2000 Rugby League World Cup
Encyclopedia
The 2000 Rugby League World Cup (known officially as the Lincoln 2000 World Cup due to sponsorship from Lincoln Financial Group) was the twelfth staging of the Rugby League World Cup
and was held during October and November of that year in Great Britain
, Ireland
and France
. Sixteen national teams competed in four groups of four, playing each other once over three weekly rounds before a series of play-offs culminated in the final between Australia and New Zealand. Tournament favourites Australia defeated New Zealand in the final, claiming their sixth consecutive and ninth total World Cup title. Kangaroos winger Wendell Sailor
was named player of the tournament.
, it was decided to expand the format further, with the number of teams rising from 10 to 16. As before, an Emerging Nations Tournament
was held alongside the main event
.
The millennium World Cup attracted a record sponsorship of over £1 million from Lincoln Financial Group, who had also sponsored Great Britain's Tests against New Zealand the previous autumn.
The 2000 World Cup was not considered a great success. There were too many mismatches in the early stages, and some of the teams lacked credibility. Notably the inclusion of a side representing New Zealand’s Māori population, Aotearoa Māori
, alongside the full New Zealand team
, and a Lebanon side
consisting entirely of Australians of Lebanese origin, led to derisory comments in the media. The tournament's organisers also attracted criticisim regarding marketing and ticketing. Due to these reasons crowds at the tournament were low; also torrential rainstorms and the crisis on Britain’s railways
following the Hatfield rail crash
did not help encourage spectators.
There were however some positives: the tournament returned a profit of more than £2m despite the small crowds it attracted; the French
performed creditably, and attendance for the games held in France
was encouraging. The much-derided Lebanon team also proved the catalyst for domestic competition in that country
.
On the competition side of things, favourites Australia and New Zealand cut a swathe through the tournament, with several dominant performances setting up an obvious final clash. New Zealand
's 49-6 semi-final dispatch of England
, coupled with Australia
only hitting the lead in their semi-final against Wales with 23 minutes remaining, had New Zealand
installed as favourites in some quarters. However, it was Australia
who prevailed in a tense, absorbing finale. Australia
only led 18-12 with 15 minutes remaining, but a glut of possession saw them finish strongly - scoring four late tries to give the appearance of an easy victory.
, the United States
, Morocco
, Canada
, Italy
and Japan
- competed for one available place in the tournament. In the final play-off match the United States lost 62-8 to Lebanon, who were through to their first World Cup.
.
England:
1. Kris Radlinski
, 2. Leon Pryce
, 3. Scott Naylor
, 4. Keith Senior
, 5. Chev Walker
, 6. Tony Smith, 7. Sean Long
8. Harvey Howard
, 9. Paul Rowley
, 10. Stuart Fielden
, 11. Adrian Morley
, 12. Mike Forshaw
, 13. Andy Farrell.
Substitutes: 14. Paul Wellens
, 15. Kevin Sinfield
, 16. Darren Fleary
, 17. Paul Anderson.
Coach: John Kear
Australia:
1. Darren Lockyer
, 2. Mat Rogers
, 3. Ryan Girdler
, 4. Matt Gidley, 5. Wendell Sailor
, 6. Brad Fittler
, 7. Brett Kimmorley
8. Shane Webcke
, 9. Andrew Johns
, 10. Robbie Kearns
, 11. Gorden Tallis
, 12. Bryan Fletcher
, 13. Scott Hill.
Substitutes: 14. Adam MacDougall
, 15. Jason Croker
, 16. Darren Britt
, 17. Jason Stevens
----
Fiji:
1. Lote Tuqiri, 2. Jone Kuraduadua, 3. Waisale Sovatabua
, 4. Eparama Navale, 5. Farasiko Tokarei, 6. Semi Tadulala
, 7. Stephen Smith
8. Kalaveti Tuiabayaba, 9. Tabua Cakacaka
, 10. Freddie Robarts, 11. Etuate Vakatawa, 12. Joe Tamani, 13. Samu Marayawa.
Substitutes: 14. Atunaisa Vunivialu, 15. Josefa Lasagavibau, 16. Amani Takayawa, 17. Peceli Vuniyayawa.
Russia:
1. Robert Iliassov, 2. Mikhail Mitrofanov, 3. Donovan, 4. Craig Cygler, 5. Romanov, 6. Olari, 7. Gavriline
8. Ian Rubin
, 8. Lysenkov, 10. Robert Campbell, 11. Sokolov, 12. Findlay, 13. Joel Rullis.
Substitutes: Kalachkine, Netchaev, Jiltsov, Postnikov.
----
Australians Ben Kennedy
, Trent Barrett
and Nathan Hindmarsh
were selected to make their Kangaroo debuts in this match.
Australia:
1. Darren Lockyer
, 2. Mat Rogers
, 3. Ryan Girdler
, 4. Matt Gidley, 5. Adam MacDougall
, 6. Trent Barrett
, 7. Andrew Johns
, 8. Jason Stevens
, 9. Craig Gower
, 10. Michael Vella
, 11. Ben Kennedy
, 12. Nathan Hindmarsh
, 13. Brad Fittler
.
Substitutes: Scott Hill, Jason Croker
, Robbie Kearns
, Shane Webcke
.
Coach: Chris Anderson
Tries: Rogers 4, Kennedy 2, Barrett, Hindmarsh, MacDougall, Girdler 2, Gidley.
Goals: Rogers 9.
Fiji:
1. Lote Tuqiri, 2. Jone Kuraduadua, 3. Waisale Sovatabua, 4. Navalu, 5. Semi Tadulala
, 6. Smith, 7. Naisoro, 8. Tabua Cakacaka
, 9. Robarts, 10. Vakatawa, 11. Tamani, 12. Marayawa, 13. Vunivalu.
Substitutes: Tokarei, Navugona, Takayawa, Wawavamia.
----
----
----
1. Ritchie Barnett (c), 2. Leslie Vainikolo, 3. Tonie Carroll
, 4. Willie Talau
, 5. Brian Jellick
, 6. Henry Paul
, 7. Stacey Jones
8. Smith, 9. Swain, 10. Pongia, 11. Logan Swann
, 12. Kearney, 13. Wiki.
Substitutes: J. Vagana, Robbie Paul
, Rua, Cayless.
Coach:Frank Endacott
Lebanon:
1. Hazem El Masri
(c), 2. Najarrin, 3. Katrib, 4. Touma, 5. H. Saleh, 6. Stanton, 7. Coorey
8. Maroon, 9. Semrani, 10. Elamad, 11. Chamoun, 12. Khoury, 13. Lichaa.
Substitutes: Salem, Nohra, Tamer, S. El Masri.
