The Cook Islands have announced their squad for the 2025 Pacific Bowl - a balanced group featuring familiar faces and hungry young talent ready to make a name for themselves on the international stage. With a mix of NRL experience and emerging stars from Queensland and NSW Cup, this squad has plenty of upside.

Full Cook Islands Squad

Cassius Cowley (Wynnum-Manly Seagulls)
Esom Ioka (Northern Pride)
KL Iro (Sharks)
Makahesi Makatoa (Roosters)
Justin Makirere (Norths Devils)
Davvy Moale (Rabbitohs)
Tepai Moeroa (North Sydney Bears)
Rua Ngatikaura (Rabbitohs)
Marata Niukore (Warriors)
Pride Petterson-Robati (Souths Logan Magpies)
Brendan Piakura (Broncos)
Reuben Porter (Tigers)
Reubenn Rennie (Toulouse Olympique)
Teapo Stoltman (Souths Logan Magpies)
Brad Takairangi (South West Goannas)
Brody Tamarua (Norths Devils)
Mason Teague (Knights)
Paul Ulberg (Toulouse Olympique)
Delahia Wigmore (Panthers)

Key Talking Points

Has Takairangi Still Got It?

Brad Takairangi has been a mainstay of the Cook Islands setup for years. His NRL days may be behind him, but his leadership and experience could prove invaluable here. Fans - both Cook Islands and Eels faithful - will be pumped to see him lace up again. Can he be the senior voice this team needs to shake up the Bowl competition?

The Rise of KL Iro

KL Iro continues to build his reputation as one of the premier centres in rugby league. Fresh off a dominant season with the Sharks, Iro’s blend of strength and creativity makes him a genuine X-factor. The key for him will be finding the ball, not waiting for it - if he’s active, the Cook Islands attack will flow through him.

Youth on Display

The Pacific Bowl has become the perfect platform for emerging talent - and this squad is loaded with it. Players like Mason Teague, Cassius Cowley, and Davvy Moale are all out to prove they belong at the next level. For many, this tournament is a showcase for NRL or Super League contracts, and that desperation to perform often brings out the best footy you’ll see all year.

Final Word

The Cook Islands always punch above their weight, and this 2025 squad feels like a step forward. A solid mix of experience and youth, leadership in key positions, and players with everything to prove. Expect them to play with pride, aggression, and unity - a dangerous combo for any side that underestimates them.