The storied Kelly Cup is set to make a triumphant return to the Riverina rugby league calendar after a hiatus, pitting the best players from Group 9 and Group 20 against each other in both men’s and women’s formats.
The highly anticipated showdown will take place on February 14, 2026, at Wade Park in Yenda, marking a revival of one of the region’s most cherished representative fixtures.
Once hailed as the “jewel in the crown” of Riverina rugby league, the Kelly Cup has a rich history dating back decades, embodying the fierce rivalry between two of New South Wales’ strongest regional competitions.
Group 9, centred around Wagga Wagga and encompassing clubs like Gundagai, Southcity, and Temora, has long been a powerhouse in the Riverina, producing numerous Country representatives and boasting a dominant record in the cup.
Group 20, based in the Griffith and Murrumbidgee Irrigation Area with teams from Leeton, Yenda, and Darlington Point, brings its own grit and talent, drawing from a passionate community where rugby league thrives in towns big and small.
The competition’s origins trace back to the mid-20th century, evolving amid boundary shifts and rezonings as rugby league grew in popularity across the region. It has served as a battle-ground for the finest talent from these neighbouring groups, with matches often highlighting the depth and skill in rural NSW. However, the fixture was controversially axed following Group 9’s commanding 52-6 victory over Group 20 in 2022, amid concerns over lopsided results and competitiveness.
Group 9 has remained unbeaten against their rivals since 2012, including stints where the format shifted to under-23s between 2017 and 2019. After years in the wilderness, grassroots advocacy and discussions between the groups led to its resurrection, with Group 20 hosting the 2026 edition to kick off the new era.
“This is more than just a game—it’s about reigniting that Riverina passion and showcasing the best our regions have to offer,” said a Group 9 spokesperson.
The shift to a pre-season slot in February aims to build momentum ahead of the main campaigns, while also serving as a trial for players eyeing spots in the Country Championships.
In the men’s division, Group 9’s squad is stacked with talent from defending premiers Gundagai and Southcity, who contribute four and five players respectively. Standout selections include Country representative James Morgan (Gundagai), a dynamic centre known for his impact; Mat Lyons (Southcity), a returning force in the backline; Cody Hodge (Southcity), slotted at fullback; and Hayden Philp (Temora), the reigning Weissel Medal winner who will anchor the forwards.
Other notables are Derek Hay (Gundagai), making a comeback, and Brody Tracey (Southcity), a 25-year-old second-rower eager to prove himself.
Group 20 has unveiled a healthy 19-man squad, notably excluding some grand finalists to prioritise fitness and form for the challenge ahead.
The women’s match promises equal excitement, with Group 9’s squad featuring a mix of award-winners and rising stars from six clubs, including dual-code threat Milly Lucas (Estella) and strong performers like Deanna Smith (Gundagai) and Shania McKinnon (Young). The team remains unbeaten against Group 20 and looks to extend that streak.
The full Group 9 women’s squad includes: Abbey Field, Annabelle Willis, Claire Foley, Emma Hickey, Kate Foley (Junee), Abbey Flanagan, Deanna Smith (Gundagai), Alicia Haisell, Maisy McCrone (Temora), Caitlin Blackford, Charlotte Gray, Josey Hoey, Shania McKinnon (Young), Dana Seward, Ivy Merlehan, Jorja Brennan, Kassandra Hiscock, Milly Lucas (Estella), Keyarna Merritt-Wedge (Southcity).
Group 20’s women’s squad has also been selected, with training commencing on January 31 at Leagues Club Oval, emphasising full commitment. Early mentions highlight players like Bobbi Gooli and Fuzz from Ivanhoe Roosters, alongside talents such as Monique Higgins, Sophia Kelsey, and the Darlow sisters (Lilly and Ellie).
Fans from across the South West Slopes and beyond are urged to head to Yenda for what promises to be a day of high-stakes rugby league. As Group 9 coach Blake Dunn noted, this is a squad built on leadership and balance, ready to defend their legacy while Group 20 seeks redemption.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Riverina prepares for this epic revival.
The Kelly Cup — the prestigious representative clash between Group 9 and Group 20 rugby league competitions has a proud but lopsided history that highlights the intense local rivalry. Key historical highlights include: Group 20’s last victory came in 2012, when they lifted the cup in what remains their most recent triumph. Players like Ben and Tom Warner were part of that successful side, marking a high point for the Razorbacks in the fixture.
Since 2012, Group 9 has remained unbeaten against Group 20. This streak includes dominant performances in open-age formats and continued through the under-23 era (2017–2019). Notable recent results from the open men’s fixture: 2022: Group 9 defeated Group 20 52-6 (the last edition before the hiatus). This lopsided score contributed to the controversial decision to shelve the cup amid concerns over competitiveness. 2016: Group 9 held on for a 34-24 victory, keeping the cup in their possession.
With the cup’s revival set for February 14, 2026, at Wade Park in Yenda (hosted by Group 20), all eyes are on whether the Razorbacks can end the long drought. Group 9 enters as heavy favourites based on history, but the pre-season timing and full-strength selections could make for a closer contest. For fans, this is more than a game—it’s a celebration of Riverina footy heritage.
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