----
Wales:
1. Paul Atcheson
, 2. Paul Sterling
, 3. Jason Critchley
, 4. Kris Tassell
, 5. Anthony Sullivan
, 6. Iestyn Harris
(c), 7. Lee Briers
8. Anthony Farrell
, 9. Keiron Cunningham
, 10. Dave Whittle
, 11. Justin Morgan
, 12. Mick Jenkins, 13. Dean Busby
.
Substitutes: Ian Watson
, Wes Davies
, Paul Highton
, Garreth Carvell
.
Cook Islands:
1. Richard Piakura
, 2. Tongia, 3. Steve Berryman
, 4. Kevin Iro
(c), 5. Karl Temata
, 6. Bowen, 7. Joe
8. Tuakuru, 9. Clark, 10. Temu, 11. Kuru, 12. Pau, 13. Anthony Samuels.
Substitutes: Andersson, Lewis, Tere Glassie
, Cook.
----
----
----
----
1. Freddie Banquet, 2. Yancine Dekkiche, 3. Cassin, 4. Dulac, 5. Patrice Benausse, 6. Laurent Frayssinous
, 7. Devechi
8. Rachid Hechiche, 9. Wulf, 10. Teixido, 11. Guisset, 12. Tallec, 13. Jampy.
Substitutes: El Khalouki, Carrasco, Sands, Despin.
Papua New Guinea
1. David Buko, 2. John Wiltshere, 3. Aila, 4. Songoro, 5. Marcus Bai
, 6. Stanley Gene
, 7. Adrian Lam
8. Kahl, 9. Marum, 10. Solbat, 11. Naawi, 12. Mamando, 13. O'Reilly.
Substitutes: Mom, Alex Krewanty, Norman, Mondo.
This was the first match of a double-header in Paris for the opening round.
----
This match formed the second part of the opening round double-header in Paris.
Tonga:
1. Koloi, 2. Fifita Moala
, 3. Tevita Vaikona
, 4. G. Wolfgramm, 5. Lipina Kaufusi, 6. Howlett, 7. W. Wolfgramm
8. Martin Masella
(c), 9. Esau Mann
, 10. Talite Liava'a
, 11. Willie Mason
, 12. Talou, 13. Duane Mann
.
Substitutes: D. Fisi'iahi, Manu, Nelson Lomi
, Kite.
South Africa:
1. Tim O'Shea, 2. Brian Best, 3. Leon Barnard, 4. Johnson, 5. Dames, 6. Conrad Breytenbach, 7. Jamie Bloem
8. Booysen, 9. Skelton, 10. Powell, 11. Rutgerson, 12. De Villiers, 13. Erasmus.
Substitutes: Jennings, Nel, Mulder, Cloete.
Coach: Paul Metete
----
Before the match a statue honouring French rugby league legend, Puig Aubert
was unveiled by the French Rugby League Federation at the stadium.
France:
1. Freddie Banquet, 2. Jean-Marc Garcia, 3. Cassin, 4. Arnaud Dulac, 5. Claude Sirvent, 6. Fabien Devechi, 7. Rinaldi
8. Hechiche, 9. Wulf, 10. Sands, 11. Jerome Guisset
, 12. Tallec, 13. Pascal Jampy
.
Substitutes: Despin, Carrasco, Sort, Teixido.
Tries: Banquet, Sirvent, Dulac, Garcia, Jampy.
Goals: Banquet 4.
Tonga:
1. Koloi, 2. Fifita Moala
, 3. Vaikona, 4. David Fisi'iahi, 5. L. Kaufusi, 6. Howlett, 7. Hifo
8. Martin Masella
(c), 9. E. Mann, 10. Liava'a, 11. Willie Mason
, 21. Kite, 13. D. Mann.
Substitutes: Paul Fisi'iahi, Manu, Nelson Lomi
, A. Masella.
Sin Bin: Lomi (25") for flopping.
----
----
----
Ireland
1. Steve Prescott
, 2. Brian Carney, 3. Michael Withers
, 4. Michael Eagar
, 5. Forster, 6. Tommy Martyn
, 7. Ryan Sheridan
8. O'Connor, 9. Williams, 10. Barrie McDermott
, 11. Chris Joynt
, 12. Campion, 13. Luke Ricketson
Substitutes: Bretherton, Lawless, Barnhill, Southern. Coach: Steve O'Neill
Samoa
1. Loa Milford, 2. Brian Leauma
, 3. Anthony Swann
, 4. Gulavao, 5. Francis Meli
, 6. Simon Geros
, 7. Willie Swann
8. Puletua, 9. Monty Betham
, 10. Seu Seu, 11. Solomona, 12. Fred Peterson, 13. Willie Poching
Substitutes: Tatupu, Kololo, Leafa, Faafili.
----
Scotland: 1. Lee Penny
, 2. Matt Daylight
, 3. Graham Mackay
, 4. Geoff Bell
, 5. Lee Gilmour
, 6. Andrew Purcell
, 7. Richard Horne
8. Heckenberg, 9. Russell, 10. Laughton, 11. Scott Logan
, 12. Cram, 13. Adrian Vowles
.
Substitutes: David Maiden
, Matt Crowther
, Wayne McDonald
, Shaw.
Coach: Shaun McRae
Sin Bin: McDonald (40).
New Zealand Maoris: 1. Clinton Toopi
, 2. Manuell, 3. Kohe-Love, 4. David Kidwell
, 5. Sean Hoppe
, 6. Gene Ngamu
, 7. H. Te Rangi
8. Rauhihi, 9. Perenara, 10. Terry Hermansson
, 11. Koopu, 12. Tyran Smith
, 13. Tawera Nikau
.
Substitutes: Martin Moana
, Leuluai, Nahi, Reihana.
Sin Bin: Nikau (40).
----
Scotland's loose forward, Adrian Vowles
was sent to the sin bin mid-way through the second half for repeated off-side infringements
Ireland:
1. Steve Prescott
, 2. Brian Carney, 3. Martyn, 4. Eagar, 5. Herron, 6. Michael Withers
, 7. Ryan Sheridan
8. O'Connor, 9. Lawless, 10. McDermott, 11. Joynt, 12. Kevin Campion
, 13. Luke Ricketson
.
Substitutes: Williams, Mathiou, Barnhill, Bradbury.
Scotland: 1. Danny Arnold
, 2. Matt Daylight
, 3. Lee Gilmour
, 4. Bell, 5. Matt Crowther
, 6. Horne, 7. Scott Rhodes
8. Heckenberg, 9. Russell, 10. Laughton, 11. Logan, 12. Cram, 13. Adrian Vowles
.
