Rugby League World Cup begins with Tonga, England, and Samoa competing for semi-final spots

The Rugby League World Cup is set to commence with ten nations competing across Australia, Papua New Guinea, and New Zealand. The tournament features a unique format where only four teams will advance to the semi-finals, with no quarter-final stage.

In Pool B, England, Samoa, and Lebanon will compete in a cross-pool structure against teams from Pool C (Tonga, Papua New Guinea, and France). The top two teams from the combined table will secure semi-final spots. Mate Ma’a Tonga is scheduled to open their campaign against England in Perth on October 17, followed by matches against Lebanon and Samoa.

Match officials have been confirmed for key fixtures, including NRL-based referee Gerard Sutton for the England versus Tonga match. Meanwhile, the Samoan squad has been announced, featuring NRL players such as Spencer Leniu, Jarome Luai, and Brian To’o, though they will be without Payne Haas and Terrell May.