In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — ‘That’s what we’re set up to do’: Kevin Senio reflects on Moana Pasifika’s legacy
2. RUGBY — Former England No.8 confident of getting Flying Fijians debut
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — CEO stresses PNG Chiefs’ objectives
4. RUGBY — QVS fly-half Raibevu earns Fijian Drua Development Squad spot
5. HANDBALL — Handball Fiji names squad for IHF Women’s Youth World Championship Debut
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Season over for Brooks; Katoa fractures wrist
7. RUGBY LEAGUE — We’re coming: Rivals jostling to topple NRLW heavyweights
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — Broncos’ season takes another turn as star dropped over alleged drink-driving, traffic offences
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — Sasagi’s secret: Music, mindset and an appetite for hard work
10. RUGBY — Bostock to debut, To’o axed as Blues make six changes for decider
11. RUGBY — Wallabies out to unleash Euro-hardened Tupou, Bell for Irish challenge
12. RUGBY — Rennie adopts basic All Blacks game plan for France Test
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
‘That’s what we’re set up to do’: Kevin Senio reflects on Moana Pasifika’s legacy
AUCKLAND, 30 JUNE 2026 (PMN)—Moana Pasifika’s departure from Super Rugby has prompted a period of raw reflection for those who helped build the franchise from the ground up.
Speaking on Pacific Huddle, Moana Pasifika talent manager Kevin Senio opened up about the emotion that has followed the decision and the pride he still holds in what the club achieved.
What began as a concept just a few years ago grew into a professional pathway that helped elevate Pacific rugby talent onto the international stage. Looking back, Senio paid tribute to the many Pacific people whose efforts helped bring the vision to life.
Among the franchise’s proudest achievements, Senio pointed to the number of players who progressed through the system to represent Sāmoa and Tonga.
“In terms of selection, 35 have debuted through Moana, possibly for either Sāmoa or Tonga… there’s at least 30 that are representing Sāmoa … or Tonga in the calendar year through the Moana pathway.
“That’s what we’re set up to do and it’s been a joy to watch our young men grow.”
Senio also acknowledged those who came through directly from the Islands, where professional rugby opportunities remain limited.
The former All Black said the challenge now is ensuring that pathway continues in some form, despite the franchise’s closure.
“That’s what our aspirations are now and the passion of our drive, to help, and it won’t finish here, it’ll come in some type of form… hopefully in the next 12 to 18 months.”
The disbandment comes after New Zealand Rugby (NZR) announced last week that it would not approve the transfer of Moana Pasifika’s licence to a new ownership group.
In a statement, NZR chief financial officer Chris Kinraid acknowledged the impact the decision would have across the wider Moana Pasifika community.
“This has been a difficult time for the Moana Pasifika players, management and fans, and the communities that supported them. A lot of hard work has gone into looking at all possibilities for next season.
“Unfortunately, the long-term financial requirements to participate in the competition could not be met,” Kinraid said.
For those within the organisation, Senio said the disappointment has been felt far beyond the playing group.
“It’s been tough,” Senio said.
“We’re just dealing with it… probably for me personally as well as that thinking of others and the impact it’s had… really proud of the journey to date.”
While the news remains fresh, Senio said he remains grateful for what the franchise achieved during its six-year existence.
“I’m really proud of the effort by everyone involved… just pushing this together and those that are go-getters and in governance. I tell you everyone’s hearts and aspirations… was to lead by Pacific for Pacific.
“And we’re really proud of the work done to date… it’s an opportunity for reflection… but also missed opportunity too around the pipeline and the work that’s being done, but at the same time that’s life,” he said…. PACNEWS
UK – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Former England No.8 confident of getting Flying Fijians debut
LONDON, 30 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—It is only a matter of time before former England No.8 Nathan Hughes plays for his country, Fiji.
Hughes, who played for the Barbarians in their 31-33 loss to Wales in London Sunday, said he has been assured “the door is always open” as he waits to make his debut for the Flying Fijians.
The 35-year-old, who has played 22 Test matches for England, was named in the 50-member Flying Fijians squad for the Nations Championship but was not included in the 32-member squad announced by interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula.