Substitutes: Maiden, Graham, McDonald, Shaw.
----
----
----
----
----
----
Wales became the first team in twelve months to score more than two tries against Australia.
In a high-scoring final at Old Trafford, the Kangaroos overwhelmed the spirited challenge of their Trans-Tasman
opponents, who had been tipped by some to cause an upset. Wendell Sailor put in a strong performance with two great tries and Mat Rogers had a near-perfect afternoon with the boot as the Australians ran out 40-12 winners and were crowned world champions for a sixth successive time.
Australia stepped on the gas from the kick-off, tearing into New Zealand at every opportunity. But the Kiwi defence stood firm, although they almost conceded after 22 minutes. Sailor looked to have scored the first try
of the game after a burst down the right wing only for the video official to rule that Stephen Kearney had prevented the Brisbane Broncos player from grounding the ball. The look of disbelief on Sailor's face was there for everyone to see, but he clearly did not let the decision affect his game. Three minutes later, his grubber kick was pounced on by Matt Gidley, who beat Kearney to the touch down. Rogers, assuming the kicking duties in place of the injured Ryan Girdler
, landed the conversion to open up a 6-0 lead. New Zealand had few opportunities to go on the offensive, although they finished the first half strongly. But it was the favourites Australia who looked in control and deservedly went into the break in front.
The start of the second half was held up by the appearance of a male streaker. When play finally got under way, the tackles were just as ferocious as ever, neither side giving an inch. However Australia gained the edge when Brad Fittler split the defence with a pass to Nathan Hindmarsh, who scored from close range, bringing the score to 10-0. Rogers converted to make it 12-0. New Zealand were not about to throw in the towel and hit back almost immediately. Lesley Vainikolo pounced on a loose ball to dive over on 49 minutes, although the decision was again made by the video referee. When Henry Paul landed the conversion, the deficit was back down to six points. Soon after, Australian Halfback, Brett Kimmorley, made a break down the right before feeding the ball inside to fullback Darren Lockyer, who crossed for another try. Rogers' third successful kick made it 18-6 to the defending champions. However, the Kiwis quickly struck back when Tonie Carroll beat several Australian defenders to score. Henry Paul's conversion made it 18-12.
New Zealand then made several cruical errors and Australia were able to capitalise. Sailor grabbed two tries in the space of five minutes to take his tally for the tournament to 10. The first of them came on 63 minutes courtesy of a reverse pass from Gidley. Rogers missed the second of the two quick conversions. Skipper Fittler then breached the New Zealand defence on 73 minutes to score his first try of the final which was converted by Rogers. Substitute Trent Barrett then finished the scoring, with a try that was converted by Rogers.
Rugby League World Cup
The Rugby League World Cup is an international rugby league competition contested by members of the Rugby League International Federation . It has been held nearly once every 4 years on average since its inaugural tournament in France in 1954...
and was held during October and November of that year in Great Britain
Great Britain
Great Britain or Britain is an island situated to the northwest of Continental Europe. It is the ninth largest island in the world, and the largest European island, as well as the largest of the British Isles...
, Ireland
Ireland
Ireland is an island to the northwest of continental Europe. It is the third-largest island in Europe and the twentieth-largest island on Earth...
and France
France
The French Republic , The French Republic , The French Republic , (commonly known as France , is a unitary semi-presidential republic in Western Europe with several overseas territories and islands located on other continents and in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Metropolitan France...
. Sixteen national teams competed in four groups of four, playing each other once over three weekly rounds before a series of play-offs culminated in the final between Australia and New Zealand. Tournament favourites Australia defeated New Zealand in the final, claiming their sixth consecutive and ninth total World Cup title. Kangaroos winger Wendell Sailor
Wendell Sailor
Wendell Jermaine Sailor is an Australian former professional rugby football player who represented his country in both rugby league and rugby union – a dual code international. He is an Australian Torres Strait Islander.Sailor's large frame and bullocking style changed the way wingers played rugby...
was named player of the tournament.
Summary
Building on the previous successful competition1995 Rugby League World Cup
The 1995 Rugby League World Cup was held during October in the United Kingdom. It was the eleventh staging of the Rugby League World Cup and was marketed as the Halifax Centenary World Cup, reflecting the tournament's sponsorship and the fact that 1995 marked the 100th birthday of the sport...
, it was decided to expand the format further, with the number of teams rising from 10 to 16. As before, an Emerging Nations Tournament
Rugby League Emerging Nations Tournament
In 1995 and 2000, the Rugby League International Federation held an Emerging Nations Tournament alongside the Rugby League World Cup. The competition was designed to allow teams who have failed to qualify for the World Cup proper a chance to play on the international stage....
was held alongside the main event
2000 Rugby League Emerging Nations Tournament
The 2000 Rugby League Emerging Nations Tournament was held alongside the 2000 Rugby League World Cup. As with the World Cup, the competition suffered from poor attendances in comparison to the previous event...
.
The millennium World Cup attracted a record sponsorship of over £1 million from Lincoln Financial Group, who had also sponsored Great Britain's Tests against New Zealand the previous autumn.
The 2000 World Cup was not considered a great success. There were too many mismatches in the early stages, and some of the teams lacked credibility. Notably the inclusion of a side representing New Zealand’s Māori population, Aotearoa Māori
New Zealand Maori rugby league team
-See also:* New Zealand national rugby league team* New Zealand Māori rugby union team* New Zealand Māori cricket team-External links:* Google Books...
, alongside the full New Zealand team
New Zealand national rugby league team
The New Zealand national rugby league team has represented New Zealand in rugby league football since intercontinental competition began for the sport in 1907. Administered by the New Zealand Rugby League, they are commonly known as the Kiwis, after the native bird of that name...
, and a Lebanon side
Lebanon national rugby league team
The Lebanon national rugby league team is the representative side of Lebanon in rugby league football. They are nicknamed "The Cedars" after the Lebanon Cedar tree, which is also on the Lebanese flag. The team has been participating in international competition since 1998 and has quickly became one...
consisting entirely of Australians of Lebanese origin, led to derisory comments in the media. The tournament's organisers also attracted criticisim regarding marketing and ticketing. Due to these reasons crowds at the tournament were low; also torrential rainstorms and the crisis on Britain’s railways
Rail transport in Great Britain
The railway system in Great Britain is the oldest in the world, with the world's first locomotive-hauled public railway opening in 1825. As of 2010, it consists of of standard gauge lines , of which are electrified. These lines range from single to double, triple, quadruple track and up to twelve...
following the Hatfield rail crash
Hatfield rail crash
The Hatfield rail crash was a railway accident on 17 October 2000, at Hatfield, Hertfordshire, UK. Although the accident killed fewer than other accidents, Hatfield exposed the major stewardship shortcomings of the privatised national railway infrastructure company Railtrack and the failings of...
did not help encourage spectators.
