Jumping Jack! Bostock Debut Hattrick Headlines Kangaroos World Cup Win Over NZ

Jack Bostock announced himself as an international superstar, scoring a stunning hat-trick as Australia survived a major scare to defeat New Zealand 24–22 in a thrilling opening match of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

The Dolphins winger delivered a performance to remember at Allianz Stadium, scoring three tries on his Kangaroos debut, including the decisive four-pointer in the 76th minute to rescue Australia from the brink of defeat.

However, the defending champions' dramatic victory came at a potential cost, with Mitchell Moses suffering a calf injury and New Zealand fullback Kalyn Ponga also leaving the field with a suspected broken arm.

When Australia needed someone to step up, Bostock delivered.

The 23-year-old opened his international account in spectacular fashion, intercepting a Jahrome Hughes pass before racing approximately 90 metres to score.

It was a moment that showcased his speed and awareness, punishing New Zealand for a costly mistake and giving Australia a much-needed spark.

But Bostock was only getting started. The winger continued to trouble the Kiwis throughout the contest, completing his hat-trick with the most important try of the night.

With Australia trailing 22–20 and time running out, Bostock crossed for the match-winning try in the 76th minute, completing a remarkable debut and sending the home crowd into celebration.

Three tries on debut against one of Australia's biggest rivals, with the match on the line; it doesn't get much better than that.

Bostock has already shown his potential at NRL level with the Dolphins, but this performance put him firmly on the international stage.

The winger was not simply making up the numbers in the Australian backline. He proved he could deliver in the biggest moments, and his performance could prove crucial as the Kangaroos attempt to defend their World Cup crown.

While Australia celebrated a dramatic win, Mitchell Moses' injury will be a major concern for coach Kevin Walters.

The Parramatta Eels halfback appeared to suffer a calf injury during the first half and was unable to continue after the break.

Moses had won the race to Australia's No.7 jersey ahead of Sam Walker, partnering Cameron Munster in the halves for the tournament opener.

His early exit forced Australia to adjust its plans, with Tom Dearden providing another option in the playmaking positions.

The Kangaroos have considerable depth in the halves, but Moses' experience, kicking game and ability to organise the attack make him an important member of the squad.

With the World Cup still in its early stages, Australia will be desperate to establish the extent of the injury before making any decisions about its next team.

No definitive timeline for Moses' return was immediately available following the match.

New Zealand also finished the contest with an injury worry, as Kalyn Ponga left the field late in the second half after appearing to struggle with an arm injury.

The Newcastle Knights superstar had been one of the Kiwis' most dangerous players, producing moments of brilliance in his first appearance for New Zealand.

Ponga scored a crucial try during the second half, demonstrating the speed and footwork that have made him one of the NRL's most exciting attacking players.

His influence was clear throughout the match, and losing him during the closing stages was a concern for coach Stacey Jones.

New Zealand will be hoping the injury is not serious, particularly after pushing the defending champions to the final moments of a gripping contest.

As with Moses, the full extent of Ponga's injury remained unclear immediately after the game.

The opening match delivered everything expected of a trans-Tasman showdown.

New Zealand started strongly and challenged Australia physically, while the Kangaroos were forced to overcome periods of pressure and costly errors.

The sides went into half-time locked at 10–10, setting up a tense second half.

The Kiwis threatened to take control after the break, with Ponga among those making a significant impact in attack. Australia, however, refused to go away, with Bostock continuing to provide a threat on the wing.

Reece Walsh also produced a spectacular try to keep the Kangaroos within reach, but the contest remained in the balance as the clock ticked down.

At 22–20, Australia needed a moment of brilliance. Bostock provided it.

His third try gave the Kangaroos a 24–22 lead in the 76th minute, and Australia held on to secure a crucial opening victory.

It was a result that demonstrated the champions' resilience, even if there will be plenty for Walters to review before their next match.

Australia will take confidence from finding a way to win a match that could easily have slipped away.

However, Moses' calf injury is an immediate concern, while Walters will need to assess the squad's fitness after an intense opening encounter.

The potential absence of Moses would put greater responsibility on Munster and Dearden, while Bostock's performance gives the coaching staff plenty of reason to retain faith in the young winger.

New Zealand, meanwhile, can take plenty of positives from pushing Australia to the limit and will be determined to bounce back.

For Australia, the result is what matters most. The Kangaroos have opened their World Cup campaign with a win, and Bostock has emerged as one of the early stories of the tournament.

A hat-trick on debut, capped by the match-winner in the final minutes, is the sort of performance that can define a player's international career.

Australia escaped with the points, but one thing is already clear: Jack Bostock has arrived on the world stage.