Australian Wheelaroos captain Bayley McKenna and teammate Adam Tannock have been named among eight finalists for the prestigious 2026 International Rugby League (IRL) Wheelchair Golden Boot award.

The nominations recognise the pair’s outstanding performances on the international stage, including their contributions to Australia’s Rugby League World Cup 2026 campaign on home soil.

The IRL Golden Boot is awarded annually to the best player in sanctioned international rugby league matches and is one of the highest individual honours in the sport.

McKenna has led the Wheelaroos throughout their World Cup campaign, demonstrating his leadership, attacking ability and composure under pressure. The Australian captain was named Player of the Match in the opening victory over New Zealand and has been instrumental in guiding the team through the tournament.

“Being named a Golden Boot finalist is an incredible honour and something I’m extremely proud of,” McKenna said.

“It means a lot to have the hard work, dedication and passion recognised, especially knowing the journey and what it takes to represent my team and my country.”

Tannock has also delivered a series of impressive performances, bringing speed, determination and attacking flair to the Australian side. His efforts against Scotland earned him Player of the Match honours, highlighting his ability to make an impact on the international stage.

“Being nominated for the Golden Boot is something I had never imagined. The Golden Boot is the highest individual achievement in Wheelchair Rugby League, and to be recognised alongside the incredible athletes who have received this award over the years is a true honour,” Tannock said.

“This nomination shows that the little things really do matter. Making small adjustments to your own gameplay, continuing to learn, improving your skills and finding ways to better support and assist your teammates can make all the difference.”

The nominations are a significant achievement for both players and further recognition of the progress of Australian wheelchair rugby league.

McKenna and Tannock are joined on the eight-player shortlist by England’s Joe Coyd and two-time reigning winner Rob Hawkins, Ireland captain Joe Calcott, and French representatives Jeremy Bourson, Nicolas Clausells and Dany Denuwelaere.

The recognition comes as the Wheelaroos prepare for their final match of the Rugby League World Cup, taking on Ireland in the third-place playoff at the WIN Entertainment Centre in Wollongong on Friday 13 November.

NRL Wheelchair congratulates Bayley and Adam on their nominations and wishes them both the very best for the Golden Boot announcement.