So, the 2026 Rugby League World Cup is up and running - and in some style, too.

Make sure you read Steve Sutcliffe's report from Australia's thrilling 24-22 victory over New Zealand here.

And remember, you can keep up to date with all things rugby league right here on the BBC Sport website.

See you next time. Goodbye!

Live radio commentary of both of Friday's matches will be available on BBC Sport.

First up, it's the men's Pool B/C opener between Samoa and France (07:35 BST) before women's world champions Australia kick off their defence against Samoa (10:05 BST). Both of those games are in Sydney.

And we'll have radio and live text commentary on Saturday as England and Wales meet in their opening women's match (07:35 BST), before England's men face Tonga (10:05 BST) - that double header is in Perth.

A case of what might have been for New Zealand - the better side on the day but without the points to show for it.

Kalyn Ponga sparkled on debut, scoring two tries, but his performance was overshadowed not only by injury but also a hat-trick from Australian newcomer Jack Bostock.

He scored one of two first-half interception tries for Australia, Tom Trbojevic bagging the other, and twice rose highest to get on the end of kicks from Cameron Munster, the latter securing the win at the death.

Reece Walsh also got on the scoresheet with a moment of individual magic.

Australia's hat-trick hero Jack Bostock, speaking on Premier Sports: "I can't put it into words. It's everything I've ever dreamed of. Probably just a little bit of confidence from [Cameron] Munster [with the kicks to set up the try opportunities]. It's something we worked on in training. It's no secret I like catching the ball. When Munster kicked it, I thought I'd better catch it or it's a waste of a good opportunity. International footy's not too bad."

Andrew Henderson
Former Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra

I think the other nations will see there's opportunity against Australia. Australia are rightly favourites but they are vulnerable in certain areas. Other nations - England, Tonga, Samoa - will be wary of both Australia and New Zealand but will also feel they're beatable.

More from Australia full-back Reece Walsh, on vomiting after his try: "I was stuffed. My calves were gone. I was getting cramps in my stomach. I just needed to spew."

On his battle with New Zealand full-back Kalyn Ponga: "It's special when you go up against special players. You want to take their challenge. He was massive for them and I'm gutted he looks to be injured. The fans are really going to miss him. I've got so much respect for the Kiwi boys, so I'm sure we're going to see them at the back end of the tournament."

On coming back from injury and his selection ahead of James Tedesco: "I haven't played in about nine weeks, so the calves were dying. What Teddy's done for me this week - to ask him questions and learn. Just because we've got the win tonight doesn't mean any spots are cemented. Everyone's going to have a chance to represent their country. When Teddy gets his chance, I'm going to do everything I can to help him."

Australia full-back Reece Walsh, speaking on Premier Sports: "It was a special one. Both teams really passionate. I was pretty emotional man, thinking of my family and friends who got me here. Awesome way to start the 2026 World Cup. Awesome game to be part of."

On Australia not being talked about in the build-up: "I feel like it was a blessing for us. Not much chat, let us get through our work. To go out there and compete against the best in the world. I'm glad we put on a show and New Zealand should be really proud, no matter the result."

New Zealand captain James Fisher-Harris, speaking on Premier Sports: "That's Test footy. A close game. The full 80 we were battling.

"Much respect to Australia. A few moments went their way.

"We fought to the death which I'm really proud of.

"Hopefully we'll see them down the track.

"It was a good start. Only improvement from here."

Australia captain Isaah Yeo, speaking on Premier Sports: "It was a hell of a battle out there. We were really resilient. I thought we were able to grind our way back in.

"Jack Bostock made some wonderful plays out there and that was probably the difference."

Couldn't have put it better myself, Simon.

New Zealand dominated the game but it's Australia who take the win.

The defending champions extend their unbeaten run at the World Cup to 19 matches.

New Zealand go for the grubber kick on halfway. It's gathered by an Australian and he strays into touch as the hooter sounds.

Australia have edged New Zealand 24-22.

Wow.

Kalyn Ponga has his arm in a sling on the sidelines. It's a suspected broken arm.

New Zealand, on their final set, nearing halfway with three tackles in the bank.

OH NO! Australia's Jacob Preston pinches it off the floor. New Zealand's Briton Nikora played the ball with no one there!

New Zealand begin a huge set 15 metres out from their own tryline.

Andrew Henderson
Former Scotland international on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra

Wow! Jack Bostock again is the poacher. Once again it's Cameron Munster with the high kick, and Bostock comes up trumps in the one-on-one with Jamayne Isaako again. Australia just don't go away.

Into the final three minutes. Australia lead by two points. Have they snatched this at the death?