Four NSW Wheelchair Rugby League representatives have been named in the Australian team for an historic two-Test series against New Zealand in November.
The trio of Cory Cannane, Brad Grove and Diab Karim (pictured above) were part of the Wheelaroos side which made the World Cup semi-finals in 2022, while Toby Popple was part of the NSW side that went down 42-36 to Queensland in July’s Wheelchair State Challenge in Brisbane.
The four men will now be part of the first Test series held between the trans-Tasman neighbours on 1 November and 4 November in Auckland.
The games will coincide with the 2024 Pacific Championships Rugby League match between the Kiwis and Tonga (2 November) in the same city.
Chair of Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Martin Meredith said the Tests were a significant milestone for the sport.
"This inaugural Test series between Australia and New Zealand is a monumental step forward for Wheelchair Rugby League in the Pacific,” he said.
“It’s not just about the competition – it’s about strengthening ties across nations and fostering the growth of Wheelchair Rugby League in the Southern Hemisphere."
Wheelchair Rugby League became hugely popular at the 2022 World Cup due to its speed, skill and high contact. It is one of the most inclusive sports since a team of five on court at any time can have up to two able-bodied players.
The game is played over two 40-minute halves, with the same points scoring as the running game. The “field of play” is across three indoor basketball courts.
Rules are similar. Players must pass backwards, and possession changes after six tackles. A “tackle” is made by ripping off the Velcro shoulder tag of an opposition player, similar to Tag football.
Kicks downfield, conversions, penalties and field goals are hand-punted. A play-the-ball is made by tapping the football on the ground before passing.
The 2024 Wheelaroos squad to face New Zealand (in alphabetical order) is: Daniel Anstey (QLD), Peter Arbuckle (QLD), Cory Cannane (NSW), Brad Grove (NSW), Diab Karim (NSW), Bayley McKenna (QLD), Toby Popple (NSW), Zac Schumacher (QLD). Coach: Brett Clark (NSW)
