In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY LEAGUE — Jacob gets Fiji Bati party started after waiting nine years for an invite
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — The fire in Benaiah burns bright with blood brothers by his side
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — Pacific rising as Tonga beat England, Samoa crush France at World Cup
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — The 110kg reason Leniu made Parramatta switch
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG Orchids open World Cup campaign in style
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Nambawan Super joins PNG Chiefs as superannuation partner
7. RUGBY — Flair and structure says Flying Fijians coach
8. NETBALL — Fiji A prioritises development ahead of Brisbane series
9. BEACH VOLLEYBALL — Cook Islands women claim bronze at Oceania Beach Volleyball Champ
10. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Not a competition’ as Tedesco takes reins from Reece
11. RUGBY — Suaalii, Ioane among famous names as next generation of stars named in Australia U16
12. RUGBY — Emily Chancellor announces retirement from international rugby
13. RUGBY — HSBC SVNS 2 dates and destinations confirmed for 2027
14. GOLF — Dates confirmed for 2027 women’s Australian Open
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Jacob gets Fiji Bati party started after waiting nine years for an invite
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (NRL)—Fiji front-rower Jacob Saifiti is familiar with this role.
The veteran pack leader showing the way for his young forwards.
Inspiring by actions, setting a platform, leading by example.
It was what he had been doing for Newcastle during their NRL redemption season.
But he was sidelined for long stretches of the second half of that campaign, initially with a torn hamstring, then he missed their fairytale finals run to serve a four-game suspension.
As it turned out, Newcastle’s never-say-die charge from seventh spot all the way to the NRL grand final, only to fall one agonising point short against the Roosters, meant Saifiti was available for the start of Fiji’s IRL Rugby League World Cup campaign.
In his eighth Test for Fiji, and first in nine years, the 30-year-old prop scored his first try in Bati colours in the 40-12 win over Cook Islands in the familiar surrounds of his McDonald Jones Stadium home ground.
Saifiti contested the first kick of his career, caught a Brandon Wakeham bomb, and stretched out to score under the posts.
“That was the first and last time I’ll ever go up like that. The boys were saying, ‘I didn’t know you had that in you’, and I said, ‘mate, I didn’t even know, swear to God’,” Saifiti said.
“Not in my whole entire life have I ever done that. Maybe off a grubber but gone up and actually contested a kick like that, I’ve never done. We do practise that at the Knights – well, this year we did – so maybe I’ve got to give some credit to them.”
Before Sunday’s game in Newcastle, Saifiti’s last appearance for Fiji was in their 54-6 loss to Australia in the 2017 World Cup semi-final at Suncorp Stadium.
“It was good to be back in this jersey – it’s been about nine years – so it’s been a really good week,” said Saifiti, who ran for 123 metres in 54 minutes against Cook Islands.
“I’ve really enjoyed it, and to play at home too, my home ground, it was a decent turnout and a good win, so I’m stoked.”
Saifiti will return to Suncorp Stadium next Sunday to lead the Fiji forwards against an Australian team likely to include Knights teammate Bradman Best on Test debut.
“I think he should have been there for them in game one, being biased, but I read today that he’s going to get his shot and I’m glad for him,” Saifiti said.
“I think he’s had one or two tours before this and hasn’t debuted yet, so he deserves it.
“He’s a big-game player and we’ve seen what he can do in the Origin arena – game three, he’s a specialist – and throughout the finals series, he was unreal too…
“I hope he plays but I just hope he doesn’t come into the middle, because the big blokes are going to have to show him a little thing or two.”
Looking forward to testing himself against the reigning champions, Saifiti said the World Cup campaign with Fiji had put a post-season silver lining to a year that ended under a dark cloud after looking so bright early on.
Having fought back from a torn hamstring that sidelined him for six matches, Saifiti’s NRL season finished prematurely when he was sent off and suspended for four games for a reckless high tackle on Warriors winger Luke Laulilii.
“It was a weird month. It’s been a weird year for me, to be honest,” Saifiti said.
“I was probably in career-best form at the start of the year, get picked for Origin, don’t play; make a grand final, don’t play; so it’s been a whirlwind of a year.
“Obviously the grand final, I would have loved to have been out there, but that’s just me being a competitor.
“I’ve been through all the tough years here so to not play in that grand final, I’m just disappointed in myself. If I was injured, fair enough, but I was fit and it was my own doing.
“That’s the thing that frustrated me the most, it was all on myself, but I still had a job to do.
“We had a young forward pack and I had to help get them ready to play every finals game and the grand final. So it’s been a weird but enjoyable year, because I’m 30, I found career-best form, and I still think I’ve got a lot of good footy left in me.”
