Kotoni Staggs earned a spot in Australia's 2025 Ashes squad after a standout performance in the NRL grand final.

Kotoni Staggs has been named in the Australian Kangaroos squad for the 2025 Ashes tour of Great Britain, just one day after starring in the Brisbane Broncos' 26-22 NRL grand final win over the Melbourne Storm. The Wellington-born centre recorded 144 meters, one line break, two tackle breaks, and a team-high 27 tackles, playing a key role in the comeback victory. His performance earned him a spot in the Kangaroos' squad for the first Ashes series since 2003, featuring three test matches in late October and early November. Staggs, a former Cowboys player, is expected to start alongside teammates Gehamat Shibasaki and Zac Lomax. The men’s team, captained by Isaah Yeo, will face England on home soil, with coach Kevin Walters highlighting the squad’s mix of youth and experience. The Jillaroos women’s squad was also announced, including Bathurst’s Jakiya Whitfield, as the Pacific Championships begin later this month.