New Zealand’s men and Australia’s women both triumphed at the 2025 Pacific Championships, demonstrating dominance in their respective competitions. The finals, held in Parramatta, Australia, were marked by thrilling comebacks, standout individual performances, and emotional farewells.

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New Zealand Men Rally to Beat Samoa

The New Zealand men’s team overcame a 12-0 deficit to defeat Samoa 36-14, with 30 unanswered points in the second half showcasing their resilience and skill. The victory also marked the farewell of veteran half-back Kieran Foran, who played his 34th and final Test match.

Foran, 35, brought a 16-year international career to a close, playing a key role in orchestrating the comeback alongside stand-off Dylan Brown. Interchange forwards Naufahu Whyte and Erin Clark also made decisive contributions, helping New Zealand secure their second men’s Pacific Championship in three years.

“I wanted it so badly for New Zealand. It has meant so much to me playing for my country,” Foran said.

The Kiwis’ second-half scoring spree included tries from Isaiah Papali’i, Casey McLean, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, and Dylan Brown, stunning a tiring Samoan side. Papali’i scored twice, with Foran and Brown combining to set up the first.

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Australia’s Women Dominate Jillaroos Final

In the women’s final, the Jillaroos retained their title with a commanding 40-8 victory over New Zealand. The win underlined Australia’s status as world champions and dominant force in women’s rugby league, having also won the previous three World Cups.

Julia Robinson starred with two tries, including a spectacular leap to score from a Jesse Southwell crossfield kick, while Olivia Kernick, Keilee Joseph, Jessica Sergis, Tamika Upton, and Ellie Johnston contributed additional scores.

The Jillaroos set the tone early, leading 24-0 after just 33 minutes, and comfortably maintained their advantage despite second-half tries from New Zealand’s Shanice Parker and Tysha Ikenasio.

Australia’s path to victory had also included a 60-0 group-stage win over Samoa and a narrow 10-4 win against New Zealand in Auckland, showing both depth and consistency.

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Kieran Foran Retires and Looks Ahead

Foran announced in July that he would retire from professional rugby at the end of the season, finishing his NRL career after three years with the Gold Coast Titans. He will now return to his first club, the Manly Sea Eagles, as an assistant coach. His final Test match served as a fitting send-off, highlighting both his leadership and skill.

“It has meant so much to me playing for my country,” Foran reflected after the match.

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Recap of Pacific Championships Success

• New Zealand Men: 36-14 victory over Samoa; second title in three years
• Australia Women: 40-8 victory over New Zealand; retained title; continued dominance in women’s rugby league
• Standout Players: Kieran Foran, Dylan Brown, Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad (NZ men); Julia Robinson, Olivia Kernick, Keilee Joseph (Australia women)

The tournament reinforced New Zealand’s strength in men’s rugby league and Australia’s unassailable position in the women’s game. Both teams now set their sights on future international competitions and World Cup preparations.