JUST NOW: Stacey Jones Unveils Star-Studded New Zealand Kiwis Squad for Pacific Championships Clash Against Samoa and Tonga
In a major announcement that has set the rugby league world buzzing, New Zealand Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones has officially named a seasoned 21-man squad for the highly anticipated Pacific Championships, with blockbuster clashes against Samoa and Tonga set to kick off later this month.
This campaign promises to be one of the fiercest and most emotionally charged in recent memory, as the Kiwis look to reassert their dominance in the international arena following their impressive showing in the 2023 season. Jones’ selection reflects a perfect blend of experience, leadership, and explosive young talent, ensuring that New Zealand will take the field as one of the top contenders for the Pacific crown.
At the core of the squad are familiar names who have long defined Kiwi rugby league. Joseph Manu, James Fisher-Harris, and Nelson Asofa-Solomona headline the pack, bringing unmatched physicality and skill. Fisher-Harris, the Penrith Panthers enforcer and former Golden Boot winner, is expected to lead the forward line with his trademark aggression and work ethic. Asofa-Solomona, fresh from another powerful NRL campaign with the Melbourne Storm, will add devastating impact through the middle.
The backline is equally stacked. Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, coming off a brilliant season with the New Zealand Warriors, is poised to continue his try-scoring heroics on the international stage. Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad provides versatility and reliability at fullback, while the inclusion of Briton Nikora and Moses Leota ensures balance between defense and attack.
Perhaps the biggest talking point is the inclusion of young stars Griffin Neame and Matthew Timoko, who have both impressed in the NRL with their consistency and fearlessness. Their selection signals Jones’ intent to build depth and secure the Kiwis’ long-term future while maintaining competitiveness in the present.
Jones emphasized unity, pride, and discipline as the cornerstones of this squad. “We’ve picked players who not only represent quality on the field but also character off it,” said the coach during the squad announcement. “The Pacific Championships mean more than just rugby — they’re about representing our culture, our families, and our people. Every player who puts on that black jersey understands what it stands for.”
The Kiwis’ upcoming fixtures against Samoa and Tonga are expected to draw massive crowds and global attention. Samoa, under the leadership of Ben Gardiner, will bring their trademark flair and unpredictability, while Tonga, rejuvenated under Kristian Woolf, boasts an intimidating lineup featuring Addin Fonua-Blake, David Fifita, and Kotoni Staggs.
With tensions high and pride on the line, the Pacific Championships promise fireworks both on and off the field. Fans are already anticipating a showdown of epic proportions — a battle not only for victory but for Pacific supremacy.
For Stacey Jones and his Kiwis, the mission is clear: reclaim the Pacific crown and remind the rugby world that New Zealand remains a powerhouse in the game. With this dynamic 21-man squad, they have every reason to believe that glory is within reach.
Fixture 1: New Zealand vs Samoa – October 19
Fixture 2: New Zealand vs Tonga – October 26
The stage is set. The haka will roar. The Pacific Championships are about to ignite.
