A statement from the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) confirmed the two countries “will not compete in a 2021 World Cup because of player welfare and safety concerns”. “A further statement will be made in due course.”Australia celebrate after thier victory over England in the 2017 World Cup final. International Rugby League released a statement from it's chairman Troy Grant condemning the Aussies' and Kiwis' refusal to take part. "They have expressed to me that they feel their own personal choice to participate or not in the world cup has been taken from them. “The obvious question being asked of us is why rugby league players are not able to make the same sacrifices as players from other sports?

Source: Express July 22, 2021 08:03 UTC