Brad and Kiana Takairangi are set to make history as they captained the Cook Islands Aitu and Moana teams in the Pacific Championships double-header against Fiji on Saturday. This marks the first time that a brother-sister duo has simultaneously led their nation’s men’s and women’s teams.
Kiana will take on the role of captain for the Moana, while Brad will lead the Aitu. Their eligibility for the teams comes through their father, Louis Takairangi.
Kiana, who was part of Newcastle’s NRLW premiership-winning team in 2022, expressed her enthusiasm for her first captaincy opportunity. Both teams are in need of victories to keep their qualification hopes alive, with the Aitu aiming to earn respect for their small nation and encourage more players to represent the Cook Islands.