Amazing six year unbeaten run keeps side number one in the world

As the IRL confirm the new world rankings, unsurprisingly the Jillaroos retain first place in the Women’s rankings after winning a third consecutive final.

The Jillaroos extended their unbeaten run since 2016 to 13 Tests as they clinched a third consecutive World Cup final victory with an emphatic 54-4 defeat of arch rivals New Zealand at Old Trafford

Jillaroos coach Brad Donald said: “We are ecstatic to still be in No.1.

“Back in 2016 the group came together and those players were the ones who said they wanted the team to be the best in the world; to put the focus on women’s rugby league and help grow a domestic competition in Australia, which we did in 2018.

“As we see the emergence of the NRLW, the great depth of players and the participation rates from under 6s to open age women it is a credit to all involved in growing the game.”

The Kiwi Ferns remain second, ahead of World Cup semi-finalists England and Papua New Guinea, and France – the same order as those nations entered the tournament.

IRL chair Troy Grant said: “On behalf of the IRL I would like to congratulate the Australian men’s and women’s teams and the England wheelchair team.

“All three teams proved they are the best in their discipline with unbeaten records at the recently completed World Cup in England, culminating in victory in their finals at Old Trafford and Manchester Central.

“In the case of England, they also overcame France – the previous No.1 ranked wheelchair team – in a mid-season Test before again triumphing against the defending world champions in the World Cup final.

“For the Kangaroos and Jillaroos, the World Cup marked a welcome return to the international arena after a hiatus since 2019 due to COVID restrictions and fans look forward to seeing the world champions in action in 2023.

“Congratulations to the other teams who have risen up the IRL World Rankings, including Samoa, whose run to the men’s World Cup final sparked remarkable scenes around the world”.