Gagai seeks World Cup title with New Zealand after Australia success
The former Kangaroos winner will face Australia in Brisbane, while Kiwi Ferns prop Shannon Mato is also chasing a title with a second country.
Dane Gagai has the chance to become a World Cup winner for two countries when New Zealand take on Australia at Suncorp Stadium in Brisbane. The centre was part of the Kangaroos’ title-winning side in 2017.
Gagai is nearing his 36th birthday after 16 seasons in the NRL and 23 appearances for Queensland in State of Origin. New Zealand are seeking their first World Cup title since 2008.
Coach Stacey Jones said Gagai’s experience had been important to the squad and that the centre was excited to represent his mother’s family through New Zealand.
Joseph Tapine praised Gagai’s response to pressure. He said Gagai and fullback Kalyn Ponga had strengthened the team, while Jamayne Isaako’s goal-kicking complemented a forward pack he already rated highly.
The teams’ opening World Cup meeting ended in a 24-22 victory for Australia. Jones said New Zealand had paid for costly moments, but both sides had improved since that match.
Kiwi Ferns prop Shannon Mato also has an opportunity to win the tournament for a second nation, having claimed the previous women’s World Cup with Australia.
