League: NRL Sport: Rugby Country: Australia Category: Playoffs

Wilkin criticizes Rugby League World Cup format as England face early exit

Sky Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Oct 30, 2026, 3:25 PM

Last updated Oct 30, 2026

Wilkin criticizes Rugby League World Cup format as England face early exit

Summary

Jon Wilkin of Sky Sports has labeled the Rugby League World Cup format as 'fundamentally flawed' after England's 34-12 victory over Papua New Guinea. Despite the win, England's qualification for the knockout stages hinges on Tonga defeating Samoa by more than 46 points. The new tournament structure, reduced from 16 to 10 teams, has led to increased stakes in every match, according to Wilkin. England, drawn in Pool B and C, faced a significant challenge after a prior loss to Tonga. The outcome of Tonga's upcoming match against Samoa on Sunday will determine England's fate in the competition.

Source Links

Sky Sports

Key Details

•England needs Tonga to win against Samoa by more than 46 points.
•The tournament format was changed from 16 teams to 10.
•England lost their first match to Tonga, complicating their chances.
•Wilkin assesses the logistical challenges faced by the England team.
•Upcoming Tonga vs. Samoa match is crucial for England's qualification.

Latest Updates

3:25 PMSky Sports — Wilkin: Rugby League World Cup format 'fundamentally flawed'

What they're saying

"
Sky Sports' Jon Wilkin believes the Rugby League World Cup format is 'fundamentally flawed' after England were left on the brink of their first group-stage exit in the tournament's history.
— Sky Sports

Related Teams & Leagues

NRL Rugby