Saifiti said watching Newcastle’s finals run from the sidelines, alongside fellow starters Dylan Brown (ACL), Trey Mooney (scapula) and Phoenix Crossland (suspended) will provide additional motivation for the 2027 NRL season.
“Don’t get me wrong, I’m focused on Fiji, but in the back of my head, I’m thinking about next year already,” he said.
Fiji coach Mick Potter was pleasantly surprised Saifiti served his suspension before the RLWC. Potter previously coached Saifiti for Fiji in 2017, and also at the Knights from 2016 to 2018 while working as an assistant to former coach Nathan Brown.
“It was unexpected but he’s a great acquisition, if you like, to our team,” Potter said.
“Having him back from being away for a long time, it’s fantastic for Fiji rugby league.”
Saifiti said Fiji’s first-up win against Cook Islands helped establish confidence before the Bati tackle Australia on Sunday and New Zealand on the Gold Coast on October 31.
“I’ve seen first-hand what belief can do to a side,” Saifiti said, reflecting on Newcastle’s finals victories over the Rabbitohs, Warriors and Panthers.
“Every semi-final, the grand final, everyone wrote us off but we kept turning up…
“Don’t get me wrong, I know we’re up against it, but in 2017 we beat New Zealand, so I’ve seen more unliklely things happen.
“I love testing myself against the best, and I think it brings the best out in me.
“It’s a beautiful challenge, these next two weeks, but it’s something I’m looking forward to. I’ve missed a fair chunk of footy this year through suspension and injury, we’ve got a pretty inexperienced team here, especially in the pack… so the boys are going to follow me.
“I’ll be out there throwing that first punch and I know the boys will follow me.” ….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
The fire in Benaiah burns bright with blood brothers by his side
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (NRL)—If you expected rising hooker Benaiah Ioelu to be kicking stones after sitting on the bench for the entire NRL grand final and not getting a run, you’d better think again.
After playing five NRL games across 2026, Ioelu was overlooked for the Roosters’ finals against the Panthers, Sharks and Dolphins before getting a call-up to the six-man interchange for the decider after Connor Watson was ruled out.
As the clash with the Knights ebbed and flowed and went down to the wire, Hugo Savala, Cody Ramsey and Ioelu went unused by coach Trent Robinson, but the celebrations were no less meaningful for the 22-year-old.
“It wasn’t really a disappointment because my season was unbelievable,” he said.
“You look at our Roosters side and I was so lucky to learn off Robbo (hooker Reece Robson), Teddy, Sam Walker, Chez, I mean our spine was crazy.
“There’s so much that goes into making a premiership and you enjoy the time with those boys.
“I needed a day or two to switch over and then I was back into Test match footy.
“Obviously playing for your culture is a different type of level to NRL because you get to play with the same blood next to you… that’s a big difference.
“Coming into camp is just like coming back home for me.
“Every NRL club has their values but the Samoan family is equally as important as it reminds me what it’s like to be Samoan.”
After working alongside a host of Roosters spine stars in 2026, Ioelu is now the starting No.9 for Samoa, teaming with fullback Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and halves Chanel Harris-Tevita and Jarome Luai to take down France 78-4 in game one.
“My mindset is I want to learn as much as I can, like I did at club level this year,” he said.
“Experience training with the best, bringing some of my own knowledge and then backing myself.
“Being a starter for Samoa… and we only have three games last year, so there is a lot to learn still.”
PNG Kumuls are now waiting in Port Moresby for Saturday’s match at Santos National Football Stadium.
“I’ve never been to Papau New Guinea but I’ve been told what to expect,” Ioelu said.
“I’ve been pretty lucky to play in a few Roosters milestone games, sold-out games, like against the Rabbitohs so I’ve experienced what it’s like to play in front of a big crowd, and when I can’t hear my teammates.” …PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: REUTERS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Pacific rising as Tonga beat England, Samoa crush France at World Cup
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (REUTERS)—Reigning champions Australia just about got away with a win in the first round of the Rugby League World Cup as any doubts that the Pacific island nations are a force to be seriously reckoned with were washed away on the opening weekend.
Samoa and Tonga are still technically classified as Tier Two nations but the former humbled France 78-4 in Sydney on Friday and the latter beat England 30-12 in a high-quality test in Perth on Saturday.
It was Tonga’s first ever win over England in seven attempts but no huge surprise given their squad is packed with top National Rugby League (NRL) talents like Haumole Olakau’atu, who scored two tries, and highly rated halfback Isaiya Katoa.
