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 as they reengaged 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 pledged his allegiance to the Cook Islands if they secure the final spot at RLWC26, which will be held at CommBank Stadium.
The former Kangaroos back, whose mother Lucy was born in the Cook Islands, trained alongside his future international teammates. He helped Hunt and Alex Glenn prepare the Aitu for their most crucial match in six years.
RLWC26 Qualifier Stakes
The winner of the qualifier will join the Kangaroos, Kiwis, England, Samoa, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, Fiji, Lebanon, and France in the World Cup hosted by Australia and Papua New Guinea.
Team Boosts
- Warriors forward Marata Niukore
- Rabbitohs prop Davvy Moale
Both players missed the Pacific Championships campaign in Port Moresby but joined the squad for the training camp in Rarotonga ahead of the qualifier.
"He helped Hunt and Alex Glenn prepare the Aitu for their most important match in six years."
Author's summary: Val Holmes and the Cook Islands rugby league team embrace their heritage as they prepare for a decisive World Cup qualifier, aiming to secure their place at RLWC26.
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