How to watch Australia v New Zealand: Live stream the Rugby League World Cup opener

Almost a decade ago, the women's Rugby League World Cup final marked a turning point for the sport. Australia's dominant 23-16 victory over New Zealand in 2017 was not only their first-ever World Cup final win on home soil but also signaled the beginning of a new era for women's rugby league. In the years that followed, the Jillaroos have consistently shown their superiority, winning 15 of their last 16 matches and conceding only two tries in a game since 2018.

They have demonstrated their dominance through their impressive win totals, scoring 312-12 in their last World Cup and a staggering 54-4 against New Zealand in the final. The Jillaroos' roster boasts nine players from this year's NRLW Dally M Team of the Year, including top players like Isabelle Kelly, Kezie Apps, and Simaima Taufa.

As other teams, like New Zealand and Samoa, have made strides, Australia remains significantly stronger. While New Zealand has risen to challenge Australia, they have yet to match the Jillaroos' dominance. The Samoans, though improving, are currently 53.5-point underdogs against the Jillaroos. Despite their sizeable deficit, the next few years will see progress in women's rugby league, with teams like England, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea vying for improved positions in the sport.

Ultimately, Australia remains the formidable force that could turn the dreams of other nations into nightmares.