New Zealand sets the tone for Rugby League World Cup semifinal against Australia with FIERCE Haka

New Zealand have drawn the battle lines early in the Rugby League World Cup semi-final against Australia with an intense haka that saw the players march right up to the Kangaroos.

The traditional haka is designed to intimidate and the Kiwis made sure of that by storming right up under the noses of the Aussies in the lead-up to kick off.

New Zealand players perform a Haka before the start of the 2021 Rugby League World Cup men’s semi-final match between Australia and New Zealan

The Kangaroos players stood in a crescent formation and stared down their opposition as they performed their traditional war cry.

Then, in bizarre scenes, New Zealand hooker Brandon Smith offered his former Melbourne Storm teammate and Kangaroos counterpart Harry Grant a warm embrace.

The pair hugged it out and both sides went back to their respective sides of the field to prepare for battle. 

Brandon Smith gave his old Melbourne Storm teammate Harry Grant a cheeky hug after the Haka

‘I’m not sure oppos are supposed to hug after a haka but it had me a bit teary nonetheless,’ one fan posted.

‘INTENSE Haka from @NZRL_Kiwis. Last one of the tournament or one more to come?’ another fan asked.

The winner of this semi-final will meet the winner of the clash between England and Samoa to be played overnight.