“We’re still quite new in terms of beating Tier One nations, and England are that,” said Tonga coach Kristian Woolf, who coaches Katoa in his day job at the Redcliffe Dolphins.
“They’re a very strong team, and we knew they were going to come out and challenge us in different ways, and they did that. And I just thought our performance was really strong.”
Samoa, who reached the final at the last World Cup and also have a squad made up almost entirely of NRL players, ran in 14 tries as they crushed a French team whose best players turn out in Europe’s Super League.
“The NRL keeps growing and keeps getting better every year,” mourned France coach Laurent Frayssinous.
“The smartness, the skill the guys have under pressure, the touches, week in, week out, that’s something we need to improve in Super League, simple as that.”
England, who won three of the first six World Cups as Great Britain, now need to win their last two group matches and hope other results go their way to avoid missing out on the semi-finals for the first time.
“It’s great that Tonga is a really strong nation. It’s brilliant that Samoa’s a really strong nation,” said England coach Brian McDermott.
“It’s great for the international game, but we’re not going to open the can of worms about England’s position on the international scene.
“All we can do right here, right now, is just go out and put a ton of effort.”
In the other matches over the weekend, Fiji battered the Cook Islands 40-12 in Newcastle, while Papua New Guinea made light work of Lebanon with a 42-18 win in Port Moresby.
Australia and New Zealand kicked off the tournament on Thursday night in Sydney with a blockbuster clash that the home side were a little fortunate to edge 24-22. The visiting pack kept the Kiwis on top for much of the contest but two intercept tries, a couple of kicks to winger Jack Bostock and a brilliant individual score from fullback Reece Walsh got the Kangaroos home.
Both teams are still likely to progress to the semi-finals but New Zealand are likely to be without fullback Kalyn Ponga, who broke his forearm between scoring his two tries….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
The 110kg reason Leniu made Parramatta switch
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (AAP)—Spencer Leniu says the chance to model his game off evergreen front-rower Junior Paulo – and not the opportunity to become a starting NRL prop – was the main motivation behind his decision to sign with Parramatta.
Leniu ended months of speculation last week when he was given an early release from the Sydney Roosters to join the Eels from 2027 onwards.
The 26-year-old four-time premiership winner has inked a four-year deal with the Eels where he is set to reunite with former Penrith teammate Jarome Luai, who has signed a one-season contract before heading to the PNG Chiefs in 2028.
Leniu consistently denied speculation linking him with the Eels earlier this year and said he didn’t even inform Luai of his next move until he had signed a deal following the Roosters’ grand final victory.
“I didn’t want it to get out that we were talking to Parra and I thought I’d try to keep it in house with just my family,” Leniu told AAP.
“Obviously there was interest when Romey signed there but Junior was a big reason I came over.
“I’ve played with the big boy with Samoa and admired his game from afar for many years and how he goes about his business.
“This game, they try to run front-rowers out of the game but he has changed his whole body to adapt and I’ve asked him for his gym programme because he’s similar (shape) to me.”
Paulo has consistently been one of the NRL’s most durable and skilful props, often putting up big minutes in spite of his sizeable 110kg frame.
Leniu joined the Roosters with the aim of becoming a regular starter in the NRL but over time has found he is more damaging as an impact player from the bench.
“When I dreamed about playing in the NRL I never dreamed about whether I stated or came off the bench,” Leniu said.
“Whether I’m playing is the ultimate goal and I get to live my dream every day, not many people get to say that. Bench or starting, I’m easy.”
Leniu, Paulo and Luai were all part of the Samoan side that hammered France 78-4 to open their World Cup campaign in Sydney last week.
Samoa face one of the most challenging away trips in international rugby league this week when they take on the Kumuls in Port Moresby on Saturday.
It will be Luai and Samoa winger Brian To’o’s first visits to PNG since they signed with the Chiefs.
“I have never played there but I know it’s going to be 30 degrees and 99 per cent humidity,” Leniu said.
“It’s just another challenge we’re going to have to face. To his credit, he (Luai) has paid for everything each time we’ve gone out for dinner so I guess that tax-free money is good,” he said…. PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
PNG Orchids open World Cup campaign in style
PORT MORESBY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The Papua New Guinea Orchids opened their Women’s Rugby League World Cup campaign in style, crushing France 58-4 under scorching heat at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby on Saturday.
The star of the show, debutant winger Naomi Kelly, contributed four tries in her first World Cup match.
Kelly, the Gas Resources Central Dabaris flyer who was “top try scorer” in the Santos Cup competition this year, couldn’t have asked for a better start in the red, black and gold. She ran the flanks in style and smiled her way through most of her tries, habits she had picked up during her rugby union days.
