Players criticize Rugby League World Cup format after one-sided results

Scotland winger Lachlan Walmsley and Italy's Ryan King have voiced their frustration over the reduced format of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, where only 10 teams are participating compared to 16 in 2022. The exclusion of six nations — Wales, Scotland, Italy, Greece, Jamaica, and Ireland — has been called into question following several blowout matches. England's 82-0 win over France particularly angered Walmsley, who lamented the lack of competition from traditional nations. King echoed this sentiment, highlighting missed opportunities for players from lesser-known countries to showcase their talents. England coach Brian McDermott has also expressed concerns regarding the tournament's pool format, suggesting it may be detrimental to the game's international growth.

• 10:42 PMZero Tackle NRL — “It’s a joke”: Rugby League World Cup format blasted by exiled nations