Kiwis Announce Team for Pacific Championship, Nicoll-Klokstad Included

As the Pacific Championship approaches, Kiwis coach Stacey Jones has unveiled his 21-player squad set to compete against Tonga and Samoa. The announcement came during an episode of “Sports Fix” hosted by D’Arcy Waldegrave on October 7, 2025. Among the selected players is Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad, the fullback for the Warriors, who shared insights about the Kiwis’ preparations for the tournament.

The Pacific Championship is scheduled to kick off in less than two weeks, heightening the anticipation among fans and players alike. Jones’ squad reflects a blend of experience and emerging talent, aimed at showcasing New Zealand’s rugby league prowess on an international stage. Nicoll-Klokstad expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming matches, emphasizing the team’s commitment to performing at their best.

During the episode, Waldegrave delved into his belief that Bathurst is the greatest race on earth, sparking a lively discussion about motorsport’s place in New Zealand culture. He also engaged with Nick Bewley, a sports commentator from Newstalk ZB Christchurch, to analyze the Kiwis’ lineup and the absence of Australia from this year’s competition.

The Kiwis’ participation in the Pacific Championship is particularly significant as it highlights the growing prominence of rugby league in the region. The absence of the Australian team has stirred conversations about the competitive landscape, with many analysts suggesting that this might open the door for other nations to shine.

In addition to the rugby discussions, Bewley and Waldegrave reflected on the recent performance of the White Ferns, who faced a disappointing defeat to South Africa in the ODI World Cup. This result has sparked discussions around the future of women’s cricket in New Zealand and the need for strategic improvements.

Listeners can catch “Sports Fix” every weekday afternoon on iHeartRadio or through various podcast platforms, providing an engaging mix of sports analysis and commentary. The lead-up to the Pacific Championship promises to be exciting, with fans eagerly awaiting the Kiwis’ performance against their Pacific rivals.