The Orchids, coached by Craig Sandercock, were dominant from the first whistle, leading 32-0 at halftime before running away in the second half to seal the deal for PNG and set the tempo for their next match against Fiji this Saturday.
Sandercock praised Kelly’s efforts, saying not only is she a valuable player for the Orchids but possibly for the NRLW someday.
Special mention also went out to 19-year-old Tia Molo, who started with the Junior Orchids last year and has now graduated into the senior ranks. She also took out the player-of-the-match honours on Saturday, and walked away with K1,000 from Bank South Pacific.
“I was really pleased with the players. They’ve trained so hard since we went into camp … they wanted to get better, they wanted to learn … and it’s pleasing to see that,” Sandercock said.
“The halves controlled the game pretty well (against France), and it also helps having some really good forwards to lay the platform and let our backs finished off the set plays well. Everyone played well.
“I’ll look at the tape and see where we can get better,” the coach added.
Orchids captain Elsie Albert was also full of praise for her charges, especially winning a world match in front of the home crowd.
She attributed the win to good preparation leading up to Saturday’s game, saying everyone went out there and did exactly what was needed to be done…..PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Nambawan Super joins PNG Chiefs as superannuation partner
PORT MORESBY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —The PNG Chiefs have announced Nambawan Super Limited as the club’s official superannuation partner in a landmark three-year partnership that will connect Papua New Guinea’s largest, longest serving and most trusted superfund with the club ahead of its entry into the NRL competition in 2028.
The partnership will see the Nambawan Super logo feature on the lower back of the PNG Chiefs playing jersey to be revealed in Port Moresby on 21 October.
Nambawan Super will also receive category exclusivity and a strong presence across the club’s broadcast, merchandise and digital platforms as part of the multi-year deal.
The partnership will help to create opportunities to promote financial literacy and the importance of long-term savings to people across Papua New Guinea – exploring ways to use the reach of the PNG Chiefs and player ambassadors to support Nambawan Super’s financial literacy work in workplaces, schools and regional communities.
The partnership also reflects the fund’s ambition to grow superannuation access among Papua New Guinea’s private and informal sectors, where coverage remains limited.
Nambawan Super manages the retirement savings of more than 245,000 members, with approximately K14 billion (US$3.10 billion) in funds under management.
PNG Chiefs CEO Lorna McPherson said the partnership reflected a powerful way to bring shared ambitions together in creating opportunities for people across the country.
“Nambawan Super is an organisation that belongs to Papua New Guineans, and the PNG Chiefs are being built to represent all Papua New Guineans,” she said.
“Together, we can use the reach and passion of rugby league to make conversations about saving, financial literacy and retirement planning more visible and accessible.
“We want young people, workers and families across the country to see that planning for the future matters, and this partnership will help to deliver that.
“We’re excited to work together to connect with communities across the country and help make this club a genuine source of pride for the nation.”
Nambawan Super Board chairman Richard Sinamoi said the partnership would connect members with a defining national moment.
“This partnership allows our members to be a part of Papua New Guinea’s pride and joy as our team steps onto the global NRL stage; beloved by our members and Papua New Guineans right across the country, fostering immense national unity and ensuring member-owned domestic capital drives our country’s historic sporting future.”
Nambawan Super chief executive officer Lachlan Baird said: “This collaboration is a cornerstone of our strategic vision to actively grow and diversify our membership base. Historically, Nambawan Super has been perceived by many as exclusively a fund for public sector employees, but this high-impact national platform enables us to boldly clarify our brand position to show that we are open, forward- thinking, and built for all working Papua New Guineans.
“Only a small fraction of our nation’s population – around 10 per cent – currently benefits from superannuation. We aim to use this prominent platform to spark a national shift toward total financial coverage in retirement. Financial dignity after working life is a right every Papua New Guinea should enjoy, and this partnership strengthens Nambawan Super’s commitment to achieving this for our nation,” Baird said…PACNEWS
FIJI – NETBALL: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Fiji A prioritises development ahead of Brisbane series
SUVA, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (FIJI SUN)—Development will be the priority for the Crest Fiji A team as it prepares for the Netball Challenge Series in Brisbane, Australia, from 23 – 28 November.
Head coach Michelle Parsons has selected a 15-member squad, made up mostly of locally based players yet to represent the national team, in line with the tournament’s eligibility rules.
“The idea behind this team is to have a really holistic approach to our development over the next three years,” Parsons said.
“These players have been identified as part of the future of the high-performance programme.”
