New Zealand down spirited Tonga to reach Rugby League World Cup final

New Zealand secured their place in the Rugby League World Cup final with a 34-10 semi-final victory over Tonga in Newcastle. After holding a narrow two-point lead at half-time, the Kiwis dominated the second half, scoring 22 unanswered points despite difficult weather conditions. Stacey Jones's side will face either Australia or Samoa in the final as they pursue their first tournament title since 2008.

Kalyn Ponga made a surprise return from a broken forearm to set up Briton Nikora's opening try, though Tonga responded with a brace from Jojo Fifita. Dane Gagai scored just before the interval, before second-half tries from Casey McLean, Jahrome Hughes, Xavier Willison, and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, alongside Jamayne Isaako's conversions, sealed the victory.