Bostock hat-trick lifts Australia past New Zealand

Australia opened its 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign with a 24-22 victory over New Zealand, as debutant Jack Bostock scored three tries, including the late score that put the Kangaroos ahead. The match was played at Allianz Stadium in Sydney on October 15. Bostock’s decisive try came in the closing stages, when he rose to collect a Cameron Munster kick and scored despite pressure from New Zealand winger Jamayne Isaako. Australia held on for the two-point win after a match in which the lead changed hands several times in the second half. New Zealand led 22-16 after fullback Kalyn Ponga scored twice following halftime. His second try came from an individual run that beat Australian defenders Reece Walsh and Cameron Munster. Walsh responded with an 80-metre try that brought Australia back within two points, setting up Bostock’s match-winning score. The teams were level 10-10 at halftime. New Zealand opened the scoring through Casey McLean, while Australia answered with intercept tries by Bostock and Tom Trbojevic. Kotoni Staggs was sent to the sin bin before the break, and New Zealand took advantage to draw level with a penalty goal. Bostock’s three tries included an...