An impressive five Wests Tigers players have been named in the extended squads for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup Grand Final.
Australia Jillaroos face the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday 15 November in a much-anticipated final.
For the Jillaroos, Shaylee Bent starts in the second-row with Wests Tigers Captain Kezie Apps on the interchange bench and Sarah Togatuki named in the reserves.
For New Zealand, Raecene McGregor will co-captain the Kiwi Ferns at halfback with Shaniece Monschau in the second-row.
Wests Tigers NRLW Head Coach Craig Sandercock said it was a great testament for each of the players to be selected on international rugby league's biggest stage.
"It’s really exciting for our club to have so many players involved in the World Cup final,'' Sandercock said.
“It’s pleasing to see so many of our players getting rewarded as they were a massive part of our success this season.”
Apps will be chasing her third World Cup title in as many attempts, being part of Australia’s successful 2017 and 2022 campaigns.
Bent is preparing for her second World Cup final, having joined Apps in the Jillaroos victory over New Zealand at Old Trafford in 2022.
For the Kiwi Ferns, McGregor will also make her third World Cup final appearance as she aims for her first title, while Monschau is set to face her first decider.
Sandercock said representing their countries was a special achievement for each player.
As a player, you want to play for your country. It’s an honour for these girls, and we’re proud of them.
Craig Sandercock NRLW Head Coach
Following a series of signings ahead of the 2027 season and the continued development of talent within the squad, Wests Tigers have been represented across Australia, New Zealand, Fiji Bulikula and Fetu Samoa at this year’s World Cup.
The club’s involvement has extended beyond the playing field, with Sandercock leading the PNG Orchids as Head Coach, alongside Assistant Coach Sa Patiole and physiotherapist Belinda Paris.
Wests Tigers NRLW High-Performance Manager Richmond Saliba was also involved in the Lebanese men’s program throughout the tournament.
With players on both sides of the trans-Tasman showdown, at least two will return to the club as World Cup champions.
“I can’t wait to see them play,” Sandercock said.
Kick-off at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium is at 4.10pm local time (5.10pm AEDT), with the men’s final between New Zealand and Australia following.