The Flying Fijians arrived in Cardiff on Friday, where they have begun preparations for Sunday’s (Fiji time) opener against Wales.
This will be followed by their clash against England at the Dickinson Hill Stadium in Liverpool on July 11 before travelling to Edinburgh to face Scotland on July 18.
Hughes, who resurrected his career playing in Japan, has been impressing for Racing 92, which reached the Top 14 play-off semi-finals before losing to Toulouse.
According to RugbyPass, key players such as Hughes, former France international Virimi Vakatawa, Apolosi Ranawai and Vilive Miramira were among a group excluded earlier because of injuries or limited game time but have since returned to action.
They are being monitored by Seruvakula and his coaching staff, who said: “We put in the best 50 but there are other players outside that 50 who we are still monitoring and know that they are available.
“That is why I’m making all the connections with all these players, talking to them regularly, telling them the expectations and how we are going to do these three matches in the Nations Championships.
“It’s a big year this year, we got these three games then the Pacific Nations Cup in Japan and then the remaining Nations Championships games in November.
“So, anything can happen and we want to start with the foundations, get the 32 in and after the first three Nations Championships matches, they might have to return to their clubs or get injured, so the door is always open.’
However, the major return to the squad comes in the form of dynamic back-rower Peceli Yato.
The 33-year-old withdrew from the national squad before the 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC) and has not featured in international colours since.
His call-up to this summer’s Nations Championship will complete his much-anticipated comeback ahead of next year’s Rugby World Cup.
“I was happy. Like any other Fijian rugby player, it’s a privilege to wear the white jersey,” Yato told FRU Media as he credited “families and especially fans” for his return…. PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
CEO stresses PNG Chiefs’ objectives
PORT MORESBY, 30 JUNE 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—The 19th NRL franchise, the Papua New Guinea Chiefs, is continuing to build momentum internationally with the aim of becoming Papua New Guinea’s first major rugby league franchise built to survive and succeed as a standalone sporting business.
In a bold shift away from traditional Government-backed sporting models, Chiefs executive officer Lorna McPherson reiterated that the club’s future would be driven by commercial strength, private investment and long-term financial independence with a clear goal of operating without ongoing Government support.
Since 2024 and through to 2034, the Chiefs are funded by the Australian government through a regional package covering other Pacific Island countries Tonga, Fiji and Samoa. Of the total AUD$600-million(US$413 million) package, the PNG Chiefs have been allocated AUD$385 million (about K1.2 billion) spread over 10 years.
McPherson told The National last Tuesday that the Chiefs have received AUD$90 million, or at least K247 million, of their allocation. She said the funding would be used for the construction of a Centre of Excellence.
McPherson stressed that the Chiefs are not being created as a State-owned enterprise but as a sustainable organisation capable of generating its own income and creating lasting value for the country.
“Our objective is to build a commercially sustainable club with strong revenues from sponsorships, memberships, merchandise, events and broadcasting,” McPherson again stressed to The National.
She said the strategy marks a modern approach to sports management, where success is measured not only by what happens during the 80 minutes on the field, but also by financial strength, commercial growth and long-term stability off the field.
Under this vision, the Chiefs aim to create multiple income streams through strong corporate partnerships, loyal membership programs, growing merchandise sales and valuable event and broadcast opportunities, she explained.
McPherson said the ultimate target is for the franchise to become profitable and operate independently without relying on continued government funding.
The model is also expected to open the door for greater private sector investment, creating confidence among businesses and commercial partners wanting to support rugby league in Papua New Guinea.
But the Chiefs’ ambitions extend beyond finances. The franchise hopes to create lasting economic opportunities, strengthen community engagement and continue driving the growth of rugby league across the country.
According to McPherson, the Chiefs project is also expected to deliver stronger player pathways for local talent, create employment opportunities and help position Papua New Guinea as an emerging force in international rugby league.
As planning and preparations continues for their NRL entry in 2028, the Chiefs are building more than just a team but a business model aimed at delivering lasting sporting and economic success for the rugby league mad-nation….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
QVS fly-half Raibevu earns Fijian Drua Development Squad spot
NADI, 30 JUNE 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The Fijian Drua’s grassroots development programme has produced another success story, with Queen Victoria School fly-half Jone Raibevu earning a place in the club’s Development Squad after being identified through the Drua Foundation’s talent scouting network.