There were however some positives: the tournament returned a profit of more than £2m despite the small crowds it attracted; the French
France national rugby league team
The France national rugby league team represent France in international rugby league tournaments. They are also sometimes referred to as "Les Tricolores" or more commonly "Les Chanticleers"...
performed creditably, and attendance for the games held in France
France
The French Republic , The French Republic , The French Republic , (commonly known as France , is a unitary semi-presidential republic in Western Europe with several overseas territories and islands located on other continents and in the Indian, Pacific, and Atlantic oceans. Metropolitan France...
was encouraging. The much-derided Lebanon team also proved the catalyst for domestic competition in that country
Lebanon
Lebanon , officially the Republic of LebanonRepublic of Lebanon is the most common term used by Lebanese government agencies. The term Lebanese Republic, a literal translation of the official Arabic and French names that is not used in today's world. Arabic is the most common language spoken among...
.
On the competition side of things, favourites Australia and New Zealand cut a swathe through the tournament, with several dominant performances setting up an obvious final clash. New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
's 49-6 semi-final dispatch of England
England
England is a country that is part of the United Kingdom. It shares land borders with Scotland to the north and Wales to the west; the Irish Sea is to the north west, the Celtic Sea to the south west, with the North Sea to the east and the English Channel to the south separating it from continental...
, coupled with Australia
Australia
Australia , officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area...
only hitting the lead in their semi-final against Wales with 23 minutes remaining, had New Zealand
New Zealand
New Zealand is an island country in the south-western Pacific Ocean comprising two main landmasses and numerous smaller islands. The country is situated some east of Australia across the Tasman Sea, and roughly south of the Pacific island nations of New Caledonia, Fiji, and Tonga...
installed as favourites in some quarters. However, it was Australia
Australia
Australia , officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area...
who prevailed in a tense, absorbing finale. Australia
Australia
Australia , officially the Commonwealth of Australia, is a country in the Southern Hemisphere comprising the mainland of the Australian continent, the island of Tasmania, and numerous smaller islands in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. It is the world's sixth-largest country by total area...
only led 18-12 with 15 minutes remaining, but a glut of possession saw them finish strongly - scoring four late tries to give the appearance of an easy victory.
Qualifying
Six countries - LebanonLebanon national rugby league team
The Lebanon national rugby league team is the representative side of Lebanon in rugby league football. They are nicknamed "The Cedars" after the Lebanon Cedar tree, which is also on the Lebanese flag. The team has been participating in international competition since 1998 and has quickly became one...
, the United States
United States national rugby league team
-2008 & 2013 Rugby League World Cup Qualifying:In October 2006, The Tomahawks were to participate in a four team Atlantic qualifying pool for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup, but South Africa and the West Indies withdrew. As a result, The Atlantic qualifying pool was reduced to a single game...
, Morocco
Morocco national rugby league team
-Results:* Lebanon def. Morocco 72-4 * Morocco def. Belgium 46-12 * Morocco def. Catalonia 29-6 * Morocco def. Italy 32-10 * Morocco def. Catalonia 62-12...
, Canada
Canada national rugby league team
The Canada national rugby league team represents Canada in international rugby league football tournaments.-1987-2000:Rugby league was re-introduced to Canada at an amateur level in the late 1980s and early 1990s, when a short-lived 4-team domestic competition, known as the Tri-Counties Rugby...
, Italy
Italy national rugby league team
The Italy national rugby league team represents Italy in international rugby league football. The team dates back from the 1950s after the formation of a domestic competition in the country, and in the 1960s they played Australia, France and a number of English teams.The game disappeared in Italy...
and Japan
Japan national rugby league team
The Japan national rugby league team represents Japan in rugby league football. Japan has been playing international competition since 1994. A regular domestic amateur competition has been held in Japan for several years .-History:Rugby league was founded in Japan in 1993 by former Australian first...
- competed for one available place in the tournament. In the final play-off match the United States lost 62-8 to Lebanon, who were through to their first World Cup.
Teams
- Australia - coached by Chris Anderson and captained by Brad FittlerBrad FittlerBradley Scott "Freddie" Fittler AM is an Australian professional rugby league football coach and former player. The current coach of NSW City team in the City vs. Country clash, he coached in the NRL for the Sydney Roosters between 2007 and 2009. As a player, Fittler captained both New South Wales...
- Cook IslandsCook Islands national rugby league team-2008 World Cup Qualifying:See 2008 Rugby League World Cup qualifyingThe Cook Islands played Fiji, Tonga and Samoa in the Pacific pool of Qualifying for the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. Fiji and Tonga qualified, and Samoa earned a second chance in the repecharge round...
- coached by Stan MartinStan Martin (rugby league)Stan Martin is a New Zealand rugby league coach and former player who coached the Cook Islands in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:A Richmond Bulldogs player in the Auckland Rugby League competition, Martin won the Rothville Trophy in 1980 as the Premier One player of the year...
and captained by Kevin IroKevin IroKevin Leslie Iro is a former professional rugby league international footballer who has representated both New Zealand and the Cook Islands. In his domestic career, his achievements include playing in the Challenge Cup final for Leeds, Wigan and St. Helens.Iro is the younger brother of New Zealand... - EnglandEngland national rugby league teamThe England national rugby league team represent England in international rugby league football tournaments. The team has now seen a revival, having largely formed from the Great Britain team, who also represented Wales, Scotland and Ireland. The team is run under the auspices of the Rugby Football...
- coached by John KearJohn KearJohn Kear is an English rugby league coach and former rugby league player. Kear is currently the coach of Batley Bulldogs...
and captained by Andy Farrell - FijiFiji national rugby league team-Competitions:Fiji have participated in:*Pacific Cup *World Cup *World Sevens *Superleague World Nines *Superleague Oceania Tournament *Pacific Rim Competition -Results:...
- coached by Don Furner, Sr. and captained by Lote Tuqiri - FranceFrance national rugby league teamThe France national rugby league team represent France in international rugby league tournaments. They are also sometimes referred to as "Les Tricolores" or more commonly "Les Chanticleers"...
