New Zealand's leaders are urging the squad to stick together when tournament pressure rises, forward Tanner Stowers-Smith says.
Reflecting on the Kiwis' performance against the Cook Islands, the 22-year-old pointed to James Fisher-Harris, known as Fish, and the team's leadership group.
"When things are hard, and things are tough, are you going to turn on your brother? Are you going to have their back and go through the hard patch together?" Stowers-Smith asked.
He believes that commitment helps the squad face difficult moments as one, rather than letting setbacks divide them.
Stowers-Smith said New Zealand's talent is exceptional, but individual ability alone cannot ensure international success.
"The talent we have in the team is second to none, and then that's the other piece that's going to bring, hopefully, through to the finals," Stowers-Smith said.
As the Kiwis pursue a place in the Rugby League World Cup finals, he sees their bond as a vital part of their prospects.
"For finals, it's how we are with the brotherhood and how we go from there".