Raibevu was first spotted during the Drua Foundation’s scouting programme in 2024 before progressing through the club’s Junior Development Programme, highlighting the growing success of Fiji’s rugby talent pathway.
Fijian Drua chief executive officer Jeff Miller said the signing demonstrated the value of investing in young players from an early age.
“Jone’s signing is another great example of what can be achieved when the Fiji Rugby Union and the Drua invest in identifying and developing young Fijian talent from an early age,” Miller said.
“He first came onto our radar through our scouting programme and has continued to impress at every stage of his journey, from the Academy to now earning a place in our Development Squad.”
Miller described Raibevu as an exciting prospect with the qualities needed to succeed at the professional level.
“Jone is an exciting young player with a strong skill set, excellent game awareness and outstanding athletic ability. Just as importantly, he has shown the dedication, work ethic and character that we value at the Fijian Drua.”
He said Raibevu’s rise reflected the success of the Drua Foundation’s commitment to identifying and nurturing Fiji’s next generation of rugby players.
“His journey demonstrates the success of the Fiji Rugby Union’s pathways and the important role the Drua Foundation continues to play in helping talented young players from across Fiji realise their potential.”
The Kalabu, Naitasiri, youngster first attracted national attention during the 2024 Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Eastern Zone competition before joining the inaugural Drua Junior Development Programme.
Excited about the opportunity, Raibevu said: “I was really surprised when I got the call about the opportunity. I was also excited when the Drua committee told me that I’ll be joining the Drua Development next season.”
Raibevu becomes the latest young player to progress through the Club’s development system. He now joins the Development Squad as he works towards higher honours….PACNEWS
FIJI – HANDBALL: HANDBALL FIJI PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Handball Fiji names squad for IHF Women’s Youth World Championship Debut
SUVA, 30 JUNE 2026 (HANDBALL FIJI) —Handball Fiji has named 12 young women who will make sporting history when they become the first Pacific Island nation to compete at the International Handball Federation (IHF) Women’s Youth (U18) World Championship in Romania from 29 July 29 to 09 August.
The squad was selected following months of intensive training, with the final team chosen from an initial 22-member national training squad.
Drawn in Group A, Fiji will face handball giants France, Croatia and Egypt in its World Championship debut.
“This is much bigger than handball. These young women are making history for Fiji, for Oceania and for every young girl who dreams of representing her country,” said Head of Delegation Lusiana Rokoura.
“They have earned their place through hard work, determination and resilience. Despite limited resources, they have shown they belong on the world stage and will proudly wear the Fiji flag against some of the world’s strongest handball nations.”
While qualification has been secured on the court, Handball Fiji is calling on the corporate sector and the public to help fund the team’s journey to Romania.
The costs of international airfares, accommodation, competition preparation, equipment and medical support remain significant, and sponsorship is critical to ensuring the team can perform at its best.
“Every contribution is an investment in the future of women’s sport, youth development and Fiji’s long-term Olympic aspirations. This World Championship is the first step on our pathway towards the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games,” Rokoura said.
Handball Fiji invites businesses, organisations and the Fijian diaspora to partner with the team as it prepares to represent the nation on the biggest stage in youth handball…..PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Season over for Brooks; Katoa fractures wrist
SYDNEY, 30 JUNE 2026 (NRL)—Sea Eagles five-eighth Luke Brooks will miss the rest of the 2026 season after scans confirmed he had ruptured his ACL during Saturday’s win over the Storm.
Brooks was in obvious pain as he fell awkwardly into a 27th minute tackle by Trent Toelau but played on until half-time before being replaced by boom rookie Joey Walsh.
The 31-year-old playmaker will undergo surgery this week.
“It’s so disappointing for Brooksie. He’s been playing such good footy for us,” said coach Kieran Foran.
“We will put our full support around him through what will be a lengthy rehab.”
The Storm lost second-rower Ativalu Lisati with a syndesmosis injury after a hip drop tackle by rookie Sea Eagles playmaker Joey Walsh, and centres Joe Chan (back spasms) and Moses Leo (concussion) following a mistimed tackle on Haumole Olakau’atu.
