Wheelaroos to play USA in Las Vegas

The Australian Wheelaroos are set to make history by playing a three Test series against the United States in Las Vegas ahead of the NRL's opening round fixture at Allegiant Stadium in March.

The Wheelaroos will face the USA for the first time in Wheelchair Rugby League on Wednesday, February 26. A second Test will be played on the same day, with the two teams to meet for a third time on Friday, March 1.

The international fixtures will precede the NRL’s double header in which Manly play South Sydney and Sydney Roosters face Brisbane on March 2 at Allegiant Stadium.

Hosted by USA Wheelchair Rugby League, the Wheelaroos will also be involved in clinics and other game development activities in Las Vegas.

“We are thrilled with the invitation to meet the USA on home soil," Wheelchair Rugby League Australia Chair Martin Meredith said. 

"While we did not directly compete in the Rugby League World Cup, the tournament allowed us to get to know each other and collaborate on ways to build the sport globally.

“We are thrilled to be invited to the USA to showcase the Wheelaroos’ unique style of Wheelchair Rugby League.”

The Wheelaroos qualified for the semi-finals of the World Cup in England last year and were beaten by France, while the USA - playing in the tournament for the first time - enjoyed a win against Scotland.

“Australia is one of the leading nations in Wheelchair Rugby League and we know that we will have a tough three match international series," USA coach Geoff Mason said. 

"As a developing nation in the game, the USA Wheelchair Rugby League Team will have a strong test, but I am confident that we will play hard and gain much experience in playing such a strong opponent.”

The Wheelaroos currently hold the fourth spot in the IRL World Rankings and have automatically qualified for the 2026 World Cup, while the USA team ranks eighth.

USA team manager Jasmine Townsend welcomed the opportunity to play Australia in an international fixture in Las Vegas.

“We are looking forward to meeting up with the Aussie Team in Las Vegas," Townsend said. "We appreciate their willingness to travel so far to help us establish a nationwide Wheelchair Rugby League program.

"It should be a great series of matches, and we will likely learn a great deal from such an experienced opponent.”