Iro, Piakura, Niukore spearhead Cook Islands squad

The Cook Islands have unveiled their squad for the 2025 Pacific Bowl, featuring a strong lineup led by premiership victor Brendan Piakura, Sharks standout KL Iro, and Warriors' tough player Marata Niukore.

Piakura represented the Cook Islands in three Test matches in 2022, including games against PNG and Tonga during the World Cup.

KL Iro was similarly involved in the World Cup and will be making his ninth Test appearance when the Cook Islands face the Fiji Bati in Port Moresby on October 18.

Marata Niukore, who has played three Tests for the Kukis in 2017 and 2019, is expected to be a pivotal player for coach Karmichael Hunt.

Veteran player Brad Takairangi is set to lead the Cook Islands as they prepare for a World Cup qualification match against South Africa at CommBank Stadium on November 9.

The squad includes:

Brad Takairangi (South West Goannas)
Brendan Piakura (Broncos)
Brody Tamarua (Norths Devils)
Cassius Cowley* (Wynnum-Manly Seagulls)
Davvy Moale (Rabbitohs)
Delahia Wigmore (Panthers)
Esan Marsters (Salford Red Devils)
Esom Ioka (Northern Pride)
Justin Makirere (Norths Devils)
KL Iro (Sharks)
Marata Niukore (Warriors)
Makahesi Makatoa (Roosters)
Mason Teague (Knights)
Paul Ulberg (Toulouse Olympique)
Pride Petterson-Robati (Souths Logan Magpies)
Reuben Porter (Wests Tigers)
Reubenn Rennie (Toulouse Olympique)
Rua Ngatikaura (Rabbitohs)
Teapo Stoltman* (Souths Logan Magpies)
Tepai Moeroa (North Sydney Bears)

* denotes debutant