Record-Breaking Jamayne Isaako Scores 38 Points as Kiwis Rout Cook Islands 82–16 After Early Shock

Jamayne Isaako made history with a record 38-point haul as New Zealand defeated the Cook Islands 82–16 at the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. However, the Kiwis had to recover from a remarkable first-half spell in which Esom Ioka scored three tries in quick succession to give the Cook Islands a shock lead.

Isaako Makes History in New Zealand’s Emphatic Victory

Jamayne Isaako delivered a record-breaking performance as New Zealand overwhelmed the Cook Islands 82–16 in their Rugby League World Cup Group A encounter at One NZ Stadium in Christchurch on Sunday, 25 October 2026.

The winger finished with 38 points, scoring three tries and converting 13 of New Zealand’s 14 tries. His tally surpassed the previous New Zealand Test match record of 32 points, established by Tasesa Lavea against the Cook Islands in 2000.

Isaako’s achievement provided the standout individual story of a match that ultimately turned into a commanding victory for the Kiwis. New Zealand scored 14 tries to the Cook Islands’ three, recovering from an unexpectedly difficult opening period to register their first win of the tournament.

The result was particularly important for New Zealand after their narrow 24–22 defeat to defending champions Australia in their opening fixture. Having missed out on victory in that contest, the Kiwis responded with an attacking display that strengthened their position ahead of the remaining group-stage matches.

Esom Ioka Stuns the Kiwis With Remarkable Hat-Trick

New Zealand initially appeared to be heading towards a comfortable afternoon after Isaako opened the scoring early and Ronaldo Mulitalo added another try. The hosts moved into a 12–0 lead, seemingly establishing control of the contest.

However, Cook Islands winger Esom Ioka produced an extraordinary response. He intercepted a pass and sprinted a long distance to score before collecting a cross-field kick from veteran playmaker Brad Takairangi for his second try.

Ioka then struck again with another interception, completing his hat-trick in a remarkable spell that briefly turned the match on its head. The Cook Islands moved ahead 16–12 after approximately 20 minutes, leaving the home crowd stunned and raising the possibility of a major upset.

The winger’s individual brilliance exposed vulnerabilities in New Zealand’s defence and demonstrated that the Cook Islands could threaten even one of the tournament favourites. His three tries were a memorable achievement, although the momentum he created proved difficult for his team to sustain.

New Zealand Regain Control Before Half-Time

Isaako helped restore New Zealand’s advantage with his second try, finishing on the outside before converting from a difficult position. Scott Sorensen then crossed as the Kiwis began to recover their composure and make better use of their attacking opportunities.

Tanner Stowers-Smith, making his Test debut, added another try after entering the match from the bench. Casey McLean also crossed before half-time, capping a strong attacking move involving Erin Clark, Keano Kini and Kodi Nikorima.

By the interval, New Zealand had transformed their position, leading 36–16. The turnaround reflected their ability to respond after being caught off guard, with their passing, support play and ability to exploit gaps in the Cook Islands’ defence becoming increasingly effective.

For the Cook Islands, the challenge was now to prevent the deficit from growing further. Their early attacking success had demonstrated their potential, but containing New Zealand’s increasingly confident attack required a level of defensive consistency they struggled to maintain.

Kiwis Run Away With the Contest After the Break

New Zealand began the second half with the same urgency that had helped them take control before the interval. Keano Kini broke through the defence to score, extending the lead to 42–16.

Stowers-Smith then completed his double, giving the debutant a memorable introduction to international rugby league. Nikorima followed with another try after winning the contest for a high ball, while McLean and Mulitalo also added their second tries of the match.

The Cook Islands were unable to halt the momentum as New Zealand repeatedly found space and moved the ball effectively across the field. Isaako completed his hat-trick late in the contest, converting the try to bring his personal tally to the record 38 points.

Te Maire Martin and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad added further tries as the Kiwis completed their 82–16 victory. The final score reflected the extent of New Zealand’s second-half dominance, even though the Cook Islands had briefly threatened a shock result earlier in the game.

Stowers-Smith and McLean Add to New Zealand’s Promising Display

Isaako’s record understandably dominated the headlines, but several teammates also produced performances of significance.

Stowers-Smith scored twice on his Test debut, making an immediate impact after coming off the bench. The young forward’s performance was especially notable because it came in front of his home crowd in Christchurch.

McLean also scored twice, continuing an impressive start to his international career. His two tries took his total to 11 in just six Tests, underlining his growing influence in New Zealand’s backline.

Mulitalo likewise finished with a double, while Nikorima contributed through his attacking involvement and try-scoring effort. The collective contribution was central to New Zealand’s recovery after Ioka’s remarkable opening spell.

The performance also offered encouragement to coach Stacey Jones, whose side had lost narrowly to Australia in their tournament opener. The Kiwis demonstrated their capacity to create scoring opportunities from several positions, although the early defensive lapses will remain an area for improvement against stronger opposition.

Fiji Clash Awaits as Cook Islands Face Australia

New Zealand’s attention now turns to their final group-stage fixture against Fiji, scheduled for the Gold Coast. The encounter is expected to be an important test of their progress after the defeat to Australia and the recovery against the Cook Islands.

The Kiwis will hope to carry their attacking confidence into that match while tightening the defensive issues exposed by Ioka’s hat-trick. Against opponents capable of exploiting mistakes, New Zealand cannot afford to assume that early leads will guarantee control.

The Cook Islands, meanwhile, are due to face defending champions Australia in Townsville as they seek to finish their campaign strongly. Despite the heavy defeat, Ioka’s first-half performance provided a reminder of the threat they can pose when their attacking opportunities are executed effectively.

For Isaako, the Christchurch match will be remembered for a landmark individual achievement. His 38 points established a new New Zealand Test scoring record, while the team’s 82–16 victory gave the Kiwis a much-needed boost in their World Cup campaign.

The early scare showed that New Zealand still have areas to address, but their response demonstrated the attacking strength that makes them serious contenders in the tournament.