Cook Island Rugby League Team Connects with Culture Ahead of World Cup Qualifiers
Queensland Origin star Val Holmes joined the Cook Islands team on a trip to Rarotonga to reconnect with their culture before Sunday’s World Cup qualifier against South Africa. Holmes, recovering from a shoulder injury that ended his NRL season with the Dragons, has committed to representing the Cook Islands if they secure the final spot at RLWC26 at CommBank Stadium.
Holmes, a former Kangaroos back whose mother Lucy was born in the Cook Islands, trained alongside his future international teammates. He supported Hunt and Alex Glenn in preparing the Aitu for their most crucial match in six years.
RLWC26 Qualifier Stakes
The winner of the RLWC26 qualifier will join top teams such as the Kangaroos, Kiwis, England, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Lebanon, and France at the World Cup in Australia and PNG.
Team Strength and Key Players
- Warriors forward Marata Niukore and Rabbitohs prop Davvy Moale will boost the Aitu for the qualifier.
- Both players missed the Pacific Championships campaign in Port Moresby but rejoined the squad in Rarotonga for the training camp.
Val Holmes pledged his allegiance to the Cook Islands if they claim the last berth at RLWC26.
The Cook Islands team's cultural reconnection and strengthened squad reflect their determination ahead of a vital match that could secure their place on the world stage.
Author’s summary: Val Holmes and the Cook Islands rugby league team embrace their heritage as they prepare for a pivotal World Cup qualifier, aiming to secure their spot at RLWC26 with a strengthened squad and renewed focus.