- coached by Gilles DumasGilles DumasGilles Dumas is the coach of the Toulouse Olympique rugby league club. He is a former French international player . He previously coached the French team of Saint Gaudens in Elite 1 and the French national team . he has also been the manager of the French national team more recently , in particular...
and captained by Fabien Devecchi - IrelandIreland national rugby league teamThe Ireland national rugby league team, known as the Wolfhounds, represent the island of Ireland in rugby league football. The team is organized by Rugby League Ireland and are accredited as an affiliate member of the Rugby League International Federation...
- coached by Ralph RimmerRalph RimmerRalph Rimmer is a former Irish rugby league player, administrator and coach of the Ireland national rugby league team. He is currently the managing director of the Galpharm Stadium, a director at Huddersfield Giants and the Chief Operating Officer for the Rugby Football...
and captained by Terry O'ConnorTerry O'Connor (rugby league)Terry O'Connor is an English former rugby league footballer. His position was , or .-Career:A native of Widnes, O'Connor was picked up from local Widnes side St Maries after also playing for Widnes Tigers. He was a former barla international and toured NZ with them in 1991... - LebanonLebanon national rugby league teamThe Lebanon national rugby league team is the representative side of Lebanon in rugby league football. They are nicknamed "The Cedars" after the Lebanon Cedar tree, which is also on the Lebanese flag. The team has been participating in international competition since 1998 and has quickly became one...
- coached by John EliasJohn Elias (rugby league)John Elias is an Australian former rugby league footballer and coach. During the 1980s and 90s he played for clubs in Sydney, Brisbane, England and France where he also coached, and also played and coached for the Lebanon national team.-Biography:...
and captained by Darren Marroon - New ZealandNew Zealand national rugby league teamThe New Zealand national rugby league team has represented New Zealand in rugby league football since intercontinental competition began for the sport in 1907. Administered by the New Zealand Rugby League, they are commonly known as the Kiwis, after the native bird of that name...
- coached by Frank EndacottFrank EndacottFrank Morris Endacott, ONZM is a retired rugby league player and coach from New Zealand. His son, Shane, also played rugby league.-Playing career:Endacott played for Addington and Hornby in the Canterbury Rugby League competition...
and captained by Richie BarnettRichie BarnettRichie Barnett is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and2000s who represented the New Zealand Kiwis twelve times.-Playing career:... - NZ MāoriNew Zealand Maori rugby league team-See also:* New Zealand national rugby league team* New Zealand Māori rugby union team* New Zealand Māori cricket team-External links:* Google Books...
- coached by Cameron Bell and captained by Tawera NikauTawera NikauTawera Nuieia Nikau is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative forward, he played club football at a number of different clubs in New Zealand, England and Australia during his career, including the Melbourne Storm's victory... - Papua New GuineaPapua New Guinea national rugby league teamThe Papua New Guinea national rugby league team represents Papua New Guinea internationally in the sport of rugby league football.In Papua New Guinea, Rugby league is highly popular and is regarded as the country’s national sport. The national side are known as the Kumuls...
- coached by Bob Bennett and captained by Adrian LamAdrian LamAdrian Lam is an Australian rugby league football coach and former international player. He is the head coach of the under 20 St George Dragons squad National Rugby League team he signed with them in 2010 and will combine with coaching legend Wayne Bennett.He is a former Papua New Guinea rugby... - RussiaRussia national rugby league team-2008 World Cup Qualifying:In 2006 Russia were involved in Europe Round One, defeating Netherlands national rugby league team and Serbia national rugby league team to finish second and keep their World Cup dream alive. They then went through to Europe Round Two in Europe Pool Two with Ireland and...
- coached by Evgeniy Klebanov and captained by Ian RubinIan RubinIan Rubin is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s. He played the majority of his professional career for both the Sydney clubs in the National Rugby League the Sydney Roosters and the South Sydney Rabbitohs... - SamoaSamoa national rugby league team-Notable Players & Coaches:* John Ackland * Steve Kaiser Coach 1990 - 1994* Steve Kaiser 1986* Afi Ah Koui 1986* Andrew Ah Koui 1986* George Apelu 1986* Fa'ausu Afoa circa-1995* Wing Afoa 1990 - 1994* Isaak Ah Mau circa-2006...
- coached by Darrell WilliamsDarrell WilliamsDarrell Christopher Williams is a New Zealand rugby league selector and NRL judiciary member and a former footballer and coach.-Playing career:...
and captained by Willie PochingWillie PochingWillie Poching is a New Zealand professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the current coach of Samoa national team and assistant coach of English Super League club Warrington Wolves... - ScotlandScotland national rugby league teamThe Scotland national rugby league team represent Scotland in international rugby league football tournaments. The team is run under the auspices of the Scotland Rugby League, and are nicknamed The Bravehearts. Scotland are not regarded as a test nation...
- coached by Shaun McRaeShaun McRaeShaun McRae is a rugby league coach, who is currently the director of rugby at hull fc after a spell with the Salford City Reds.-Career:...
and captained by Andrew PurcellAndrew PurcellAndrew Purcell is a former rugby league player.Purcell was a Scotland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.20 th may-External links:**... - South AfricaSouth Africa national rugby league teamThe South Africa national rugby league team are a growing force in rugby league football, South Africa competes sporadically against other international nations because of their location and their absence from any major international competitions. They are ranked twenty-third in the world...
- coached by Paul MatetePaul MatetePaul Matete is a New Zealand former rugby league player and coach who represented his country in the 1975 World Cup.-Playing career:A player for Otahuhu in the Auckland Rugby League competition, Matete was an Auckland representative. He won the Tetley Trophy in 1971 as the Auckland Rugby League's...
and captained by Jamie BloemJamie BloemJamie Bloem is a rugby league referee and former dual-code rugby player who played international rugby league for South Africa and Scotland.-Rugby league:... - TongaTonga national rugby league teamThe Tonga national rugby league team is a national sporting side, representing Tonga in rugby league football. Rugby league is a popular sport in Tonga, and the national team has become one of the best performed nations in the world...
- coached by Murray HurstMurray Hurst-Early life:Hurst was born in Surat on a sheep and cattle property in the south west corner of Queensland and attended Marist Brothers College at Ashgrove in Brisbane...
and captained by Martin MasellaMartin MasellaMartin Masella is a former rugby league player.Martin Masella was a Tonga international and played at the 1995 and captained his country in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup... - WalesWales national rugby league teamThe Wales national rugby league team represent Wales in international rugby league football matches. Currently the team is seventh in the RLIF World Rankings. The team were run under the auspices of the Rugby Football League, but an independent body, Wales Rugby League, now runs the team from...
