he said…. PACNEWS
NZ – NETBALL: PMN PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr Mar 2026
New Zealand netball pulls plug on bid for Super expansion
AUCKLAND, 01 APRIL 2026 (PMN)—Several New Zealand netball franchises explored joining Australia’s expanding Super Netball competition, but have ruled it out as financially unviable.
Australia’s governing body confirmed last year it was considering adding two new teams to the Suncorp Super Netball (SSN) from 2027, and was open to expressions of interest from New Zealand.
While neither Netball New Zealand nor Netball Australia would confirm whether a formal bid was submitted before last month’s deadline, RNZ understands investigations were carried out by both the national body and local franchises.
Magic team relationship manager Gary Dawson said the opportunity generated interest, but the costs involved made it unrealistic. “I know that some zones had a look at it and thought ‘no we can’t it’s not viable for us’.”
Netball Australia invited expressions of interest from parties interested in acquiring a new licence, including private-ownership groups, existing SSN licence-holders, and entities affiliated with other codes.
“That’s been something that I know that not only has Netball NZ looked at but I think there have been interested parties in New Zealand outside of Netball NZ who have looked at that and I’m not sure where that stands.
“My understanding is that yes Netball NZ has certainly looked at it but my understanding is it’s not necessarily part of their plans at the moment.”
Dawson said some of the zones, who generally own and operate their ANZ Premiership teams, quickly realised it wasn’t feasible.
“Just about all of us sort of had a look at it but when you do the numbers you have to be pretty ambitious if you’re a zone to even look at it I would have thought. My understanding is none of them have put a bid in, some may have, I’m not sure.
“For Magic it was just out of the question anyway because we’ve got to get our own house in order before we even think about Australia. Our focus really at the moment has been on getting this year up and running and making it a great competition but also working with Netball NZ to make sure we’ve got plans in place for next year and beyond.”
Dawson, a former Waikato Rugby and Chiefs chief executive, said just pursuing an SSN licence would take a lot of time and resources.
“Then you would have to pay a licence fee to join, you’ve got a whole bunch of costs like who pays for trans-Tasman travel, player remuneration is another kettle of fish, you would have to meet whatever their salary cap requirements are and all that sort of stuff so it’s a whole new ball game when you look at that competition so you would have to have pretty strong financial backing from sponsors or private equity to be able to put in a bid I would imagine.
“It’s really up to Netball NZ to decide when they look at the different financial models and so on what they can afford or not.
“Personally, I don’t think it’s a big deal, I think all the focus is really going on the ANZ Premiership and making sure that it’s a great competition this year and we come out of it strong with a good product that we can go into following years with.”
Dawson said it was still possible that a private consortium in New Zealand could have put together some sort of bid.
“There could be private interests who said ‘let’s create a team to enter in the Australian league’, a bit like the Warriors or Auckland FC – that’s certainly a possibility, other organisations have done that, but I don’t know.”
NNZ exploring 2027 options
The six franchises are about to enter another ANZ Premiership season under a cloud of uncertainty as to where its future lies, with no broadcast deal in place yet from 2027.
Dawson said Netball NZ had been working with the franchises and other key stakeholders over the future of the domestic competition, which starts on 11 April.
“To figure out what 2027 and even 2028 could possibly look like. They’ve come to us with a timeline and the different pieces of work that need to be done to come to decisions about next year and the year after.
“I would hope that by the end of April, early May at the very latest, that we have an indication from Netball NZ as to what 2027 will look like. Just from a practical point of view, we have to book venues, we have to start talking to potential sponsors and all those sorts of things.”
The look and feel of the ANZ Premiership has not materially changed since its inaugural season in 2017 and Dawson said the national body was exploring all sorts of options.
“I’m not across all of them but looking at a number of options as to how we could have different leagues or a league running next year and until all that work’s done and they’ve made their decision, it’s just speculation at the moment but I do know they are looking at a variety of options for what will I think ultimately be the best outcome given the circumstances.”
Dawson said everyone had to be adaptable when there was less money in the system.
“The players have taken a 20 percent pay cut this year but the quid pro quo there is that they are also not expected to train as much as they have in the past so while they’re earning less they are doing less work technically.”
He said they have had to tighten their spending across the board.
“That’s been a fact of life for just about all franchises for the last four or five years that we run on a pretty tight budget, the revenue from sponsorship gets harder and harder and obviously through Netball NZ with the broadcast rights, that revenue has reduced so it is a difficult environment financially,” Dawson said….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Wed 01 Apr 2026
Isaako eyes strong finish in final Dolphins season
BRISBANE, 01 APRIL 2026 (NRL)—-Dolphins star outside back Jamayne Isaako is determined to go out with a bang this season, and trusts the club is in a great position to succeed following his departure.
Isaako’s legacy at the club traces all the way back to the Dolphins’ infant era, having been part of the inaugural NRL squad and their first-ever victory against the Roosters back in Round 1 of 2023.
With his departure from the club at the end of this season confirmed, Isaako is now clear-minded and primed to help lead the charge for the club’s first ever finals appearance.
“I never really pictured myself leaving the Dolphins, and I’m sad to be leaving the club, having been an inaugural player here since day one.
“I have still got a whole season ahead of me here at the Dolphins, and I want to leave the club in a better position than we finished last year.
“I will continue putting my best foot forward in hopes that we can play finals football this year,” Isaako said.
Isaako has always been a permanent presence in the Dolphins’ backline, and will most likely finish his Dolphins’ career as the club’s current record appearance holder and highest point scorer, an achievement the flyer is hugely proud of.
“I have played every game, and I don’t plan on missing one until my time is finished here at the Dolphins.
“If there is anything that I’ve done for this club, it is score tries and kick goals, and I’ve done that to the best of my ability.”
Despite being a constant figure in the backline, Isaako believes the club has the talent from within to be able to assume his position.
With already established star Jack Bostock eager to return from injury, and young prodigies such as Tevita Naufahu and LJ Nonu readily waiting in the wings, the club is in good stead to handle the star winger’s departure.
“There’s a great crop of young players coming through the club at the moment, and I have no doubt that I’ve done a good enough job to play out this year and then leave that spot to the young boys coming through.”
Jamayne will now prepare for his 77th straight appearance for the Dolphins in this Thursday night’s clash with the Sea Eagles in front of a packed Kayo Stadium crowd…..PACNEWS