Australia Crush New Zealand 34-10 to Claim Record Fourth Consecutive Women's Rugby League World Cup

Posted : 15 November 2026

Australia's Jillaroos delivered a commanding performance to defeat New Zealand 34-10 in the 2026 Women's Rugby League World Cup final, securing their fourth consecutive championship in front of their home supporters in Brisbane.

The defending champions dominated the contest from the opening minutes, scoring six tries to New Zealand's two. Their impressive first-half display effectively settled the final within 35 minutes, leaving the Kiwi Ferns with an almost impossible task after the break.

Jaime Chapman was the standout performer, scoring three tries to finish the tournament as its leading try-scorer with 13 touchdowns. Her performance demonstrated her strength, speed and ability to break through defensive challenges.

Chapman opened the scoring just 125 seconds into the match, overpowering three New Zealand defenders on the left wing. She later produced an acrobatic finish for her second try before completing her hat-trick with an outstanding 60-metre run that left several defenders trailing behind.

Shaylee Bent also contributed to Australia's early dominance, cutting through the New Zealand defence to score the second try. Jess Sergis added another after running almost the length of the field, while Chapman's third score extended the hosts' advantage.

New Zealand briefly responded through Shannon Mato, who crossed the try line after Australia conceded consecutive penalties. However, the Jillaroos quickly regained control when Tamika Upton finished a well-worked attacking move following excellent handling down the right wing.

Australia's first-half scoring burst produced 24 unanswered points before New Zealand managed to respond. Jesse Southwell also played an important role, successfully converting five of Australia's six tries.

The Jillaroos entered the interval with a commanding 34-6 advantage, putting them on course to challenge New Zealand's record 58-0 victory in the 2003 World Cup final.

However, the second half developed differently as both teams struggled to create clear scoring opportunities. Australia's attacking intensity dropped, while New Zealand improved defensively and prevented the champions from adding to their tally.

The Kiwi Ferns also struggled with handling errors and incomplete attacking sets, limiting their ability to mount a serious comeback. Mackenzie Wiki eventually crossed for a consolation try in the 70th minute, with Chantay Kiria-Ratu adding the conversion to make the final score 34-10.

Chapman's individual contribution extended beyond her three tries. She recorded 151 metres, three line breaks and seven tackle breaks, alongside an important try-saving defensive effort.

The victory extended Australia's unbeaten World Cup run to 16 matches, dating back to July 2013. The Jillaroos also completed the tournament with an impressive 306 points scored and just 30 conceded.

Head coach Jess Skinner's team selection proved effective, particularly her decision to start Southwell ahead of Jocelyn Kelleher at stand-off.

The championship further strengthened Australia's position as the dominant force in women's rugby league. Their fourth consecutive title represents another significant achievement for a team that has consistently maintained its superiority on the international stage.

Australia Crush New Zealand 34-10 to Claim Record Fourth Consecutive Women's Rugby League World Cup

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