PNG improves rankings

PAPUA New Guinea are the big movers in the men’s and women’s rugby league world rankings.
The Kumuls have been recognised for their progress in the past 12 months, which culminated in the weekend’s 28-10 defeat of Great Britain, which vaulted them from 10th to sixth place.
The Orchids, who won their Test against England in Port Moresby last Saturday, climbed from sixth position to fourth.
Kumuls coach Michael Marum sees the rise up the rankings as a natural part of their journey, saying: “PNG climbing from 10th to sixth spot is really good for us. We can only go higher with more international fixtures.”
Orchids coach Bagelo Solien said: “Going up two spots from sixth to fourth is pleasing after two test matches and we can only get better from here. It is good for the women’s game nationally and internationally.”
Meanwhile, New Zealand have usurped Australia as the top nation in the International Rugby League world rankings after the conclusion of the 2019 season.
The Kiwis have built on their 2018 wins over Australia and England and their recent 2-0 series defeat of Great Britain and victory in the mid-season Oceania Cup Test against Tonga to take the top position from the Kangaroos despite losing to them in Wollongong last month.
Since winning the 2017 World Cup final, Australia have only played four Tests — winning two and losing two.
Tonga remain in fourth spot but their historic triumph against the second-placed Kangaroos earlier this month has closed the gap on England, who now sit in third place in the world ranking.
IRL chief executive officer Nigel Wood congratulated the countries on the rise.
“Firstly, I would like to congratulate New Zealand on achieving their number one position. It is fully deserved based upon their recent excellent performances with four wins from their last five international games,” he said.
“Tonga has possibly been the story of the recent internationals and they deserve all the plaudits that they have received.
“They have certainly cemented their place as a genuine top four-nation and, along with other Pacific nations, throws the competition wide open for Rugby League World Cup 2021.” – NRL