Jahrome Hughes takes 2022 regret into World Cup return
The New Zealand halfback is back in camp after injury absences, with the Kiwis set to face Australia in their tournament opener.
Jahrome Hughes says he still blames himself for New Zealand’s 16-14 defeat by Australia in the 2022 Rugby League World Cup semi-final as he prepares for another tournament with the Kiwis.
Australia will again be the opposition in New Zealand’s opening match. Hughes said the disappointment of that narrow loss remained a source of motivation four years later.
The 31-year-old has not represented New Zealand since helping the team beat Australia 30-0 at the 2023 Pacific Championships. A neck injury ruled him out of the 2024 national squad, while shoulder surgery prevented him from playing in the Kiwis’ successful 2025 Pacific Championships campaign.
Hughes, who won the 2024 Dally M medal while playing for Melbourne, said returning to camp had brought back his childhood excitement about representing New Zealand. The injury absences had reinforced how much the jersey meant to him.
New Zealand last won the World Cup 18 years ago, with Australia taking the title at the three subsequent tournaments. Hughes said he hoped a Kiwis victory could inspire young supporters, and credited the Warriors with helping attract new fans to rugby league in New Zealand.
