Brad and Kiana Takairangi are set to make history as they captain the Cook Islands Aitu and Moana teams during the Pacific Championships double-header against Fiji on Saturday. This marks the first occasion that a brother-sister pairing has simultaneously led their country’s men’s and women’s teams.
Kiana will take the helm for the Moana, while Brad will lead the Aitu. They qualify for this honor through their father, Louis Takairangi.
Kiana, who played a key role in Newcastle’s 2022 NRLW premiership-winning team, expressed her excitement about her inaugural captaincy. Both teams are eager for victories to bolster their chances of qualification, with the Aitu aiming to enhance the reputation of their small nation and to encourage more players to represent the Cook Islands.