Australia vs New Zealand: Kangaroos Player Ratings as Jack Bostock Earns Perfect 10

Australia survived a huge scare to defeat New Zealand 24–22 in a thrilling opening match of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, with Jack Bostock delivering a performance for the ages.

The Dolphins winger scored a hat-trick on his Kangaroos debut, including the match-winning try in the 76th minute, to rescue Australia after the Kiwis threatened to pull off a major upset.

While Bostock was the undeniable star, there were mixed performances across the Australian side, with some experienced players struggling to make their mark and Mitchell Moses' injury adding to the concerns.

Here are my Kangaroos player ratings from the dramatic victory.

Reece Walsh — 6.5/10

Walsh had his moments in attack and produced a spectacular try to keep Australia in the contest late in the game. However, his missed conversion after that effort proved costly, leaving the Kangaroos needing another score to get in front. A mixed performance, but he still provided moments of genuine brilliance. A great try, but a soft knock on, and gifted NZ an easy penalty goal.

Jack Bostock — 10/10**

What a debut! Bostock was Australia's best player by a considerable margin, scoring three tries and delivering the match-winner in the 76th minute. His opening intercept try showcased his speed and awareness, while his ability to finish under pressure was outstanding. His assist for Walsh as well was brilliant. You could hardly ask for more from a debutant. Bostock is that guy.

Latrell Mitchell — 7/10

Mitchell brought plenty of physicality and attacking intent to the centres. Although he didn't dominate the contest, he contributed to an Australian backline that had to work hard against a dangerous New Zealand defensive line. A solid performance without being spectacular, I liked his attempts to strip, but would love to see him run it straight close to line more frequently.

Kotoni Staggs — 2/10

A difficult night for Staggs, who struggled to make the desired impact and left Australia under pressure after being sin-binned. Against an opponent as dangerous as New Zealand, discipline is crucial, and the Kangaroos could ill afford to lose a player for 10 minutes. A performance he'll want to put behind him quickly. Bradman Best surely gets the nod for game two.

Tom Trbojevic — 3/10

It was a frustrating outing for Trbojevic, who struggled to influence the game consistently from the wing. Australia needed more from its experienced outside backs, particularly during periods when New Zealand threatened to take control. He was very lucky with the offside, it was a horrendous error. He'll be looking for a much stronger showing next time out.

Cameron Munster — 5.5/10

Munster had a challenging night as Australia battled to establish consistent attacking rhythm. There were flashes of his usual creativity, but the Kangaroos struggled to turn possession into sustained pressure at crucial moments. An average performance, with plenty of room for improvement.

Mitchell Moses — 5/10

Moses' night was cut short by an apparent calf injury, making it difficult to give him a fair assessment. Before his departure, Australia needed more control and attacking direction from its halves. The injury was the biggest concern, with the Kangaroos now waiting to learn whether their first-choice halfback will be available for the next match.

Patrick Carrigan — 6/10

Carrigan worked hard through the middle and brought his usual intensity to the contest. Australia needed its forwards to match New Zealand's physical approach, and Carrigan contributed to that battle. Not his most dominant performance, but he did his job.

Harry Grant — 6/10

Grant provided energy around the ruck and worked to get Australia's attack moving. The Kangaroos weren't always able to build the momentum they wanted, but Grant remained an important link between the forwards and the halves. A respectable performance in a difficult Test, but failed to get up to his usual tricks out of dummy half.

Tino Fa'asuamaleaui — 6.5/10

Fa'asuamaleaui brought plenty of size and aggression to the middle, helping Australia compete with a powerful New Zealand pack. The Titans captain was solid without completely taking over the contest. He'll need to continue leading from the front as the tournament progresses.

Liam Martin — 7/10

Martin brought the intensity expected of him, competing hard on both sides of the ball. His work rate and physical approach helped Australia stay in the contest during difficult periods. A strong effort from the Panthers forward, who rarely takes a backward step.

Isaah Yeo — 8/10

The Australian captain was one of the Kangaroos' most dependable performers. Yeo worked tirelessly through the middle, helped organise the defensive line and provided the composure Australia needed during a chaotic contest. While the team struggled for consistency, his leadership and work rate stood out among all the forwards.

Tom Dearden — 5/10

Dearden had to step into the contest after Moses was unable to continue, putting extra responsibility on the Cowboys playmaker. He helped Australia navigate a difficult second half, but the attack never completely settled. A challenging situation for a player asked to adjust on the fly.

Cameron Murray — 7/10

Murray provided a strong contribution from the interchange, bringing energy and mobility through the middle. His ability to maintain the intensity when the starting forwards needed support was important in a tight contest. A very solid performance.

Reuben Cotter — 5/10

Cotter brought his usual work rate and determination, but he wasn't able to make a major impact on the match. Australia needed a consistent effort from its middle rotation against a powerful New Zealand pack, and Cotter contributed without standing out.

Keaon Koloamatangi — 5/10

Koloamatangi had a steady outing without producing a defining moment. The South Sydney forward helped Australia maintain its presence through the middle, but there is more he can offer as the tournament progresses. An adequate performance in a hard-fought Test.

Jack Bostock was the clear standout, earning a perfect 10/10 after producing one of the most memorable debut performances in recent Kangaroos history.

His hat-trick, capped by the match-winning try, ensured Australia opened its World Cup campaign with a victory despite being pushed to the limit by New Zealand.

Yeo and Martin were among the other stronger performers, while Staggs and Trbojevic had nights to forget. Moses' injury also leaves Australia with an important question to answer before its next fixture.

The Kangaroos got the result, but there is plenty for Kevin Walters to work on.

For now, though, Australia can celebrate a dramatic win and the emergence of a new international star in Jack Bostock.