Kalyn Ponga has delivered on his allegiance to New Zealand in remarkable fashion, winning the men's Golden Boot after two breathtaking World Cup displays at fullback.
In a national double act, Kiwi Ferns strike centre Stacey Waaka won the International Rugby League (IRL) women's Golden Boot with both players on hand to receive their awards on Thursday night at a function held at Suncorp Stadium.
Both the men and women's teams both performed hakas.
The gong this year has been awarded to the best international male and female player of 2026, obviously not taking into account performances from Sunday's World Cup finals in Brisbane where New Zealand and Australia clash in both.
Ponga, 28, edged out his Cup final counterpart Reece Walsh, Samoa powerhouse Francis Manuleleua, Tonga centre Robert Toia and Kiwi centre Casey McLean.
Due to the dearth of Test football, Ponga and Waaka have been recognised for their feats in their debut tournaments for their national teams.
After changes in international eligibility rules, Ponga was allowed to represent tier one nation New Zealand and play State of Origin for Queensland.
He had never played for Australia, but wanted to link with the Kiwis to honour his Maori heritage after representing Maori All Stars.
"I definitely made the right choice and I knew that from the moment I made it," Ponga said after receiving the award from father Andre.
"I am not in this environment to win this award. There is a bigger goal at the end of it, but to do it in these colours, for this country and for my people is special."
Ponga's two games for the Kiwis have been nothing short of sensational.
In the World Cup opener, he was on track to be man of the match before breaking his forearm and playing on for a further 20 minutes in the 24-20 loss to Australia. He eventually left the field in the 70th minute.
He returned 23 days later after a miracle recovery to be awarded player of the match in the 34-10 win over Tonga.
"The feeling I had in that first game is special and I feel it every day in camp. I wanted to get back and be part of it and I am thankful to the physios and medical staff," he said.
Coach and Kiwi great Stacey Jones struggled to find the word to describe his fullback.
"He's one of those players ... you know that he's really good, but when he's in your team, he's ... you know?," Jones grinned on Thursday.
"He's had a huge impact for us and how he played last week, just unbelievable to come back from a broken arm and slot in like that."
Waaka is a legend of New Zealand rugby union, whose move to the NRLW has been breathtaking.
The Warriors gun has already has won gold medals in sevens at two Olympic Games, one Commonwealth Games and one World Cup, along with two World Cup titles in the 15-a-side game.
Her nine tries in four matches at this World Cup while playing centre has been a key in the Ferns' progression to the final.
"I have never been in front of that haka and it hit me. It got me good," she said after receiving the gong.
"I am not an emotional person, but they nearly got tears out of me. I am super proud to have them by my side.
"This award is a testament to my friends who have supported me throughout this journey and to my amazing teammates who make me look good on the field.
"This is for you sisters. I am honoured and blessed because I know how prestigious this award is."
The Wheelchair golden boot has been taken out by England's Rob Hawkins ahead of Friday night's final in Wollongong between England and France.
The morning’s headlines in 90 seconds including a sexpionage scandal claiming a tech CEO and the collapse NYC building. (Source: 1News)
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