Ashley Klein among referees appointed for Rugby League World Cup opening week

The Rugby League World Cup referee appointments for Week 1 have been announced. Ashley Klein returns after his absence from the NRL grand final. Liam Moore will officiate the women's match between Papua New Guinea and France, while Chris Kendall referees the men's match between the Cook Islands and Fiji. The majority of games in the first week will be managed by NRL officials, including Adam Gee, who will oversee Australia vs New Zealand. Other appointed officials include Grant Atkins, Gerard Sutton, Belinda Sharpe, and Kasey Badger. The tournament kicks off this weekend.

• 7:08 AMZero Tackle NRL — Half of English duo snubbed, Klein returns: Rugby League World Cup referee appointments, Week 1