Tom Martin to Join Ireland Squad for World Cup
The veteran player will represent Ireland as the team prepares for their opening World Cup match on October 30.
Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Other Sports
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Tom Martin has been named to the Ireland wheelchair rugby league squad for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup. The team is scheduled to face the USA on October 30 at the WIN Entertainment Centre in New South Wales.
Why it matters
Martin brings significant experience to the national team as the squad looks to navigate a competitive group stage. Success in the tournament requires a top-two finish in the group to advance to the semi-finals.
Tom Martin began his wheelchair rugby league career in 2013 and joined the Bradford Bulls in 2026. He enters this World Cup as the longest-serving player for Rugby League Ireland.
The players
Tom Martin
He is the longest-serving player for Rugby League Ireland and currently plays club rugby for the Bradford Bulls.
Rugby League Ireland
This is the governing body responsible for the development and international representation of rugby league in Ireland.
Bradford Bulls
This is a professional rugby league club based in Bradford, England, that competes in high-level domestic leagues.
Halifax Panthers
This is a professional rugby league club where Martin previously played and achieved a notable treble championship.
The details
Martin previously played for Halifax, where he secured a treble victory with the club. He now prepares to represent his country in group stage matches against Wales and England alongside the tournament opener against the USA.
Timeline
Tom Martin started playing wheelchair rugby league in 2013.
Tom Martin joined the Bradford Bulls in 2026.
Ireland plays the USA in their opening World Cup game on October 30, 2026.
Season Trajectory
The inclusion of veteran talent like Martin is a critical strategic move as Ireland competes within the structure of the Rugby League World Cup. His performance will directly influence the team's ability to secure a top-two finish and advance to the semi-finals.
Ireland faces a rigid qualification path where only the top two teams in their group progress to the semi-finals. Fans tracking the standings should monitor the outcome of the opening match on October 30 to gauge the team's potential for tournament advancement.
The takeaway
Martin's lengthy tenure highlights the importance of veteran leadership in international wheelchair rugby league. His transition to the national squad serves as a prime example of how club-level performance influences international roster selections.
Further reading
For more updates on international competition rosters and results, visit Other Sports.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Telegraph and Argus.
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