LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Australian men's rugby league team, known as the Kangaroos, started their Pacific Cup campaign with a dominant 38-12 victory over Samoa.
The team's success was largely due to the outstanding performances of props Payne Haas and Tino Fa'asumaleaui, who controlled the game in the opening quarter.
Meanwhile, in the women's match, fullback Tamika Upton made a stunning international debut, scoring two tries to secure a narrow 16-10 win against New Zealand.
Sua Faalogo, a debutant for Samoa, showcased his exceptional skills and potential as one of the game's most exciting young players.
Despite having played just one NRL game for the Melbourne Storm, Faalogo displayed incredible speed and footwork, as well as a strong ability to catch high balls.
His outstanding performance included a disallowed try, in which he chipped the ball over James Tedesco's head and regathered, only for the Bunker to rule a knock-on in the lead-up play.
Faalogo also played a key role in creating a try for Luciano Leilua in the second half.
Australia's victory was sealed within the opening 16 minutes of the match, as they stormed to a commanding 22-0 lead.
Haas, widely regarded as the world's best prop, further solidified his reputation with a powerful try, dragging Samoan forward Connelly Lemuelu over the line with him.
The Kangaroos' dominant display and the Jillaroos' hard-fought win against New Zealand showcased the strength and talent of Australian rugby league.