Storm coach Craig Bellamy said Lisati was likely to require season-ending surgery.
Dolphins halfback Isaiya Katoa is facing an extended stint on the sideline after fracturing his wrist against the Warriors.
Initially thought to be a dislocation, scans to assess the damage revealed a fracture.
Katoa will now be booked into surgery which will give him a better indication of a return date.
For the Warriors, winger Dallin Watene-Zelezniak came off in the second half with a reported hamstring issue.
In Newcastle on Sunday, Wests Tigers centre Taylan May suffered a dislocated shoulder for the third time this season as he tried to tackle Jermaine McEwen front-on.
May dislocated his shoulder in Round 2 and again in Round 11 and could now he headed for surgery.
The Tigers went into the match without Jock Madden (concussion) and Patrick Herbert (shoulder) while lock Alex Twal (knee) had his return delayed until Round 18.
The Broncos were dealt a blow early in Friday’s clash with the Roosters after Xavier Willison failed his HIA. He will now enter the NRL’s concussion protocol.
Roosters prop Lindsay Collins also failed a HIA in that match and will miss the Origin decider on July 8 as the 11-day concussion protocol won’t finish until the day before Game Three and the Maroons chose not to risk him.
The torrid contest continued into the second half with Brisbane forward Aublix Tawha leaving the field late in the match with a lower leg injury.
The Bronco fell awkwardly in a tackle that saw Roosters forward Nat Butcher placed on report for a hip-drop tackle after he landed on Tawha’s legs.
Tawha was placed in a boot post-game and will be sent for scans to determine the severity of the ankle injury.
Earlier on Friday, Bulldogs winger Jacob Kiraz suffered a rib cartilage injury in his side’s win over the Titans.
The outside back picked up the injury late in the first half and returned for the second but left the game soon after and did not return.
“He did a rib cartilage in the first half,” coach Cameron Ciraldo said. “It wasn’t ideal. He got a needle at half-time but it didn’t work. We’ve got the bye now so hopefully he can get himself right, get his body right for our next game.”
Rabbitohs superstar Latrell Mitchell suffered a calf injury at training ahead of Round 17 and faces another a month on the sidelines.
Mitchell has been out of action since Round 11 with a bulging disc in his back that affected the star’s centre strength and mobility.
The Storm were without halfback Jahrome Hughes for their clash with Manly due to a low-grade hamstring strain while centre Jack Howarth (quad contusion) also missed the trip to 4 Pines Park.
The Warriors are set to be without prop Jackson Ford for 10-12 weeks after he tore his pectoral muscle against the Cowboys.
Should the Warriors progress past week one of the finals then Ford may be a chance of returning this season.
The Bulldogs will be without back-rower Sitili Tupouniua for eight weeks after he injured his hamstring in the win over Manly.
Tupouniua had produced another powerful display with 20 runs for 139 metres before suffering the injury in the final play of the game.
Newcastle forward Pasami Saulo is facing an extended stint on the sidelines after fracturing his foot at training.
The 27-year-old has undergone surgery to repair the bone and is expected to return to the field in six weeks….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
We’re coming: Rivals jostling to topple NRLW heavyweights
SYDNEY, 30 JUNE 2026 (NRL)—We’re coming for you.
That’s the message from the NRLW clubs as they look to chase down competition heavyweights Brisbane and the Roosters.
The two teams dominated last season before facing off in an epic grand final, with the Broncos ultimately prevailing after Mele Hufanga scored with five minutes remaining to end the Roosters’ hopes of going back-to-back.
There is an acknowledgement heading into 2027 that last year’s grand finalists are again the teams to beat but Dragons captain Brooke Anderson said the gap is clearly closing.
“They’re the pinnacle of our game at the moment,” Anderson said. “The important thing is we’re bridging the gap between the best and the worst.
“Every team looks really happy this season and I’m excited to see everyone goes.”
Knights captain Yasmin Meakes agrees the gap from top to bottom is closer than it’s ever been.
