Kangaroos show respect to Kiwis great ahead of Pacific Championships clash

Shaun Johnson has been officially pulled from retirement to represent New Zealand one last time at the Pacific Championship.

The 34-year-old retired from the NRL at the end of 2024, however injuries from Jahrome Hughes, Dylan Brown and Kieran Foran left the Kiwis looking to the former New Zealand star.

Kangaroos hooker Harry Grant discussed the surprise addition of Johnson and he is excited to play against the NRL legend and see what he can bring to the Kiwis.

“It’s exciting that Shaun Johnson put his hand up to play for his country and how much New Zealand and the game of rugby league means to him,” Grant said on SENQ.

“It’s pretty impressive.

“We are excited to go up against Shaun in a Test match.”

The former Warriors halfback has played 32 Test matches over his career, however his last game for the Kiwis was 2019.

Cory Parker reacted to this decision, unsure if Johnson can keep up with the speed and pressures of a test match.

“Shaun has been a wonderful player over a long period of time…but he is a retired player, he is in that headspace, that relaxation,” Parker said on SENQ.

“I just don’t know if he will have the same input that he has had.”

Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga has opted to keep the same side for the upcoming Australia vs New Zealand match, leaving Parker unsure if the Kiwis will be able to recreate their record breaking win in last year's final.

Australia will take on New Zealand on Sunday 27th October in Christchurch.