The Cook Islands rugby league team, known as the Aitu, are not content merely with qualifying for the Rugby League World Cup 2026; they have set their sights on becoming “giant killers” in the tournament. Under the guidance of coach Karmichael Hunt, the team secured their place at the World Cup by dominating South Africa with a score of 58-6 during the Southern Hemisphere qualifier at CommBank Stadium. Hunt emphasizes their ambition to not just participate, but to make a significant impact in the competition.
The addition of experienced players such as Valentine Holmes, who has 21 Tests with Australia, is expected to bolster the squad, along with the potential inclusion of more high-profile players now that the Aitu has confirmed their place. “This is what we wanted to do for our country,” Hunt stated, highlighting the team’s commitment to represent their nation with pride. He expressed hope that they can “take some scalps in the World Cup.”
The Cook Islands will compete against eight other teams, including rugby league powerhouses like Australia and England, at the World Cup scheduled for October and November next year in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
Reconnecting with their cultural heritage has been a priority for the team, with players including Holmes participating in a 10-day camp in Rarotonga leading up to their qualifying match. Rabbitohs prop Davvy Moale reflected on the positive impact of their time in the Cook Islands: “The camp was the best I have ever come into… it definitely helped everyone connect,” he noted.
As the squad prepares, co-captain Marata Niukore and centre Reuben Rennie made a symbolic gesture by adding the Cook Islands name to the list of competing nations outside the stadium, receiving a warm reception from supporters wanting to congratulate them.
Brendan Piakura, a Broncos premiership-winning player excited for his second World Cup, praised Holmes’ addition to the team, believing it elevates their readiness for the tournament. “You can’t put a price on it,” Hunt said of Holmes’ presence, affirming the boost in confidence it brings to the players, many of whom have backgrounds in the NSW and Queensland Cup competitions.
This positive momentum builds on the appeals from players like KL Iro, who has called for other NRL stars of Cook Islands heritage to join the effort, noting the potential for greater sponsorship and support if the team performs well at the World Cup. This collaboration aims to emulate the success seen by Pacific nations like Tonga and Samoa in recent years. With a heart for the game and a commitment to honor their heritage, the Cook Islands Aitu rugby league team is looking forward to making their mark on the world stage.