Kiwi Ferns captain finalises future beyond World Cup

Kiwi Ferns captain Georgia Hale will lead New Zealand into the World Cup with her long term- future confirmed after inking a fresh two-year extension with the Titans.

A foundation Warriors and Titans NRLW player, the 30-year-old has developed into an instrumental leader for her club and country.

A member of the Warriors inaugural squad in 2018, Hale joined the Titans in 2021 and has further become one of the most respected figures in the competition; leading from the front with incredible performances and unwavering commitment to her teammates.

A Golden Boot winner in 2023 as the Women's International Rugby League player of the year, Hale has played 23 Tests for the Kiwi Ferns and last year notched her 50th NRLW appearance during the finals.

Titans coach Karyn Murphy said the New Zealand forward has been instrumental in shaping the club’s NRLW program both on and off the field, setting the standard with her professionalism, work ethic and passion for the jersey.

"Georgia is the heart and soul of our team," Murphy said.

"Her leadership, experience and care for her teammates are second to none, and she sets the standard every single day.

"She’s not only a world-class player, but an incredible role model who drives the culture of our program.

"She embodies everything we stand for as a club and to have her commit long-term is a huge win for not just our team but for our entire community."

Hale was 19 years old when she first travelled to Australia with the Kiwi Ferns in 2014 and the players had to pay half of the costs for the trip.

She is now set to captain New Zealand at RLWC2026, as the Kiwi Ferns seek to regain the trophy they held from the inaugural Women's World Cup in 2000 until Murphy led the Jillaroos to victory against their trans-Tasman rivals for the first time in the 2013 final.  

The Kiwi Ferns draw for RLWC2026 is:

• October 18 v Fiji at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle
• October 25 v France at One NZ Stadium, Christchurch 
• October 31 v PNG at Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast

The 2017 World Cup and the introduction of the NRLW in 2018 were game changers, and Hale has evolved from a playmaker to the protype lock at the Titans.

"From the moment I arrived, this club has felt like home," Hale said.

"We’ve built something really special here and I’m excited to continue that journey.

"There’s a strong connection between the players, staff and community and I’m proud to lead this group as we continue to grow and chase history together, winning that first premiership for the Gold Coast."