'Best in the world': New Zealand pack eye statement victory

New Zealand forward Erin Clark has declared the Kiwis are out to prove they have the world's best pack when they take on Australia in a blockbuster IRL Rugby League World Cup opener. 

Coach Stacey Jones has steadily built up the nation's forward stocks over the past few years and he will roll out an imposing pack at Allianz Stadium on Thursday night. 

Led up front by James Fisher-Harris, Naufahu Whyte, Joseph Tapine, Moses Leota and Clark, the Kiwis have emerged as the best pack in international rugby league. 

The development comes on the back of a disappointing 2024 Pacific Championships campaign, with Clark one of multiple youngsters to make his Test debut throughout that tournament.

New Zealand rebounded to take out last year's Pacific Championships and the Kiwis are out to make a statement in front of an expected record crowd on Thursday night. 

"The way the '24 campaign went, we weren't happy," Clark told NRL.com. "We had a point to prove coming into '25 and '26. 

"We see ourselves as the best in the world and we've got to make sure we show that with our game in the World Cup.

"We know our strengths. Our strength is our go forward, our momentum and making sure we lay the platform for Jahrome [Hughes], Kalyn [Ponga], Keano [Kini] and all our backs to do their magic."

Clark's comments set the tone for a fiery affair at Allianz Stadium as the Kiwis prepare to take on a Kangaroos pack led by skipper Isaah Yeo. 

Pat Carrigan and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui are set to start in the front row, with Cam Murray and Reuben Cotter to provide versatility off the bench.

Jones will also require his players to fill a variety of roles after prioritising flexibility in his squad. 

Jeremy Marshall-King is the only specialist hooker in the side, with Kodi Nikorima likely to act as his backup throughout the tournament. 

Clark wore the No.9 jumper during his stint at the Titans before joining the Warriors and said he's ready to step up if called upon. 

"I'll play anywhere," Clark said. "I'll do anything for this jersey. Whether I'm playing or not playing, just to be in this environment is special. If I have to play nine, I'll play nine, wherever you put me I'll still give 100%. 

"We can all pass the ball, we can all run. The good thing about this pack is we're a hybrid pack. Everyone can pass, everyone can run which makes it so exciting."

While Fisher-Harris, Tapine and Leota all played at the 2022 World Cup, Whyte joins Clark as a member of the new brigade making an impact for the Kiwis. 

The Rooster also made his Test debut in 2024 and has used that experience to develop into one of the best props in the game.

Whyte was named alongside Fisher-Harris in the Dally M Team of the Year and the New Zealand skipper backed his young teammate to dominate throughout the World Cup. 

"Three years ago I met him when he was in Kiwis camp," Fisher-Harris said. "He was 18th man all three games. Since then he's come on in leaps and bounds. 

"He was outstanding this season, Dally M Prop of the Year and then finished it off with a ring for the Roosters. His leadership has gone from strength to strength, he's just getting better and better and I'm stoked to have him in the squad."

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