Imagine being told you’re the best in the world—not just by fans, but by your own teammates. That’s the bold claim Dylan Brown and the Kiwis are making after their stunning Pacific Cup victory, and it’s a statement that’s sure to spark debate. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can they truly back up this claim on the global stage? Let’s dive in.
Dylan Brown’s rugby league journey this season has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. After a season of sporadic appearances with the Parramatta Eels, Brown emerged as a force to be reckoned with during the Pacific Cup. Winning three consecutive player-of-the-match awards, he played a pivotal role in New Zealand’s triumphs over Samoa (twice) and Tonga, securing their second Pacific Cup title. Partnering with Kieran Foran in his final games, Brown’s performance at five-eighth was nothing short of exceptional, cementing his status as a contender for the 2025 Golden Boot award.
‘The feeling is incredible,’ Brown shared. ‘It’s been a long, unpredictable year, but the bond with the team carried us through. We truly relished this victory.’ When asked to describe the season, Brown chose the word ‘interesting.’ ‘People might call it a bad year, but for me, it’s been a year of growth. I’ve played center, hooker, and even faced being dropped from an NRL team. But the key is to keep learning, and winning this tournament is a highlight I’ll always cherish.’
And this is the part most people miss: Brown’s passion for representing his country is undeniable. ‘When Stacey Jones called and asked if I was keen to play for the Kiwis, it wasn’t even a question,’ he said. ‘Playing for New Zealand is an honor, no matter the circumstances. If I hadn’t played, I would’ve been devastated. There’s no greater feeling than wearing the black jersey. It’s something that takes over—even someone like me, who doesn’t usually celebrate tries, gets swept up in the emotion.’
While Tonga and Samoa dominated pre-tournament headlines, the Kiwis remained quietly confident. ‘The lack of external pressure worked in our favor,’ Brown explained. ‘We always believed we could win, regardless of what others said. We hold ourselves to the standard of being the best in the world, and that’s a mindset driven by our co-captain, James Fisher Harris. When you have someone of his caliber leading the charge, it’s easy to follow.’
Here’s the bold claim: ‘We’re not just saying it—we truly believe we’re the best, and we’re coming for the World Cup next year,’ Brown declared. ‘This victory has given us the confidence to aim higher.’
Looking ahead, Brown is set for a fresh start with the Newcastle Knights, a move confirmed early in the 2025 season. ‘I’ll admit, I was nervous about leaving Parramatta after 10 years,’ he said. ‘But after five weeks in Newcastle, I’m in love with the town. The warm welcome has been overwhelming—people calling it ‘God’s country’ and making me feel right at home. Plus, with my partner expecting our first child, I’m eager to dive into training early, even if it means skipping some pre-season.’
Now, the question for you: Do the Kiwis have what it takes to dominate the World Cup? Or is their claim of being the best in the world a bit too ambitious? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments—this debate is far from over.
