World Cup Nines

Cook Islands tame Tongans at World Cup Nines

Kayal Iro, son of Kiwis great Kevin Iro, ran in two of the Cooks' six tries; the Tongans only cut the chalk once.

Earlier, the Papua New Guinea men's team defeated the USA, 27-10.

Junior Vavai scored the opening try for the US before the former Hunters players Watson Boas, Edene Gebbie and Stargroth Amean ran in three of PNG's six tries.

Meanwhile, Samoa were too good for Fiji, winning 32-17.

Brian To'o scored two of Samoa's six tries; Fiji ran in three.

Today in Sydney, Samoa take on the Cooks, Tonga meet Fiji and PNG face New Zealand.

PNG looks to impress at the World Cup Nines

Twelve teams are to contest the men's tournament and four will compete in the women's competition.

PNG, Fiji, Samoa, the Cook Islands and a Tongan invitational XIII are the Pacific sides joining the traditional league powerhouses of Australia, New Zealand and England.

Leeds Rhinos second rower Rhyse Martin said it was an honour to be chosen to lead the Kumuls at the World Cup.

"It was a great feeling when coach told me but the feeling I got...when the boys were really excited for me gave me chills and I am really excited to play for the Kumuls," Martin said.

Ponga, Moses named for WC Nines

The Newcastle Knights' Ponga and Parramatta Eels' Moses are yet to represent Australia, but are set to play their parts in Sydney on October 18-19.

Moses' Eels team-mate Clint Gutherson and the Brisbane Broncos' David Fifita are also part of the squad.

Australia head coach Mal Meninga is excited by the players he has at his disposal for the tournament.

Congrats to Eels Clint Gutherson, Mitch Moses and Nathan Brown who have been named in Australia’s Nines squad!