Skip to main content
See every side of every news story
Published • loading... • Updated

Rugby League World Cup: Kiwis Kick Tonga Out on Way to Final

Kalyn Ponga returned 23 days after breaking his arm and set up three tries as New Zealand reached its first final in 13 years.

  • On Saturday, New Zealand defeated Tonga 34-10 at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, securing a place in the Rugby League World Cup final. Fullback Kalyn Ponga inspired the Kiwis with a starring performance in his return.
  • Returning 23 days after fracturing his forearm against Australia, Ponga's participation marked a surprise comeback. The Kiwis had built toward this World Cup appearance for years, seeking their second title since 2008.
  • Captain James Fisher-Harris praised Ponga, who played all 80 minutes and set up three tries. The fullback executed a tackle on Demitric Vaimauga that commentator Andrew Voss called "incredible."
  • Struggling against windy conditions, Tonga was eliminated in the semi-finals for the second time. Earlier that day, New Zealand's women's team also advanced to their World Cup final after defeating Samoa 32-0.
  • The Kiwis will face either Australia or Samoa in the final on November 15 in Brisbane. New Zealand aims to win their second tournament title, having last appeared in the championship decider 13 years ago.
Insights by Ground AI

22 Articles

Sydney Morning HeraldSydney Morning Herald
+3 Reposted by 3 other sources
Lean Left

New Zealand soars to World Cup finals

New Zealand took a commanding victory over Tonga and booked their place in the Rugby League World Cup final.

·North Sydney, Australia
Read Full Article
France24France24
+2 Reposted by 2 other sources
Center

New Zealand sweep into Rugby League World Cup final

·Issy-les-Moulineaux, France
Read Full Article
Think freely.Subscribe and get full access to Ground NewsSubscriptions start at $9.99/yearSubscribe

Bias Distribution

  • 50% of the sources lean Left
50% Left

Factuality Info Icon

To view factuality data please Upgrade to Premium

Ownership

Info Icon

To view ownership data please Upgrade to Vantage

Fox Sports Australia broke the news in Australia on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
Too Big Arrow Icon
Sources are mostly out of (0)

Similar News Topics

News
Feed Dots Icon
For You
Search Icon
Search
Blindspot LogoBlindspotLocal