Fiji A will face Samoa, Tonga, the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea, giving the players valuable experience against regional rivals.
Parsons said the tournament would introduce the players to the demands of high-performance netball, with an emphasis on composure, physicality and decision-making under pressure.
The squad will also work towards performance targets in areas such as centre-pass conversion, defensive turnovers and goal efficiency.
With about 12 training sessions available before the tournament, Parsons said improving execution and communication would be key, particularly as the players adjust to playing together.
“They’ve never played together, so they have to learn more about each other during preparation,” she said.
Reflecting on last Saturday’s training session, Parsons praised the players’ energy and commitment but identified pass placement as an area requiring improvement.
“The energy and their intent were excellent, so now it’s just working on the quality of execution,” she said.
The team will depart for Brisbane on 20 November…PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Flair and structure says Flying Fijians coach
TOKYO, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—The Fiji Water Flying Fijians have a few more days to acclimatise to Japan’s conditions and fine-tune their preparations ahead of next Saturday’s Centennial Test against the hosts.
The side departed for Japan on Friday night, with head coach Jake White confident the team knows what to expect as they prepare for a tough encounter against the Japanese.
The focus will be on maintaining Fiji’s natural attacking style while improving structure and discipline to ensure the team can perform at its best.
Coach White has also encouraged the players to express themselves on the field while remaining committed to the team’s game plan.
The clash against Japan will be an important test for the Flying Fijians as they continue to build momentum in their international campaign.
Following the Japan Test, the team will travel to Europe for further international fixtures as part of their end-of-year tour.
“We want them to play their natural style, but we will add structure to that, so they can feel comfortable playing their own style of rugby. This is something we want to instill properly in the team before this game.”
The Flying Fijians will take on Japan this Saturday at 5.55pm. …PACNEWS
COOKS – BEACH VOLLEYBALL: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Cook Islands women claim bronze at Oceania Beach Volleyball Champ
RAROTONGA, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (COOK ISLAND NEWS)—Cook Islands open women’s pair, Twina Tangirere and Tuanna Mitchell, secured third place at the Oceania Zonal Beach Volleyball Championship after beating Australia’s second pair in the bronze-medal playoff.
The pair bounced back from a tough opening playoff match against Australia’s top side at the Nikao Beach Courts, capping off a tournament in which their confidence and performance steadily grew.
“We did it,” Tangirere shared. “We said we were going to push extra hard and we did it!” Mitchell added after their third-place victory.
The win was especially rewarding for the players, who said they had worked on the areas they needed to improve before their final match.
“I think we’re proud of ourselves because we’ve improved since day one, and we’ve actually learned a lot,” Mitchell said.
Earlier in the day, the Cook Islands pair had faced Australia’s top side in a closely contested match. Although they fell short of victory, they were pleased with their performance against one of the tournament’s strongest teams.
“We played our hardest and I think we performed very well with tight points, close to a win,” Tangirere said.
Mitchell added, “Knowing we’re going against the top side, we still pushed through despite knowing how well they are.”
“But we did give them a fight. They really had to push for their win as well.”
The pair said they were proud to have come close to beating Australia’s top team and were determined to take third place in their next match.
Before their final match the pair were confident in themselves and were determined to win.
Their determination paid off, with the pair defeating Australia’s second team to finish third in the open women’s category.
Cook Islands beach volleyball coordinator Tiare Karaponga praised the players for their effort, saying they had entered the bronze-medal match determined to win.
“Super proud of our women. They came out hungry to win the bronze,” Karaponga said.
She said the result was particularly pleasing given the pair’s transition from indoor volleyball to beach volleyball.
While Tangirere had represented the Cook Islands in beach volleyball previously, the tournament marked Mitchell’s first time competing in the discipline.
Karaponga said she was happy with the result and expected more opportunities for the pair in the future.
The players also reflected on how their losses throughout the tournament had helped them identify areas to work on, saying they were excited for what comes next.
New Zealand won the open women’s title beating Australia while Samoa claimed the open men’s title beating Australia. Australia finished third in the men’s competition….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
‘Not a competition’ as Tedesco takes reins from Reece
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—James Tedesco won’t be sidetracked by thoughts of upstaging Reece Walsh in the battle for Australia’s No.1 jersey when he plays his first Test in three years.
The Sydney Roosters premiership skipper, overlooked for Walsh in the Kangaroos’ World Cup-opening win over New Zealand, will be back in the fray when the hosts face Fiji in Brisbane on Sunday.
Since his last Test appearance in 2023, Tedesco has won back his NSW jersey, claimed last year’s Dally M and was the Clive Churchill Medallist as Roosters captain earlier this month.