- coached by Clive GriffithsClive Griffiths (rugby)Clive Ronald Griffiths is a former Wales international rugby league and rugby union player. Born in Loughor, Swansea, he was affectionately known as "Clive the Ship" after the family pub in nearby Penclawdd...
and captained by Iestyn HarrisIestyn HarrisIestyn Rhys Harris is a Welsh former rugby league footballer, who is currently the assistant coach at Wigan Warriors. Harris is a former Man of Steel winner and has also represented Wales on numerous occasions at both codes of rugby...
Results
This was the first rugby league match to be played at Twickenham Stadium, London's home of rugby unionRugby union
Rugby union, often simply referred to as rugby, is a full contact team sport which originated in England in the early 19th century. One of the two codes of rugby football, it is based on running with the ball in hand...
.
England:
1. Kris Radlinski
Kris Radlinski
Kris Radlinski MBE is a former English rugby league and who played for his hometown club Wigan Warriors throughout his career and also represented Great Britain. He is of Polish descent.-Playing career:...
, 2. Leon Pryce
Leon Pryce
Leon Pryce is an English professional rugby league footballer of Jamaican descent for the St. Helens club of Super League...
, 3. Scott Naylor
Scott Naylor
Scott Naylor is a rugby league coach and former player. He played for the Bradford Bulls of Super League from 1998 to 2003 and now coaches the Salford City Reds.-International honours:...
, 4. Keith Senior
Keith Senior
Keith Senior is an English professional rugby league or who most recently played for the Leeds Rhinos in Super League. He has won every honour in the English domestic game. He holds the record for the most Super League appearances & the most Super League tries...
, 5. Chev Walker
Chev Walker
Chev Walker is an English professional rugby league footballer for the Bradford Bulls of Super League. He has played both rugby league and rugby union professionally. Since 2007 he has played rugby league for Hull KR. Until 2010 when he signed a 1 year contract with the Bradford Bulls. Usually a ,...
, 6. Tony Smith, 7. Sean Long
Sean Long
Sean Long is an English former professional rugby league and current rugby union footballer with Preston Grasshoppers. He has played for Wigan, Widnes and Hull but is best known for playing for St Helens in the Super League. Internationally he has represented England and Great Britain at /...
8. Harvey Howard
Harvey Howard
Harvey Howard is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A Great Britain, and England international representative , he played club football in England for Widnes, Leeds, Bradford and Wigan, and in Australia for the Eastern Suburbs Roosters, Western Suburbs...
, 9. Paul Rowley
Paul Rowley
Paul Rowley born 12 March 1975 in Leigh, Greater Manchester, England is a coach and former rugby league player for Leigh Centurions in National League One.Paul Rowley's position of choice was as a hooker....
, 10. Stuart Fielden
Stuart Fielden
Stuart Fielden is an English professional rugby league footballer for Wigan of Super League...
, 11. Adrian Morley
Adrian Morley
Adrian Morley is an English professional rugby league footballer for the Warrington Wolves of Europe's Super League...
, 12. Mike Forshaw
Mike Forshaw
Michael "Mike" Forshaw is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He began his playing career with Wigan in 1987 and went on to play for Wakefield Trinity, Bradford Bulls & Warrington Wolves.He had a brief stint at Saracens F.C...
, 13. Andy Farrell.
Substitutes: 14. Paul Wellens
Paul Wellens
Paul Simon Wellens is an English multi-award–winning rugby league footballer. Wellens plays for St. Helens in the European Super League. Wellens is a Great Britain and England international...
, 15. Kevin Sinfield
Kevin Sinfield
Kevin Sinfield is an English professional rugby league player. He is the captain of the Leeds Rhinos in Super League. His recognised position is /, although he can cover both /, and . He has represented both England and Great Britain at international level.-Career:Sinfield began his career at...
, 16. Darren Fleary
Darren Fleary
Darren Fleary is a professional Rugby League player.-Career:He has played for Leeds Rhinos, Keighley Cougars, Leigh Centurions and his home town club Huddersfield Giants. He played Prop forward...
, 17. Paul Anderson.
Coach: John Kear
John Kear
John Kear is an English rugby league coach and former rugby league player. Kear is currently the coach of Batley Bulldogs...
Australia:
1. Darren Lockyer
Darren Lockyer
Darren Lockyer is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer. He was the captain of the Australian national team, the Queensland State of Origin team and his National Rugby League club, the Brisbane Broncos. His professional career spanned between 1995 and 2011...
, 2. Mat Rogers
Mat Rogers
Matthew S. "Mat" Rogers is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He also played rugby union at the highest levels, becoming a dual-code international. The son of the late Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks legend and CEO Steve Rogers, Mat played for the Sharks...
, 3. Ryan Girdler
Ryan Girdler
Ryan Girdler is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played centre and was a successful goal-kicker. Thanks to his on-field skills and good looks he became a popular figure in rugby league.-Rugby league career:Girdler first played in the NSWRL for the Illawarra...
, 4. Matt Gidley, 5. Wendell Sailor
Wendell Sailor
Wendell Jermaine Sailor is an Australian former professional rugby football player who represented his country in both rugby league and rugby union – a dual code international. He is an Australian Torres Strait Islander.Sailor's large frame and bullocking style changed the way wingers played rugby...
, 6. Brad Fittler
Brad Fittler
Bradley Scott "Freddie" Fittler AM is an Australian professional rugby league football coach and former player. The current coach of NSW City team in the City vs. Country clash, he coached in the NRL for the Sydney Roosters between 2007 and 2009. As a player, Fittler captained both New South Wales...
, 7. Brett Kimmorley
Brett Kimmorley
Brett "Noddy" Kimmorley was an Australian professional rugby league footballer for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs of the NRL. He has previously played for five other clubs and has also represented his country and state on several occasions...
8. Shane Webcke
Shane Webcke
Shane Webcke is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer, who spent his entire top-grade career playing for the Brisbane Broncos. His position of choice was at prop forward and at his peak he was renowned as the best front rower in the world...
, 9. Andrew Johns
Andrew Johns
Andrew Gary "Joey" Johns is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who is considered by many to be the greatest player of all time. He was heralded as the world's best halfback for a number of years...
, 10. Robbie Kearns
Robbie Kearns
Robbie Kearns is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer in the National Rugby League competition whose senior career began with the Cronulla Sharks. He represented New South Wales in State of Origin and Australia in international matches. His position of choice was at Prop Forward...
, 11. Gorden Tallis
Gorden Tallis
Gorden James Tallis is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer who played from 1992 to 2004. He captained Australia and Queensland as well as the Brisbane Broncos club, with whom he won three premierships and one Clive Churchill Medal...
, 12. Bryan Fletcher
Bryan Fletcher
Bryan Fletcher is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative second-row-forward, he played his club football in Australia with the Sydney Roosters then the South Sydney Rabbitohs...
