Over the past week, significant developments have unfolded in the world of rugby, spanning both union and league codes.
Rugby League World Cup 2026
The Rugby League World Cup commenced on October 15, 2026, with Australia edging out New Zealand 24-22 in a thrilling opening match at Sydney Football Stadium. Jack Bostock made an impressive debut, scoring a hat-trick to secure the win for the Kangaroos. However, the match was marred by an injury to New Zealand’s Kalyn Ponga, who suffered a suspected broken arm. (abc.net.au)
In other opening fixtures, Samoa dominated France with a 78-4 victory on October 16, while Papua New Guinea triumphed over Lebanon 42-18 on October 17. England’s women’s team also showcased their prowess, defeating Wales 70-6 on October 17. (skysports.com)
Rugby Union
The European Rugby Champions Cup 2026/27 kicked off with Bordeaux Bègles defending their title against Gloucester. Notable fixtures included Leinster’s visit to Clermont and Toulouse facing Exeter. Connacht returned to the top-tier competition against Saracens, and La Rochelle hosted the Johannesburg Lions in a poignant match following the tragic death of Lions’ player Hyron Andrews. (techradar.com)
In the United Rugby Championship, Montpellier delivered a dominant performance against Bath, securing a 32-14 victory. The match was highlighted by Montpellier’s physicality and strategic play, leaving Bath reeling from the defeat. (theguardian.com)
International Test Matches
In the Bledisloe Cup series, New Zealand’s All Blacks clinched the trophy with a decisive 50-19 win over Australia in the first Test. The second Test, held on October 17 at Sydney’s Accor Stadium, saw New Zealand making several changes to their lineup, including the inclusion of George Bower, Fabian Holland, and Josh Moorby. Australia, aiming to end their drought in the competition, also made key team changes, including fly-half Declan Meredith and ex-All Black Aidan Ross. (whathifi.com)
These events underscore the dynamic and competitive nature of rugby, with teams across the globe vying for supremacy in their respective tournaments.
Highlights:
- How to watch European Rugby Champions Cup 2026/27: Free streams & TV channels, Published on Friday, October 16
- How to watch England vs Tonga for FREE: Live Streams, Published on Friday, October 16
- How to watch Samoa vs France for FREE: Live streams for Rugby League World Cup 2026 game, Published on Thursday, October 15
