SportThe GuardianMen’s Rugby League World Cup 2026: group-by-group preview
The Rugby League World Cup kicks off this week with a new format, and New Zealand are tipped to upset hosts Australia and take the title.
Australia and New Zealand are the main contenders on home soil while the pressure is on England straight away in new format
The Rugby League World Cup returns this week with a new group format, with ten nations competing for four semi-final spots.
Australia go in as favourites but are missing injured star Nathan Cleary, while New Zealand, coached by Stacey Jones, are tipped by some as genuine title contenders.
Australia open against New Zealand on Thursday in what shapes as the tournament's most anticipated early clash, with both sides capable of winning the whole thing.
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