“We saw in the trials, the Warriors gave Brisbane a bit of a shake up, but they still look classy and the Roosters showed their depth in their squad with a lot of players not available,” Meakes said.
“I’m excited to see how everyone shapes up. There’s not much between the teams anymore, it will come down to whoever can perform on the day.”
The ninth NRLW season will kick off on Thursday night when the Sharks host the Knights at Ocean Protect Stadium.
There have been plenty of changes across the league since last season, headlined by former Newcastle halfback Jesse Southwell’s decision to join the Broncos.
Brisbane have also gained Test front-rower Shannon Mato but have lost Hufanga and Gayle Broughton to the Warriors, while Keilee Joseph has moved to Parramatta.
The Wests Tigers have added Shaylee Bent and Holli Wheeler, with Brooke Anderson moving from Cronulla to the Dragons.
While plenty has changed in Brisbane throughout the past six months, the Broncos are embracing the pressure of defending their title.
“It’s really hard to get to the top and win a premiership, but it’s another level trying to retain it and hold on to it,” experienced forward Brianna Clark said. “It’s a challenge we’ve talked about and we’re excited to face.
“The team is different and it’s definitely a different feel but it’s exciting and we’ve got some really good additions to the side.
“It’s exciting to have teams chasing us, there’s pressure for us to stay ahead and it’s good for the competition. Pressure is a good thing, it keeps you accountable and you either crack under it or you thrive so hopefully we’ll thrive.”
While the Broncos and Roosters were the standout clubs in 2025, there were clear signs the gap is closing.
The Sharks came within a point of upsetting John Strange’s side in a thrilling preliminary final and had a chance to win it in the final play before the Roosters made a desperate try-saving tackle.
The Knights have lost Southwell but they’ve added representative half Kirra Dibb and continue to rebuild around a talented crop of emerging juniors.
The Titans have been a perennial contender for the past few years and have added rugby sevens star Teagan Levi and emerging centre Indie Bostock to their squad this season.
North Queensland took a big step forward in 2025 and secured a home semi-final for the first time, ultimately going down to Cronulla in a hard-fought contest.
The Cowboys open their season against Brisbane at Suncorp Stadium on Saturday night and forward Bree Chester said it’s a great opportunity to showcase their title credentials.
“We’re lucky to play the Broncos in Round 1 this week, it’ll be a good test to see where we are against them,” Chester said.
“I am confident we are closing that gap. Our team has worked really hard in the pre-season, we’re looking really good at training so I’m excited to go against them and put it together.”
Like the Broncos, the Roosters enter the season knowing they have a host of rivals nipping at their heels.
Captain Isabelle Kelly is pleased with where her team sits leading into Round 1 but recognises they can’t rely on last year if they want to return to the grand final.
“Things are going to be a bit different this year,” Kelly said. “We’ve got some new players coming in, a few things have changed with how we play.
“We’ve tinkered a few things but it’s been positive. We’re working on things we know we can be better and individually working to be better. Working on those combinations, the little areas you can do to help the team.”…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: FOX SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Broncos’ season takes another turn as star dropped over alleged drink-driving, traffic offences
BRISBANE, 30 JUNE 2026 (FOX SPORTS)—The Broncos confirmed in a statement on Monday that Karapani was allegedly caught travelling at 119km per hour in a 100km/h zone on the Pacific Motorway at MacGregor in Brisbane’s south on Sunday morning and then stopped by Queensland Police.
Karapani received an infringement notice for the speeding offence along with further fines for ‘Failure to display P plates’, ‘Driving an unregistered vehicle’ and ‘Driving an uninsured vehicle’.
Following the roadside stop, Karapani was taken to Holland Park Police Station where he returned a reading of 0.037 after being subject to a breath analysis.
As a provisional licence holder, Karapani is subject to a zero-blood alcohol concentration and was subsequently issued with a notice to appear in court on July 21 in relation to the drink driving offence.
The Broncos informed the NRL Integrity Unit of the incident and confirmed Karapani has been dropped from Saturday’s game against the Sharks.
The latest incident comes after Karapani was hit with a fine and month-long ban from Brisbane’s Fortitude Valley precinct by Queensland Police in March for being a ‘public nuisance’.
