New Zealand Kiwis 2025 Squad Preview – Kiwis to start favourites
The Kiwis head into the 2025 Pacific Champs as favorites, backed by a squad filled with NRL standouts, led by James Fisher-Harris. Although the absence of Jahrome Hughes and Kodi Nikorima poses challenges in the halves, the team welcomes back veteran Kieran Foran alongside Dylan Brown. Expect depth and versatility from players like Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Keano Kini. Dominance in the forward section is anticipated with stars like Tapine and Papali’i. With matches kicking off against Samoa and concluding against Tonga, NZ faces dynamic competition from rapidly improving Pacific nations.
- Kiwis favored for 2025 Pacific Champs led by James Fisher-Harris.
- Veteran Kieran Foran and Dylan Brown fill gaps left by key players.
- Pacific nations closing gap; excitement builds for key matchups.
New Zealand Squad Reactions
Kiwis 2025 Squad Analysis
The Kiwis enter the 2025 Pacific Champs as tournament favourites with James Fisher-Harris leading a squad stacked with NRL talent.
However, the loss of Jahrome Hughes and Kodi Nikorima leaves a gap in the halves, prompting the recall of veteran Kieran Foran alongside Dylan Brown.
Depth and utility options with Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad and Keano Kini filling multiple roles will be important for the Kiwis. In the forwards, stars like Tapine, Papali’i, Sorensen, and breakout prop Xavier Willison ensure the Kiwis will dominate up front.
New Zealand open their campaign against Samoa on October 19 and close versus Tonga at Eden Park.
New Zealand are rightful favourites, but warned, anything can happen now as the Pacific nations are closing the gap fast.
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