Tonga has surged to fourth place in the international rugby league world rankings after a strong Pacific Championships performance under Kristian Woolf. The team’s victory over New Zealand secured their rise, overtaking rivals Samoa.
Papua New Guinea also climbed to sixth following their Pacific Bowl triumph. Australia retained the top spot with their Pacific Championship title, while England narrowed the gap with second-placed New Zealand after victories over France and Samoa.
IRL Chair Troy Grant said, “There has been more international matches played this year than in any other year in the history of rugby league.” He praised the growing quality and viewership of the sport.
In women’s rugby league, Australia remains number one after their Pacific Cup win. Samoa made significant progress, jumping 11 places, while New Zealand and England are ranked second and third, respectively. Tonga’s women team is in 15th place.
England also leads the wheelchair rugby rankings, with France close behind.