Four tries against the reigning world champions were just the beginning for New Beith’s local wheelchair rugby league player, Daniel Anstey, who is now preparing for the biggest tournament of his rugby league career.
Mr Anstey is one of just 10 athletes selected to represent Australia at the 2026 Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup, where he hopes to perform in front of his family on home soil.
“Representing Australia means everything. It’s the world stage and there’s nothing like representing your country, so I’d have to say it’s a dream come true,” Anstey said.
“I’m most excited about performing on the world stage in front of my family. I’ve been training as much as I can and working hard on the fundamentals to make sure I’m ready.”
Anstey is no stranger to international competition, having made his Australian debut against New Zealand in 2024.
Last year, he scored four tries across two Ashes Tests against reigning world champions England, including two in a thrilling second match that Australia narrowly lost 48-42.
He also represented Queensland at this year’s NRL Wheelchair State Challenge against New South Wales.
But the upcoming tournament marks another milestone, with Anstey preparing for his first World Cup appearance.
Wheelaroos head coach Brett Clark said the New Beith player had earned his selection through hard work and dedication.
“Dan brings plenty of energy to this group and has worked hard to put himself in the best possible position for a World Cup,” Clark said.
“He’s excited by the opportunity to test himself on the world stage and we’re looking forward to seeing what he can bring to the team when the tournament gets underway.”
The Wheelaroos, captained by Bayley McKenna, will face New Zealand in their opening match at Wollongong’s WIN Entertainment Centre on Saturday 31 October.
Australia will then take on Scotland on Tuesday 3 November and France on Friday 6 November, hoping to progress to the knockout stages.
Eight nations will compete in the tournament, which runs from 30 October to 13 November and marks the first Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup held in Australia since 2008.
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