That alleged incident took place just hours after Brisbane’s win over the Dolphins and resulted in Karapani being stood down by the club’s leadership group ahead of the game against the Gold Coast the following week.
“It’s important everyone knows the standards and culture of this club that we are setting is above any player or person in this organisation,” Adam Reynolds said at the time.
“Everyone needs to jump on board or you risk facing some time away from the team.
“Josiah is fully aware of the mistake he has made and is fully apologetic towards the group. I am sure he won’t make that mistake again. He is a big part of our team but unfortunately he won’t be there this week.”…PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Sasagi’s secret: Music, mindset and an appetite for hard work
CANBERRA, 30 JUNE 2206 (NRL)—Simi Sasagi’s long-awaited return from injury wasn’t just about rebuilding his body, it was also about protecting his mindset.
The Raiders centre returned in Sunday’s 24-16 victory over the Dragons after five weeks on the sidelines with a shoulder injury suffered in Round 10.
Making an immediate impact with 238 running metres, Sasagi’s performance was the reward for countless hours spent working his way back, much of it alone in the gym.
Rather than kicking stones, the 25-year-old made the conscious decision to focus on what he could control, distancing himself from the team so he could concentrate on both his physical rehabilitation and mental resilience.
“To be honest, I just focused on myself. I distanced myself from the boys and the team,” he said.
“The more I thought about not playing, the more it hurt, because I couldn’t really help the team.
“I tried to focus on what I could control and that was in the gym and what I was doing with my shoulder. I just put my head down and put the work in.”
It wasn’t just distance that helped Sasagi get back on the field but also a spiritual connection to music which started from a young age.
The 25-year-old old NRL.com it has always been a constant in his life and something he leans on to look after his state of mind.
“Music helps me with my head, my well-being. When I’m feeling down I put on some chill music just to get away from the world,” he said.
“I kind of mix and match with different types of songs, gospel songs and a couple of Samoan hymns just to keep me chill.”
Raiders coach Ricky Stuart said Sasagi’s slashing return highlighted just how much they had missed him across a five-game stretch that produced just one win.
“It’s amazing how he’s been out for so long and he’s come back and had that impact,” Stuart said.
“You can’t cry over injuries and who you haven’t got in the team, but I think his performance today just shows you how much we missed him.
“He’s been a massive out for us and he had a big contribution towards that win.”
While shoulder surgery is expected to be on the cards at the end of the season, Sasagi hopes to delay the procedure long enough to earn selection for Samoa at the Rugby League World Cup.
“My shoulder held up this game. I put a lot of work into the last five weeks of my rehab,” he said.
“My mind’s on seeing every week out and hopefully we’ll see how it goes,” he said …. PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Bostock to debut, To’o axed as Blues make six changes for decider
SYDNEY, 30 JUNE 2026 (NRL)—Dolphins back Jack Bostock will make his Origin debut in the 08 July series decider at Suncorp Stadium after NSW coach Laurie Daley made six changes to the side beaten in Game II.
Bostock, who has been named on the wing, will join centres Stephen Crichton and Bradman Best, secondrower Liam Martin, interchange forward Haumole Olakau’atu and dummy half Blayke Brailey as the new faces in the Blues side.
Crichton and Brailey return from injury after playing in Origin I while Olakau’atu has been recalled. Martin and Best have previously played for NSW but were overlooked for the opening two matches of the series.
The players to make way are Panthers winger Brian To’o, Broncos centre Kotoni Staggs, Knights secondrower Dylan Lucas, Wests Tiger Api Koroisau and Roosters Victor Radley, who was named as 20th man.
Sea Eagles back Tolu Koula, who played on the wing in Origin I and centres in Origin II, has been dropped to the bench. Raiders five-eighth Ethan Strange, who starred in Origin I, is again on the interchange.
There was no room for no room for Manly’s Tom Trbojevic.
Daley said the changes reflected the belief within the Blues camp that previous Origin experience would be crucial for a series decider in Brisbane, with Bostock the only debutant in the squad.
He replaces To’o, who has played 17 consecutive Origins for NSW since 2021 but has been targeted under the high ball in the opening two matches of the series as the Maroons have matched the taller Selwyn Cobbo and Jo Jo Fifita against him.
