Australia are bracing themselves for a good old fashioned Kiwi ambush in today's World Cup opening Pool encounter as the Steve Matai is one of the most feared players in Rugby League code.

The 24 year-old centre said he is ready to pass on any tricks he learnt while playing for Manly in an attempt to bring down reigning Champs Australia.

Coach Ricky Stuart has named a 17-man team including four who will be debuting tonight.

Australia will be taking on neighbors at 9pm.

In the other match at 6.25pm, Scotland and France who are pooled with Fiji will face off in the opening Pool 2 encounter with France to take on Fiji next Saturday.

Last night, England held off a courageous Papua New Guinea 32-22.