BREAKING NEWS: STACEY JONES UNVEILS STAR-STUDDED NEW ZEALAND KIWI SQUAD FOR PACIFIC CHAMPIONSHIPS 🇳🇿🔥
New Zealand rugby league fans are buzzing with excitement as Head Coach Stacey Jones officially announced his 21-man squad for the upcoming 2025 Pacific Championships, a tournament set to pit the Kiwis against two of their fiercest rivals — Samoa and Tonga — in a high-octane battle for regional supremacy.
This year’s squad reveals a perfect blend of experience, leadership, and youthful firepower, a strategic balance that reflects Jones’ vision for sustained dominance in the Pacific region and beyond. The Kiwis, known for their physical intensity and tactical precision, are heading into the campaign with one clear mission — to reassert New Zealand’s position as the ultimate force in Pacific rugby league.
Jones, who took the reins as head coach following his legendary playing and assistant coaching stints, emphasized unity, pride, and discipline in his selection process. “Every player in this squad has earned their spot through performance, heart, and commitment,” Jones said. “We’re not just here to compete — we’re here to set the standard for international rugby league.”
Among the headline names expected to lead the charge are star halfback Jahrome Hughes, powerhouse prop James Fisher-Harris, and dynamic fullback Joseph Manu, each bringing world-class quality and a wealth of Test experience. The trio will anchor a side designed to deliver both defensive steel and attacking brilliance. Hughes’ tactical kicking game, Fisher-Harris’ unrivalled aggression, and Manu’s game-breaking creativity make them the backbone of a Kiwi outfit ready to unleash chaos on the field.
Adding to the excitement, Jones has also included several rising talents — fresh faces who have lit up the NRL and are now ready to make their mark on the international scene. Their inclusion signals a new generation of Kiwi warriors being groomed for future dominance. Fans will be eager to see how these youngsters handle the intensity of Pacific Test footy, where pride, heritage, and passion often eclipse everything else.
The 2025 Pacific Championships hold special significance this year. Not only does the tournament celebrate the spirit of Polynesian rugby league, but it also serves as a critical warm-up for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. With powerhouse nations like Tonga and Samoa fielding some of the strongest squads in their history, every match promises to be a brutal, emotional showdown filled with bone-rattling tackles, passionate anthems, and unforgettable moments.
Off the field, excitement is building across New Zealand. Tickets have been selling rapidly, and fans are preparing to paint stadiums black and white. Rugby league communities across Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch are already planning watch parties, while former Kiwi legends have voiced their support for Jones’ bold selections.
As the countdown begins, the Kiwis are leaving no stone unturned. Training intensity is reportedly sky-high, and Jones’ message remains simple but powerful: “Play for your jersey. Play for your brothers. Play for New Zealand.”
When the Pacific Championships kick off later this month, expect fireworks, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable displays of Kiwi pride. The Kiwis are ready — and the Pacific is about to feel their power once again. 💥🇳🇿🏉
