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Rugby: New Zealand Schools beat Australia Schoolboys 40-21 in Hamilton

They'll have to lift their game by some margin if they are to complete a clean sweep.

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 4:00 AM
Rugby: New Zealand Schools beat Australia Schoolboys 40-21 in Hamilton
Key Things to Know
  • New Zealand Schools defeated Australia Schoolboys 40-21 at the national Under-18 pathways programme in Hamilton.
  • New Zealand opened a 33-0 first-half lead before Australia Schoolboys fought back in a disjointed second half.
  • Australia U18s extended their winning streak to 13 matches by defeating the New Zealand U18 Barbarians 54-31.
The Story in 60 Seconds

The New Zealand Schools rugby team claimed a 40-21 victory over Australia Schoolboys in Hamilton. New Zealand established a commanding 33-0 lead within the opening 33 minutes courtesy of tries from Te Ariki Rogers, Nico Stanley, Fletcher Cooper, Kobe Narruhn, and Lucas Goodman. However, the performance turned disjointed in the second half as Australia outscored the hosts 14-7, before Matt Fleming added another try for New Zealand to seal the win.

New Zealand Schools now prepare to face the Australia U18s team, who defeated the New Zealand U18 Barbarians 54-31 earlier in the day to extend their winning streak to 13 matches. New Zealand Schools coach Kane Jury acknowledged the squad's patchy execution and defensive errors, but welcomed entering Sunday's final match as underdogs.

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