An extended Australian Wheelaroos squad of 12 players has been announced for Rugby League World Cup 2026, marking an important milestone as the team builds towards the biggest event on the international Wheelchair Rugby League calendar.

Wheelaroos coach Brett Clark said selected players had earned their place through consistent performances and will now progress into the next phase of preparation, with the LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship set to take place on the Gold Coast from July 10-12.

Following the Championship, the extended squad will assemble for a performance training camp as preparations intensify for Australia's RLWC2026 campaign.

Athletes will be challenged through tactical development, skill execution under pressure, match-specific scenarios and team-building activities, with the coaching staff closely assessing combinations and performances.

With less than 150 days to go, the camp represents a critical step in finalising the team that will proudly wear the green and gold on rugby league’s biggest stage.

“The extended squad reflects the depth of talent we now have across Australia," Clark said.

"We’ve got a great blend of experienced internationals and emerging players who have earned their opportunity through strong performances at both club and representative level.

"The focus now is on building combinations, driving standards and preparing ourselves to compete at our very best on the world stage."

The squad highlights the continued growth of Wheelchair Rugby League in Australia, with athletes representing multiple states and pathways programs that have underpinned the rapid development of the sport in recent years.

NRL Wheelchair CEO, Anna Fitzgerald said the announcement also marked a new chapter for the Wheelaroos leadership following the retirement of long-time Australian captain Brad Grove from international competition.

“We are extremely excited about the quality, depth and potential of this extended squad as we prepare to take on the world’s best on home soil. The group represents an outstanding composition of seasoned campaigners and emerging talent, creating a strong foundation for a successful World Cup campaign,” Fitzgerald said.

As the Wheelaroos continue their World Cup preparations, the focus is on building cohesion, elevating standards and showcasing the skill, speed and physicality of Wheelchair Rugby League on the world stage.

This extended list sees the return of experienced campaigners, Toby Popple and Stephan Rochecouste to the Wheelaroos fold, while Brett Bazley earns his first national squad selection following recent impressive performances.

The final World Cup squad will be confirmed later this year.

2026 Australian Wheelaroos Extended Squad

Daniel Anstey, QLD
Pete Arbuckle, QLD
Brett Bazley, QLD
Cory Cannane, NSW
Dylan Gawthorne, QLD
Diab Karim, NSW
Liam Luff, NSW
Toby Popple, NSW
Bayley McKenna, QLD
Stephan Rochecouste, NSW
Zac Schumacher, QLD
Adam Tannock, QLD