Women's Rugby League World Cup shapes as tighest yet as gap closes on hosts Australia | Megan Maurice

The women’s Rugby League World Cup is shaping up as the tightest yet, with the gap closing behind three-time champions the Jillaroos. Although Australia’s side defends its 2022 title after beating New Zealand 54-4 in the final, New Zealand and England are viewed as the most likely challengers. The tournament will include eight teams: five returnees from 2022—Australia, New Zealand, England, Papua New Guinea and France—while Fiji and Wales debut and Samoa returns for the first time since 2003. The Jillaroos’ edge comes from established combinations, including eight Roosters players and 13 NSW Sky Blues contributors, alongside major NRLW growth worldwide.