Christchurch World Cup ticket sales boost bid for 20th NRL team

High ticket demand for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup double-header at ONE NZ Stadium has provided momentum for the Southern Orcas' bid to become the 20th NRL team. The venue, which opened in March, is nearing a sell-out for the October 25 matches featuring the New Zealand Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns. Representatives from the Southern Orcas have held discussions with NRL officials regarding a potential 2029 entry. The bid faces competition from a separate group seeking to establish a fifth Brisbane-based team. Meanwhile, the New Zealand Kiwis roster for the tournament has received a boost following the inclusion of Kalyn Ponga, who remains eligible for the Queensland Maroons in the State of Origin series. The tournament begins October 15 with Australia facing New Zealand at Allianz Stadium.

• 12:35 AMZero Tackle NRL — World Cup sell-out looms as Christchurch’s push for NRL’s 20th team grows