, 13. Scott Hill.
Substitutes: 14. Adam MacDougall
Adam MacDougall
Adam "Mad Dog" MacDougall is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative centre, he has spent the majority of his career at the Newcastle Knights, with whom he won the 1997 and 2001...
, 15. Jason Croker
Jason Croker
Jason Croker is a former Australian professional rugby league footballer. An Australian international and New South Wales State of Origin representative utility player, he previously played club football in the NRL for the Canberra Raiders, with whom he won the 1994 Winfield Cup and set club...
, 16. Darren Britt
Darren Britt
Darren Britt is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played for the Western Suburbs Magpies and the Canterbury Bulldogs in the National Rugby League competition....
, 17. Jason Stevens
Jason Stevens
Jason Anthony Stevens is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country and state. He primarily played at prop...
----
Fiji:
1. Lote Tuqiri, 2. Jone Kuraduadua, 3. Waisale Sovatabua
Waisale Sovatabua
Waisale Sovatabua is a former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played for Sheffield Eagles, Huddersfield Giants and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats in the Super League...
, 4. Eparama Navale, 5. Farasiko Tokarei, 6. Semi Tadulala
Semi Tadulala
Semi Tadulala is a Fijian professional rugby league football winger for English club Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. He has also played for Gloucester Rugby and Leeds Carnegie at rugby union...
, 7. Stephen Smith
8. Kalaveti Tuiabayaba, 9. Tabua Cakacaka
Tabua Cakacaka
Tabua Cakacaka is a professional rugby league player. His position is prop/second row . He left Fiji at the age of 17 years when he was scouted by the South Sydney Rabbitohs...
, 10. Freddie Robarts, 11. Etuate Vakatawa, 12. Joe Tamani, 13. Samu Marayawa.
Substitutes: 14. Atunaisa Vunivialu, 15. Josefa Lasagavibau, 16. Amani Takayawa, 17. Peceli Vuniyayawa.
Russia:
1. Robert Iliassov, 2. Mikhail Mitrofanov, 3. Donovan, 4. Craig Cygler, 5. Romanov, 6. Olari, 7. Gavriline
8. Ian Rubin
Ian Rubin
Ian Rubin is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s. He played the majority of his professional career for both the Sydney clubs in the National Rugby League the Sydney Roosters and the South Sydney Rabbitohs...
, 8. Lysenkov, 10. Robert Campbell, 11. Sokolov, 12. Findlay, 13. Joel Rullis.
Substitutes: Kalachkine, Netchaev, Jiltsov, Postnikov.
----
Australians Ben Kennedy
Ben Kennedy
Ben Kennedy , is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s...
, Trent Barrett
Trent Barrett
Trent Barrett is an Australian retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s...
and Nathan Hindmarsh
Nathan Hindmarsh
Nathan William Hindmarsh is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who captains the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League and the Australian Prime Minister's XIII...
were selected to make their Kangaroo debuts in this match.
Australia:
1. Darren Lockyer
Darren Lockyer
Darren Lockyer is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer. He was the captain of the Australian national team, the Queensland State of Origin team and his National Rugby League club, the Brisbane Broncos. His professional career spanned between 1995 and 2011...
, 2. Mat Rogers
Mat Rogers
Matthew S. "Mat" Rogers is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He also played rugby union at the highest levels, becoming a dual-code international. The son of the late Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks legend and CEO Steve Rogers, Mat played for the Sharks...
, 3. Ryan Girdler
Ryan Girdler
Ryan Girdler is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played centre and was a successful goal-kicker. Thanks to his on-field skills and good looks he became a popular figure in rugby league.-Rugby league career:Girdler first played in the NSWRL for the Illawarra...
, 4. Matt Gidley, 5. Adam MacDougall
Adam MacDougall
Adam "Mad Dog" MacDougall is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative centre, he has spent the majority of his career at the Newcastle Knights, with whom he won the 1997 and 2001...
, 6. Trent Barrett
Trent Barrett
Trent Barrett is an Australian retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s...
, 7. Andrew Johns
Andrew Johns
Andrew Gary "Joey" Johns is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who is considered by many to be the greatest player of all time. He was heralded as the world's best halfback for a number of years...
, 8. Jason Stevens
Jason Stevens
Jason Anthony Stevens is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country and state. He primarily played at prop...
, 9. Craig Gower
Craig Gower
Craig Gower is an Australian-Italian professional rugby footballer. He is a dual-code rugby international, having played rugby league for Australia, and rugby union for Italy...
, 10. Michael Vella
Michael Vella
Michael Vella is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who currently captains English Super League club Hull Kingston Rovers. A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative forward, he previously played in the NRL for the Parramatta Eels club...
, 11. Ben Kennedy
Ben Kennedy
Ben Kennedy , is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s...
, 12. Nathan Hindmarsh
Nathan Hindmarsh
Nathan William Hindmarsh is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who captains the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League and the Australian Prime Minister's XIII...
, 13. Brad Fittler
Brad Fittler
Bradley Scott "Freddie" Fittler AM is an Australian professional rugby league football coach and former player. The current coach of NSW City team in the City vs. Country clash, he coached in the NRL for the Sydney Roosters between 2007 and 2009. As a player, Fittler captained both New South Wales...
.
Substitutes: Scott Hill, Jason Croker
Jason Croker
Jason Croker is a former Australian professional rugby league footballer. An Australian international and New South Wales State of Origin representative utility player, he previously played club football in the NRL for the Canberra Raiders, with whom he won the 1994 Winfield Cup and set club...
, Robbie Kearns
Robbie Kearns
Robbie Kearns is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer in the National Rugby League competition whose senior career began with the Cronulla Sharks. He represented New South Wales in State of Origin and Australia in international matches. His position of choice was at Prop Forward...
, Shane Webcke
Shane Webcke
Shane Webcke is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer, who spent his entire top-grade career playing for the Brisbane Broncos. His position of choice was at prop forward and at his peak he was renowned as the best front rower in the world...
.
Coach: Chris Anderson
Tries: Rogers 4, Kennedy 2, Barrett, Hindmarsh, MacDougall, Girdler 2, Gidley.
Goals: Rogers 9.
Fiji:
1. Lote Tuqiri, 2. Jone Kuraduadua, 3. Waisale Sovatabua, 4. Navalu, 5. Semi Tadulala
Semi Tadulala
Semi Tadulala is a Fijian professional rugby league football winger for English club Wakefield Trinity Wildcats. He has also played for Gloucester Rugby and Leeds Carnegie at rugby union...
