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The Hibiscus Coast Raiders masters team took on the Whutupōro Rīki Whaikaha o Aotearoa – Physical Disability Rugby League (PDRLNZ) Kiwis team last weekend to help them prepare for 2026 PDRLA World Cup in Sydney later this year.
The world event will be held at the AIIMS Stadium, Cabramatta from October 27 to November 8 against teams from England and Australia.
PDRLNZ founder Sandra Hickey says it is the second world cup event for the team and they will be taking a squad of 20, with many making their first debut.
“It’s going to be exciting for them and we are looking forward to a fantastic event.”
She says she set up the organisation about 11 years ago a after discovering there were few opportunities for people with physical disabilities to play sport. Training with teams like the Raiders is an important part of their training, she says.
“The Raiders have been incredibly supportive, and they are a good bunch of guys who don’t hold back, which is great for the team.”
PDRL gives those who were born with a physical disability, or have found themselves with one through an event or accident, the opportunity to be involved in a team sport. The games is modified to cater for different levels of disability, with some playing the touch form of the game and others full contact.
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