But Brisbane opposite Walsh staked his claim in a barnstorming return from injury, scoring a long-range solo try and saving another with a huge tackle on Kalyn Ponga in Australia’s two-point win.
It leaves coach Kevin Walters with a major selection call to make at the pointy end of the tournament.
“Those big moments; he hadn’t played in six, seven weeks but he turned up in big moments and nailed them,” Tedesco, the oldest member of the squad at 33, said of Walsh.
“He was great all week, asking for advice.
“But it’s not a competition. I’ve got an opportunity and all I can do is make the most of it and do my role.
“Walshy does things on the field so it’s about knowing my game and being an experienced leader.
“Walshy, he was soaking up anything I had to say last week and I enjoy that role.”
Tedesco will return to a side also set to feature a new-look halves combination of Sam Walker and Tom Dearden, with Cam Munster set to be rested and Mitchell Moses (calf) ruled out of the tournament through injury.
Moses’s scratching may play into Walsh’s hands, with the Broncos fullback – like the Parramatta playmaker – boasting a long kicking game that Tedesco doesn’t offer.
Tedesco won’t enter Sunday’s Suncorp Stadium clash anxious to prove himself, though.
“I’m not seeing it like that, it’s just my opportunity and I don’t know whether it’s going to be the last,” Tedesco said after Australia trained indoors on a wet Brisbane Monday.
“To get another shot in the Australian jersey, I wasn’t sure I was going to get another one … all my focus and energy is into this game.”
Tedesco said Roosters teammate Walker would bring his eyes-up style to the Test arena, but couple it with lessons learnt from Daly Cherry-Evans.
“He’s been so, so good for us this year,” Tedesco said of halfback Walker.
‘It’s high-instinct footy, he takes opportunities where he sees it, but he’s worked hard on the effort areas and learning under Chez.”
Fiji opened their campaign with a 40-12 defeat of the Cook Islands on Sunday and produced a massive scare in a tight six-point loss to New Zealand at the quarter final stage of the last Cup…..PACNES
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Suaalii, Ioane among famous names as next generation of stars named in Australia U16
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—-Australia U16 Head Coach Tim Rapp has named a 25-player squad to participate in a December training camp with the week culminating in a match against a NSW Waratahs U17 side on Thursday 10 December (venue TBC).
The younger brother of Wallabies star Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii, prop Christopher Suaalii, makes the squad after captaining the Waratahs to a successful U16 campaign.
He is joined by Digby Ioane, the nephew of the former Wallaby by the same name.
All five Super Rugby U16 clubs have a representative in the squad, with champions NSW Waratahs having the most with 11 selections.
The squad will assemble at St Gregory’s College in Campbelltown from Saturday 5 December.
Rapp will be joined by assistant coaches Jono Lance, Jay Tregonning and S&C coach Mark Chisholm.
Australia U16 Head Coach Tim Rapp said:”This year’s Super Rugby Men’s U16 competition continued to deliver on our impressive development pathways across the country.
“This competition has again delivered a high level of performance from plenty of individuals and the squad selected to represent Australia will showcase some exciting talent.
“Those selected will have the chance to accelerate their development in a national environment while having an opportunity of pulling on the gold jersey.”
National Pathways Manager Nic Henderson said: “There are lots of talented players that unfortunately missed out on selection to the squad on this occasion, but we will continue to monitor their development as they progress into the Australian U18’s space in 2027.”
Australia U16 squad:
Adam Dzaja – ACT Brumbies Marist College N/A
Andrew Larkin – NSW Waratahs St Ignatius Drummoyne/Norths
Antonio Azzi – NSW Waratahs Trinity Grammar Oatley
C’ezar-mayn Leota – Queensland Reds Nudgee College Brothers/Wynnum
Christopher Suaalii – NSW Waratahs The King’s School Dural
Daniel De Swardt – Queensland Reds Ipswich Grammar Ipswich
Deon Haynes – NSW Waratahs Newington College Oatley
Digby Ioane – Queensland Reds Brisbane State Sunnybank
Harry Jones-Hughes – NSW Waratahs St Augustine’s College Narrabeen
Isaac Kasprowicz – NSW Waratahs Shore School Manly
Israel Leuga – Victoria Victoria Secondary College Power House
Kaiden Grace – NSW Waratahs St Augustine’s College Manly
Kellam Joseph – Queensland Reds Nudgee College Brothers/Moree
Kobi Treffery-Koenders – Western Force Darling Range College Kalamunda
Longoatu Jr Vaka – Western Force Aranmore College Palmyra
Lorima Seuseu – NSW Waratahs Barker College Oatley
Lucas Aholahi – NSW Waratahs Holy Cross College N/A
Lukas Pendleton – NSW Waratahs Waverley College Randwick
Marcus Grehan – Queensland Reds Nudgee College Brothers/Bulimba
Riley Carr – NSW Waratahs Waverley College Randwick
Toby Bretherton – Queensland Reds Ipswich Grammar Central Highlands
Tom Gibb – Queensland Reds Nudgee College Brothers
Travarn Ackerman-Fifita – Western Force Darling Range College Kalamunda
Will Jessiman – Queensland Reds The Southport School Bulimba/Mudgee
Zaine Gurney – Queensland Reds Brisbane State Bulimba….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Emily Chancellor announces retirement from international rugby
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Wallaroo No.158 Emily Chancellor has today announced her retirement from international rugby.
