Valentine Holmes confirms fitness for Cook Islands World Cup campaign
Zero Tackle NRL • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 9, 2026, 6:14 AM
Last updated Sep 9, 2026
St George Illawarra Dragons centre Valentine Holmes is expected to be available for the Cook Islands Aitu in the upcoming World Cup tournament. Holmes sustained a syndesmosis injury during the Dragons' Round 27 match against Parramatta but reports indicate he will recover in time for international play. Teammate KL Iro confirmed the status of Holmes, who missed the 2025 Pacific Championships due to a shoulder injury. The Cook Islands Aitu are set to open their World Cup schedule against Fiji in Newcastle on October 18. The team faces a challenging path in the pool stages with additional matches scheduled against Australia and New Zealand.
- •Valentine Holmes intends to play for the Cook Islands despite a recent syndesmosis injury.
- •The Cook Islands face Fiji on October 18 in Newcastle to open the tournament.
- •Pool matches include games against Australia and New Zealand.
- •The squad features additional players including Brendan Piakura, Davvy Moale, Esan Marsters, and Makahesi Makatoa.
- 6:14 AMZero Tackle NRL — Major Cook Islands update delivers huge World Cup boost
"One of the nation’s strongest players is set to overcome injury for the international tournament.
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