The New Zealand Kiwis have listed their 40-man extended squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, with some surprise contenders ready to don international colours at Test level.

CODE Sports has revealed the formidable group of players who will be condensed into a 23-man touring squad in October, with Melbourne Storm rising star Cooper Clarke receiving a surprise inclusion after his strong rookie year in the NRL.

Clarke played 24 games for Melbourne this year, helping to fill the void through the engine room left by forward duo Tui Kamikamica and Eliesa Katoa, who missed this season with serious injuries.

NRL Pre-Season Rd 2 – Raiders v Storm
CANBERRA, AUSTRALIA - FEBRUARY 13: Cooper Clarke of the Storm in action during the NRL pre-season match between Canberra Raiders and Melbourne Storm at Seiffert Oval, on February 13, 2026, in Canberra, Australia. (Photo by Mark Nolan/Getty Images)

The rookie inclusions continue with Newcastle rising talent Francis Manuleleua included for this strong season in the Hunter, possessing a powerful running game and the ability to find space.

Kiwis coach Stacey Jones also named recently eligible Kalyn Ponga to his squad, who is set to make his mark on the international stage in what will be an incredibly strong Kiwi outfit.

Parramatta Eels forward Jack Williams was also included in Jones' gang, rewarding him for his strong season in blue and gold after being a standout player in a disappointing campaign.

Penrith superstar Wizkid Casey McLean is also in the extended squad, alongside other Origin stars in Ponga and Briton Nikora.

Rabbitohs hooker Brandon Smith has impressed in his 2026 season with the South Sydney Rabbitohs, making the list and is set to feature for the first time in his country's colours since the last World Cup semi-final four years ago.

Meanwhile, injuries to Kaeo Weekes and Trey Mooney have resulted in them missing out on the extended squad.

Potential debuts are on the cards for forward duo Fonua Pole and Salesi Foketi, who have been picked in the Kiwis and Tonga squads.

Australia eliminated the Kiwis in the semi-finals last time in 2022, and revenge will be on top of their mind in their quest to reclaim the Cup for the first time since 2008.

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The Kiwis will kick things off against Australia on October 15 at Allianz Stadium.

The Kiwis' full extended squad: