Valentine Holmes will be available for the Cook Islands at Rugby League World Cup 2026, choosing to honour the heritage of his mother Lucy.
The 30-year-old has played 21 Tests for Australia and 22 State of Origin games for Queensland, including World Cups and Four Nations. A rotator cuff injury at the end of 2025 ruled him out of the Pacific Championships and the qualifier against South Africa, but coach Karmichael Hunt brought him into camp as a mentor, including the trip to Rarotonga where players reconnected with their culture.
Now I want to give back to my mum’s side.Valentine Holmes
Holmes has been in good form for the Dragons, scoring twice in their 30-26 upset of Brisbane. He joins a strong core that includes KL Iro, Marata Niukore and Davvy Moale.
The Cook Islands have played at three previous men’s World Cups, in 2000, 2013 and 2021, beating Wales 28-24 in 2013 and 18-12 in 2021. Making the knockout stage for the first time is the goal.
