“Burning Desire” by Mala Meninga before the match against New Zealand

The Kangaroos are currently fighting to regain the Pacific title after losing in 2023.

They qualified for the final against traditional foes New Zealand but were shocked to suffer a record defeat in Waikato, losing 30–0 to give up the trophy.

They began their 2024 campaign with a much-changed team and an 18-0 win over a spirited Tongan side.

Their attention now turns to avenging the disastrous defeat in last year’s decider.

MORE: How to Fix Kangaroo’s Disjointed Attack

Kangaroos assistant discusses New Zealand Test

Ahead of Australia’s match against New Zealand in Christchurch on Sunday, the Kangaroos’ assistant coach revealed how the team was fired up to erase the demons of defeat in 2023.

“(We’re) expecting an extremely tough game, it’s obviously been talked about and advertised a lot,” Holbrook said on SEN.

“The last meeting they won 30-0 so we obviously don’t want to go down that route again so it’s going to be a really tough game but we’re looking forward to it.”

“It’s already sold out I think given what the Warriors did two years ago, they sold out all their home games and now it’s continuing in Christchurch.”

Holbrook says Meninga in particular has a burning desire to regain his edge over the New Zealanders and instill passion for the game in the green and gold jumper again.

“He did (discuss the loss) when we first arrived last week,” Holbrook said.

“(He wanted) the players to understand the importance of what an honor it is to play for the Kangaroos and to put on the jersey.”

Meninga has also made headlines for advocating for the continued expansion of rugby league around the world; she did that with her Las Vegas operation, but Meninga believes the international game needs to be brought to new markets.

Holbrook says he admires Meninga’s passion for sport and the international game, which has come under question in recent times as star players such as Kalin Ponga have chosen not to represent their country.

“I love what Mel is doing, he’s so passionate about making the Kangaroos popular again,” he said.

“When he played, he had the luxury that if they toured the UK, 10,000 Australians would go on tour, and if we were the hosts, the Barmy Army and 10,000 people would come here.

“Things have dropped off significantly over the years because of the increased competition in the NRL and then because of COVID, so now he’s really running it and I think that’s great because winning premierships is great, but the biggest honor is , which you can honor is to represent your country.” “