NSW claims 2026 NRL Wheelchair State Challenge with 54-40 win over Queensland
New South Wales have claimed the 2026 NRL Wheelchair State Challenge after an entertaining 54-40 victory over Queensland at Bennelong Sports Centre in West Ryde on Sunday.
The Blues produced an impressive attacking performance to secure the interstate honours, with player-coach Diab Karim leading the way in a standout individual display.
Karim crossed for four tries and kicked nine goals, finishing with 34 points and earning Player of the Match honours.
NSW established control early, with Karim scoring and converting the opening two tries to give the Blues a 12-0 advantage.
Liam Luff and Stephan Rochecouste also crossed during a dominant opening half, helping NSW take a 36-20 lead into half-time.
Queensland refused to go away, with captain Bayley McKenna at the centre of their fightback. McKenna scored four tries and kicked four goals, while Zac Schumacher and Adam Tannock also crossed for the Maroons.
The visitors continued to apply pressure after the break, but NSW had the answers.
Rochecouste finished with three tries for the Blues, while Cory Cannane also crossed as NSW maintained their advantage and closed out the match 54-40.
The result continues an impressive year for NSW after the state also claimed the 2026 LCA NRL Wheelchair Championship on the Gold Coast in July.
The State Challenge brought together a host of current and former Australian representatives, with several players involved also part of the Wheelaroos squad preparing for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
2026 NRL Wheelchair State Challenge
NSW 54 defeated Queensland 40
Half-time: NSW 36-20
Player of the Match: Diab Karim (NSW)
NSW: Tries – Diab Karim 4, Stephan Rochecouste 3, Liam Luff 1, Cory Cannane 1. Goals – Diab Karim 9.
Queensland: Tries – Bayley McKenna 4, Zac Schumacher 2, Adam Tannock 1. Goals – Bayley McKenna 4, Zac Schumacher 2.
The full match replay is available via the NRL Wheelchair livestream:
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