“All of these players have played Origin before, and Jack was a part of the 19-man squad down in Melbourne,” Daley said. “He’s a big body, he’s an aerial threat and he’s someone that we think will do well in Game III.
“It was a difficult decision, Bizza has been one of my personal favourites and is someone who has been the Brad Fittler Medal winner – he won that last year.
He’s given great service to NSW and I’m sure he’ll be back, but just for this game, we just feel like we just needed to make that change. Jack’s a young man, he gets his opportunity and we expect him to play well.”
After being dropped for Lucas in Origin II, Olakau’atu has responded in the best possible way for Manly to force his way back into the squad.
However, the Tongan international will have to make his return from the bench after Daley recalled Martin, who has been a mainstay of NSW and Australian team since 2021.
“He’s had four games back now from injury, and he’s a guy that has never let NSW down,” Daley said of Martin. “He does bring that aggression.
“He understands Origin. He understands what we’re about to walk into up there at Suncorp Stadium, so I’m sure Liam will be very excited about the opportunity.
“I think with Haumole, it was just a matter of the way we wanted to play in Game II, and then the balance of our team for Game III, just to have him on the bench.
“We believe he can make an impact in that position, so that’s the reason why we’ve gone that way this time around. They’re always hard decisions.”
Martin will start alongside Canberra’s Hudson Young in the secondrow, with Panthers team-mate Isaah Yeo retained at lock despite the claims of South Sydney’s Cameron Murray, who has again been named on the bench.
Brisbane’s Payne Haas and Warriors prop Mitch Barnett will start in the frontrow, with Cronulla and Tonga enforcer Addin Fonua-Blake on the interchange.
Roosters hooker Reece Robson and Brailey will share the dummy half duties as they did in Origin I, before the latter broke his arm playing for the Sharks.
Crichton was initially named for Origin II but ruled out with a shoulder injury. However, he has starred for the Bulldogs in back-to-back wins against the Sea Eagles and Titans in the new role of five-eighth.
The Samoa superstar is considered the best defensive centre in the game and he will be tasked with shutting down Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Cobbo, who scored four tries on Queensland’s left edge in Melbourne.
Best has played for the Blues previously and scored a try in the 2024 decider at Suncorp Stadium as NSW overcame defeat in the opening game to win the series.
“With Bradman, we just felt we probably just needed someone there that has experienced Lang Park before, someone that’s a big body and who defends really well and carries the football strongly,” Daley said.
“Tolu has been excellent for us in Game One and Two, but we just felt like that combination of Bradman and Jack can give us something a little bit different to what we’ve had.”
Westpac NSW Blues squad
1. James Tedesco (Sydney Roosters)
2. Jack Bostock (Dolphins)*
3. Bradman Best (Newcastle Knights)
4. Stephen Crichton (Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs)
5. Mark Nawaqanitawase (Sydney Roosters)
6. Mitchell Moses (Parramatta Eels)
7. Nathan Cleary (Penrith Panthers)
8. Payne Haas (Brisbane Broncos)
9. Reece Robson (Sydney Roosters)
10. Mitchell Barnett (Warriors)
11. Hudson Young (Canberra Raiders)
12. Liam Martin (Penrith Panthers)
13. Isaah Yeo (c) (Penrith Panthers)
14. Cameron Murray (South Sydney Rabbitohs)
15. Addin Fonua-Blake (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
16. Haumole Olakau’atu (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles)
17. Blayke Brailey (Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks)
18. Ethan Strange (Canberra Raiders)
19. Toluta’u Koula (Manly Warringah Sea Eagles)
20. Victor Radley (Sydney Roosters)…PACNWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Wallabies out to unleash Euro-hardened Tupou, Bell for Irish challenge
SYDNEY, 30 JUNE 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Wallabies scrum coach John Ulugia is backing the growth of Taniela Tupou and Angus Bell overseas to make a difference against Ireland on Saturday, drawing on their European success.
The pair have returned home after stints with Racing 92 and Ulster in European competitions, with Tupou still signed with the French club post 2026.
