England face Wales, France and Lebanon in World Cup Nines
Monday 22 July 2019 13:17, UK
England have been drawn in the same group as Wales, France and Lebanon for the inaugural Downer World Cup Nines in Sydney on October 18 and 19.
The draw was made at the tournament launch at Parramatta Town Hall, where a raft of new rules were revealed including the introduction of a five-point try.
England and Wales have been drawn in Group B, with Group A comprising Australia, New Zealand, PNG and USA. Pacific nations Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and Cook Islands were placed in Group C.
The two highest-placed teams from Group A will go through to the semi-finals, alongside the winners of Groups B and C.
NRL chief executive Todd Greenberg said the pools were chosen to ensure exciting match-ups between traditional rivals.
"The World Cup Nines will feature the most exciting players to watch in the game, representing their nations and their cultures," Greenberg said.
"It will be a festival of rugby league and the fast-paced, frenetic nature of Nines will be fantastic to watch.
"This is rugby league rebooted - a unique and exciting way to showcase our wonderful athletes."
The two highest-placed teams from the women's pool, which features Australia, New Zealand, England and PNG, will play in the final.
