In a thrilling match in Hamilton, the Māori All Stars and Indigenous All Stars played to a 16-all draw, with dramatic moments in the final minutes that left fans on the edge of their seats. Indigenous All Stars' star player Braydon Trindall was forced to leave the field just before the finish due to injury, which altered the dynamics of the game significantly. With the halfback Te Maire Martin also unable to play, it was a tense finish when Māori hooker Zach Dockar-Clay prepared for a potential game-winning field goal attempt but was intercepted in the dying moments by Brent Woolf of the Indigenous side, securing a tie for the team.

This match marked the second time the annual Indigenous All Stars clash ended in a draw, mirroring the outcome of the 2021 edition, resulting in the Māori All Stars retaining the trophy. The thrilling nature of the game underlined its importance as a showcase of Indigenous talent in rugby league, along with the fervent support from the fans that contribute to the event's atmosphere. Players from both sides displayed exceptional skills and determination, representing not only their teams but also their respective cultures and heritage.

The continuing tradition of the Indigenous All Stars match emphasizes the recognition of Māori and Indigenous Australians in the sport, and how such events can foster community spirit and unity. While the Indigenous team captured the imagination with their exciting plays and near misses, the trophy remains with the Māori All Stars, who will prepare for future competitions, potentially igniting a renewed rivalry as both teams strive for victory in the next iteration of this significant annual event.