Rugby League World Cup 2026: James Graham fires up after blowout scorelines, Australia Kangaroos halfback verdict, Kurt Donoghoe man of the match

Former England prop James Graham has criticized negative debates surrounding blowout scorelines at the Rugby League World Cup. Graham argued that lopsided margins are normal across all major international sporting tournaments, defending the inclusion and development of emerging nations. Meanwhile, Australia prepares for its final group stage match against the Cook Islands, with coach Kevin Walters balancing a selection battle at halfback between Tom Dearden and Sam Walker.

In other tournament developments, Kurt Donoghoe's strong performances in the halves for Fiji have sparked discussion over his future role under Kristian Woolf at the Dolphins. Additionally, former international James Roby warned England not to panic or force points against Papua New Guinea as they chase a vital victory to keep their semi-final hopes alive.