Chancellor will finish her Wallaroos career at the completion of the WXV Global Series Test match against Scotland on Friday at GIO Stadium in Canberra.
An avid rugby fan, Chancellor started playing the game at the age of 21 at university and after loving the experience she has played ever since.
The 35-year-old joined the Wallaroos program in 2015 before making her international debut three years later, where she was named 2018 player of the year in her maiden season.
She featured at her first World Cup in 2021 and was part of key victories including WXV triumphs against France and Wales in 2023.
Chancellor overcame adversity in 2024, including a return from an ACL injury that ruled her out for 12 months.
Chancellor became the 19th captain of the Wallaroos against Wales in 2025, playing in all 11 Tests including a second Rugby World Cup.
She continued the captaincy for four matches, including two as a co-captain at the tournament, and was recently capped for a 40th time in her career.
Retiring Wallaroos forward Emily Chancellor said: “The privilege of representing Australia is one that I will hold close to my chest for a lifetime, but after eight years I’ve decided the time is right to close this chapter and hang up my international boots.
“To watch and be part of the growth of the Wallaroos, from my first camp in 2015 through to making my debut in 2018, is something I’ll be forever grateful for.
“My international journey has been filled with amazing friendships, unforgettable experiences, hard work and so many lessons, both on and off the field.
“I’m incredibly grateful to everyone who has been part of that journey and so proud of what we’ve been able to achieve together.
“It’s time for new opportunities and challenges, and I can’t wait to be a massive cheerleader for the Wallaroos as we continue to build, grow and succeed into our 2029 home World Cup and beyond.”
Director of Women’s High Performance, Tim Walsh, congratulated Chancellor on an outstanding international career and her contribution to Australian rugby.
“Emily has been a fantastic player and ambassador for the Wallaroos since coming into the program in 2015.” Walsh said.
“Her dedication and commitment to the game of rugby has left an enduring mark for those to come.
“Wallaroo No.158 and the 19th captain, Emily’s work ethic and passion for the jersey means she has left it in a better place.”
Chancellor remains open to continuing her club career in Swytx Super Rugby Women’s with the NSW Waratahs next season as part of her decision…..PACNEWS
IRELAND – RUGBY: WORLD RUGBY PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
HSBC SVNS 2 dates and destinations confirmed for 2027
DUBLIN, 20 0CTOBER 2026 (WORLD RUGBY)—World Rugby has confirmed the HSBC SVNS 2 schedule, with three events taking place across January and February as the global rugby sevens calendar continues to build towards the LA28 Olympic Games.
HSBC SVNS 2 schedule 2027
23-24 January: Nairobi, Kenya – Talanta Sports Stadium
20-21 February: Montevideo, Uruguay – Estadio Charrua
27-28 February: São Paulo, Brazil – Nicolau Alayon Stadium
The announcement follows confirmation of the HSBC SVNS Series and World Championship schedule for 2026/27.
HSBC SVNS 2 forms an important part of World Rugby’s global sevens pathway, providing teams with the opportunity to progress through the international competition structure and compete for a place among the world’s leading sevens nations.
Introduced as part of the evolved HSBC SVNS model, the three-tier structure provides a clear and competitive pathway for men’s and women’s teams, connecting regional qualification with HSBC SVNS 3, HSBC SVNS 2 and ultimately the HSBC SVNS World Championship.
Nairobi, Montevideo and São Paulo return as HSBC SVNS 2 hosts following their involvement in the inaugural competition in 2026, reinforcing World Rugby’s commitment to taking international sevens to growing markets around the world.