This, along with the return of the experienced James Slipper and Allan Alaalatoa, leaves the Wallabies in a good place to match Ireland up front, according to Ulugia.
“I think that there’s a big advantage to playing over in Europe. You’ve seen a lot of development through some of the guys, especially in the tight five, go over and really flourish in their careers in the set-piece areas,” he said to reporters.
“I’m looking to lean on ‘Nela’s’ experience over the last 10 years of his Super [career] but also his last year with Racing, same as ‘Belly’.
“The Irish are well known for their scrummaging. Obviously there’s a lot of combinations there in their front row, the bulk of them being at Leinster. There are obviously challenges there and what we’ve had already is a good week together and then we’re just going to tighten the screws there for this weekend.”
Tupou was largely used as a finisher in Racing’s march to the semi-finals, starting just once in 2026.
It’s a stark contrast to how coach Joe Schmidt has utilised the 30-year-old, with Ulugia seeing the advantages of both.
“The Top 14 is quite unique because usually what they will have is their best scrummaging players on the bench, obviously to finish games with dominant pictures and then that’s the difference between winning and losing in Top 14,” the former Clermont hooker explained.
“There’s different areas of the game that you have to look at as well. Obviously, scrummaging for his position is a big one, but then also what he offers around the field, ball in hand, and we saw last year against the English team, where he can really put some good shots on in defence too.
“We’ve got Allan [Alaalatoa] as well as ‘Nela’ in that position and it’s just about finding the balance around what teams we’re playing and who fits best to start or come off the bench.”
Ulugia first linked up with the Wallabies on last year’s Spring Tour after Mike Cron retired from the full-time team role, with the ex-Brumbies hooker keen to make his own impact after re-signing until 2028.
“I think with the pack that we’ve got to spread the ownership around the leadership of players that we’ve got, the leaders that we’ve got in the Australian team but also the guys that are coming through like [Lachlan] Shaw in his first time in the group and how he’s seen the group from outside and how he wants to be seen as a group in general,” he added.
“It’s going to be driven around what the players decide there and how they want to be known but in terms of my role it’s just about facilitating and helping them come through from Super Rugby into international,” he said…PACNEWS
NZ – RUGBY: AFP PACNEWS SPORT: Tue 30 Jun 2026
Rennie adopts basic All Blacks game plan for France Test
CHRISTCHURCH, 30 JUNE 2026 (AFP)—Coach Dave Rennie said on Sunday he only has time to implement a “simple structure” for his first assignment in charge of the All Blacks, a heavyweight showdown with France.
Rennie’s short 10-day preparation time means he’ll establish a basic game plan for their opening Nations Championship Test in Christchurch on Saturday.
The former Wallabies coach was named to replace the sacked Scott Robertson as New Zealand’s head coach in March but has had little involvement since because of a club contract in Japan that finished this month.
Rennie said he had only coached a handful of the 34-strong playing group previously.
“I’m enjoying it, it’s been good getting to know them better,” he told journalists after the team arrived in Christchurch.
“A lot of it now is around a simple structure from an attack point of view, getting really good connection defensively, and we just want the guys to get out there and be really clear and play.”
Rennie said star fullback Will Jordan has overcome a calf muscle complaint, while key forwards Wallace Sititi and Tupou Vai’i have recovered from head knocks.
All three missed the closing stages of Super Rugby this month because of injury.
Rennie played down a suggestion that France will be vulnerable because their coach, Fabien Galthie, hasn’t selected players from Toulouse and Montpellier, who contested this weekend’s Top-14 domestic final.
“People will talk about the fact that Toulouse are playing this weekend, and so they’ll be missing them, but there’ll be 11 players from Bordeaux, the European champions,” Rennie said.
“France have 28 professional sides, but they have the greatest depth in world rugby, and so they’ve always got a lot of quality players to pick from.
“Fabien’s smart, and so they’ll have a plan around what things look like. They’ll be a good side.”
Veteran hooker Codie Taylor said Rennie had made an immediate impression with the players.
“He’s not afraid to be the boss, he definitely owns the room when he speaks, but in a way that’s not too daunting,” Taylor said.
“It’s just in a way that you respect and you know what he wants out there on the field,” he said…PACNEWS
