The Australian rugby league team secured a decisive 66-6 victory over the Cook Islands in Townsville, topping Pool A. Reece Walsh stood out with one try and five assists, while Tom Trbojevic scored his second hat-trick in consecutive games. Despite the win, Australia's performance revealed inconsistencies, with 15 errors noted throughout the match.
Coach Kevin Walters now faces a selection dilemma for the upcoming semi-final against either Samoa or Tonga. While the Kangaroos showcased strong attacking play, their ongoing issues suggest further refinement is needed before the knockout stage.