Kiwis v Cook Islands: Live updates from the Rugby League World Cup clash in Christchurch

Follow the action as the Kiwis and Cook Islands clash in Christchurch.The brilliant performance of Kalyn Ponga in his Kiwis debut and the cruel injury that cut it short were two of the main talking points of the first week of the Rugby League World Cup. Senior Herald league writer Michael Burgess analyses the big questions about his injury, what it means for the squad and the possibility of a miracle return. How long will the Kiwis give Kalyn Ponga to recover?According to team officials, it remains a day-by-day proposition. Because of his extraordinary ability, which was shown again in his virtuoso display in the first match against Australia, the Kiwis are prepared to give him as much time as possible. It’s hard to imagine he could be involved in the tournament again, but coach Stacey Jones has said several times they are not ruling it out. Ultimately, it will come down to the healing process and Ponga’s state of mind and mental readiness. What would be the latest deadline?The World Cup final will be staged on Sunday, November 15. That date is 31 days from Ponga’s surgery, which took place in Sydney on Friday, October 16. However, Ponga would need to be ready to train earlier in that week – at least for the light practice runs – if the Kiwis make the decider.What about the Newcastle Knights?Ponga is their highest-paid player, their captain and their spiritual leader. The New Zealand Rugby League is in frequent communication with the NRL club and has emphasised it will be respectful to the club over any decisions.Are there any precedents for such a quick recovery?Yes, though it is rare. Earlier this season, Cronulla hooker Blayke Brailey returned to play in State of Origin three weeks after breaking his forearm in a club match. However, that timeframe was regarded as freakish and well beyond the usual. Kalyn Ponga scores for the Knights in the NRL grand final. Photo / Brad RobertsHow much backline cover do the Kiwis have?There are good options at fullback. Keano Kini starred in last season’s Pacific Championship campaign for the Kiwis while Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad was in the No 1 jersey when New Zealand enjoyed their famous 30-0 win over the Kangaroos in Hamilton in 2023.However, Ponga’s current unavailability means they have nine backs in the squad, though there is some versatility as second rower Briton Nikora could cover centre at a pinch, for example.Which players are next in line to be called up?The New Zealand Rugby League declined to name shadow players during the squad announcement, unlike Australia, who declared Thomas Jenkins, Hamish Stewart and Ethan Strange were in reserve in case of injury (Strange has already been called up). Keano Kini in action for the Kiwis against the Kangaroos. Photo / PhotosportHooker Phoenix Crossland is training with the team but won’t be eligible until the semi-final stage because of the four-match ban arising from the NRL preliminary final. He can only be called in if there is a further injury, or if Ponga officially withdraws. Wayde Egan has also been seen training with the squad this week in Christchurch. Melbourne Storm centre and winger Moses Leo is also in camp as backline cover. Does Kalyn Ponga deserve this special treatment?Yes. He has been in the form of his life in 2026 for Newcastle, especially during the finals series, and is a uniquely talented player. Ponga has been waiting years for the chance to wear the black and white V – even turning down selection with the Kangaroos on multiple occasions – and proved his commitment to the Kiwis’ cause in the tournament opener, when he played on for almost 20 minutes before succumbing to the pain of his injury.Michael Burgess has been a Sports Journalist for the New Zealand Herald since 2005, covering the Olympics, Fifa World Cups, and America’s Cup campaigns. He is a co-host of the Big League podcast.