World Rugby Sevens World Series General Manager, Sam Pinder said: “We are delighted to confirm the return of Nairobi, Montevideo and São Paulo for HSBC SVNS 2 in 2027. Last season demonstrated the importance of this competition in providing teams with a clear and highly competitive pathway to the HSBC SVNS World Championship, while bringing international sevens to passionate rugby audiences around the world.
“With qualification for LA28 coming into focus, every stage of the pathway takes on even greater significance. We look forward to working with our host unions and partners to build on the success of last season and deliver three outstanding events for the teams and fans.”
The three HSBC SVNS 2 events will provide another important stage for teams pursuing progression through the global sevens pathway, with the 2027 season carrying additional significance as the race towards LA28 gathers pace.
Further information on the HSBC SVNS Series can be found at SVNS.com, further HSBC SVNS 2 competition and ticket information will be announced in due course with a HSBC SVNS 3 announcement to also follow….PACNEWS
AUST – GOLF: GOLF /PGA AUSTRALIA PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 20 Oct 2026
Dates confirmed for 2027 women’s Australian Open
SYDNEY, 20 OCTOBER 2026 (GOLF/PGA AUSTRALIA) —The 2027 women’s Australian Open is locked in for 11–14 March with Royal Adelaide Golf Club to host the championship as it returns to one of the country’s premier golfing venues.
Co-sanctioned by the WPGA Tour of Australasia and the Ladies European Tour (LET), the national Open will return to South Australia for the sixth time, attracting some of the best women golfers from across the globe.
Following Hannah Green’s drought-breaking victory for Australians at their national championship at Kooyonga Golf Club earlier this year, the 2027 tournament will be the second delivered under a multi-year partnership between Golf Australia, the South Australian Government and the South Australian Tourism Commission which will see the state host at least six more men’s and women’s Australian Opens.
Known as the Festival State, South Australia has established a reputation as a world-class destination for golf, major events, food, wine and tourism. The 2027 women’s Australian Open will add to the state’s growing sporting calendar and form part of Adelaide’s ‘March Madness’, alongside AFL Gather Round, Adelaide Fringe, WOMADelaide and the Adelaide Festival.
The 2026 event delivered a memorable moment for Australian golf, with major champion Hannah Green becoming the first Australian since five-time major champion Karrie Webb in 2014 to claim the title.
It was part of an historic three consecutive victories for Green, lifting her to a career best No.5 in the world rankings.
Golf Australia and PGA of Australia’s General Manager of Major Events and Operations Antonia Beggs said: “We are very excited to return to Adelaide in the middle of March for the 2027 women’s Australian Open at Royal Adelaide.”
“Our multi-year partnership with the South Australian Government demonstrates a clear commitment to women’s golf. The long-term nature of the agreement gives us a great opportunity to continue building the national Open and deliver an even bigger and better experience for players and fans.
“It was very special to see Hannah Green lift the Patricia Bridges Bowl this year, and I have no doubt Royal Adelaide will provide a world-class stage for many more special moments when we welcome a fantastic field of Australians and international players back to South Australia for the 2027 women’s Australian Open in March.”
WPGA Tour of Australasia CEO Karen Lunn said: “Royal Adelaide Golf Club is a magnificent golf course, and we’re delighted to be bringing the women’s Australian Open back to South Australia in 2027.
“Seeing Hannah Green claim the Australian Open title in Adelaide earlier this year was a huge highlight for Australian golf, particularly after such a long wait for a home winner.
“We look forward to welcoming players, fans and the local community back to Adelaide next year for another fantastic event and another opportunity to showcase the best of women’s golf in Australia.”
South Australian Minister for Tourism, Emily Bourke MLC said it’s fantastic to once again welcome the world’s best golfers, and golfing fans from around the country to Adelaide for the women’s Australian Open.
“We are looking forward to hosting this internationally-renowned event again next March, following the success of last year’s event and once more showcase South Australia on the world stage, driving visitation to our great state.
“Hosting the world’s best golfers and witnessing the talent first hand is also a powerful motivator to inspire more South Australians, especially young athletes to get active and thrive in their chosen sport and to help grow female participation.”
The Royal Adelaide Golf Club Captain Sarah Chia said: “The Royal Adelaide Golf Club is immensely proud to be hosting the 2027 women’s Australian Open. We are excited to welcome some of the world’s finest women golfers to our historic course and look forward to showcasing Royal Adelaide on the international stage. It is a wonderful opportunity for our Club, our members and South Australian golf”
“Preparations are already well underway across the Club as we work closely with Golf Australia to deliver a world-class championship experience. Our focus is on presenting the course at its very best and creating a memorable occasion for both competitors and spectators. We look forward to welcoming the golfing community to Royal Adelaide in March.” …PACNEWS