, 6. Smith, 7. Naisoro, 8. Tabua Cakacaka
Tabua Cakacaka
Tabua Cakacaka is a professional rugby league player. His position is prop/second row . He left Fiji at the age of 17 years when he was scouted by the South Sydney Rabbitohs...
, 9. Robarts, 10. Vakatawa, 11. Tamani, 12. Marayawa, 13. Vunivalu.
Substitutes: Tokarei, Navugona, Takayawa, Wawavamia.
----
----
----
Final standings
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | For | Against | Diff | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 198 | 14 | 6 | ||
| 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 144 | 36 | 4 | ||
| 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 56 | 144 | |||
| 2 | ||||||||
| 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 20 | 224 | |||
| 0 |
Results
New Zealand:1. Ritchie Barnett (c), 2. Leslie Vainikolo, 3. Tonie Carroll
Tonie Carroll
Tonie Carroll is retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. An Australian and New Zealand international representative utility, he played for the Brisbane Broncos of the NRL...
, 4. Willie Talau
Willie Talau
Viliamu Talau is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who plays for English club Salford City Reds of Super League...
, 5. Brian Jellick
Brian Jellick
Brian Andrew Jellick is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. His position of preference was on the .-Playing career:...
, 6. Henry Paul
Henry Paul
Henry Paul , is a dual code rugby international. Paul has previously represented New Zealand in rugby league and England in rugby union XV's and 7's. He currently holds the world record for the most consecutive kicks on the field.Paul's usual position is loose forward/Lock. He can also operate in...
, 7. Stacey Jones
Stacey Jones
Stacey William Jones, ONZM is a professional rugby league footballer, who has been named amongst the greatest New Zealand has ever produced. He currently plays for the Point Chevalier Pirates in the Auckland Rugby League's Phelan Shield...
8. Smith, 9. Swain, 10. Pongia, 11. Logan Swann
Logan Swann
Logan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:...
, 12. Kearney, 13. Wiki.
Substitutes: J. Vagana, Robbie Paul
Robbie Paul
Robert Rawiri 'Robbie' Hunter-Paul is a New Zealand rugby league player. He currently plays for Leigh Centurions in England. He played for the New Zealand national team 27 times. He is the younger brother of Leeds Carnegie player Henry Paul.-Early years:Born in Tokoroa, New Zealand, his junior...
, Rua, Cayless.
Coach:Frank Endacott
Frank Endacott
Frank Morris Endacott, ONZM is a retired rugby league player and coach from New Zealand. His son, Shane, also played rugby league.-Playing career:Endacott played for Addington and Hornby in the Canterbury Rugby League competition...
Lebanon:
1. Hazem El Masri
Hazem El Masri
Hazem El Masri is a Lebanese-Australian retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. An Australia and Lebanon international, and New South Wales State of Origin representative winger, he played his entire club football career with the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs with...
(c), 2. Najarrin, 3. Katrib, 4. Touma, 5. H. Saleh, 6. Stanton, 7. Coorey
8. Maroon, 9. Semrani, 10. Elamad, 11. Chamoun, 12. Khoury, 13. Lichaa.
Substitutes: Salem, Nohra, Tamer, S. El Masri.
----
Wales:
1. Paul Atcheson
Paul Atcheson
Paul 'Patch' Atcheson is British former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played at representative level for Great Britain, and Wales, and at club level for Widnes Vikings , Wigan, Oldham Bears, and St. Helens, playing at , i.e...
, 2. Paul Sterling
Paul Sterling
Paul Sterling is an English born English/Welsh former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at representative level has played for England, and Wales, and at club level for Hull, Leeds Rhinos, and Hunslet Hawks playing at .-International honours:Paul Sterling won a cap for England...
, 3. Jason Critchley
Jason Critchley
Jason Critchley is a former professional rugby league and rugby union footballer, who at representative level has played rugby league for Wales, and at club level for Castleford Tigers , Keighley Cougars, Salford City Reds , Wakefield Trinity Wildcats , Whitehaven, and Widnes Vikings , playing...
, 4. Kris Tassell
Kris Tassell
Kris Tassell is a professional rugby league footballer who at representative level has played for Wales, and at club level for Canberra Raiders, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs, North Queensland Cowboys, Salford City Reds, Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, and Swinton Lions, playing at , or , i.e...
, 5. Anthony Sullivan
Anthony Sullivan
Anthony C. Sullivan is an English-born former rugby league and rugby union player who represented Wales at international level...
, 6. Iestyn Harris
Iestyn Harris
Iestyn Rhys Harris is a Welsh former rugby league footballer, who is currently the assistant coach at Wigan Warriors. Harris is a former Man of Steel winner and has also represented Wales on numerous occasions at both codes of rugby...
(c), 7. Lee Briers
Lee Briers
Lee Briers is a professional rugby league player who currently plays for Warrington Wolves in the Super League. He previously played for St Helens, and at international level he won 23 caps for Wales, many of those as captain...
8. Anthony Farrell
Anthony Farrell
Anthony Farrell was an English/Welsh rugby league player. He played for England, Wales, Huddersfield Giants, Sheffield Eagles, Leeds Rhinos, Widnes Vikings and Halifax, playing at , or ....
, 9. Keiron Cunningham
Keiron Cunningham
Keiron Cunningham is a former British professional rugby league footballer. A Great Britain and Wales international representative hooker, he played his entire club rugby career at St...
, 10. Dave Whittle
Dave Whittle
Dave Whittle is a former rugby league footballer, playing at .Whittle was a Wales international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-External links:**...
, 11. Justin Morgan
Justin Morgan
Justin Morgan was a U.S. horse breeder and composer.He was born in West Springfield, Massachusetts, and by 1788 had settled in Vermont. In addition to being a horse breeder and farmer, he was a teacher of singing; in that capacity he traveled considerably throughout the northeastern states...
, 12. Mick Jenkins, 13. Dean Busby
Dean Busby
Dean Busby is a former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who at representative level has played for Wales, and at club level for Hull , St. Helens, and Warrington Wolves, playing at , or /, i.e...
.
Substitutes: Ian Watson
Ian Watson (rugby league)
Ian Watson is a Welsh former rugby league footballer who played at /, or . He is currently assistant coach for Swinton in the Championship...
, Wes Davies
Wes Davies
Wes Davies is a Welsh former rugby league .Davies played international rugby league for the Wales national rugby league team and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-External links:*...
, Paul Highton
Paul Highton
Paul Highton is a prop or second row for the Oldham Roughyeds rugby league team. He was born in Oldham, Greater Manchester.Highton played for Waterhead A.R.L. Club prior to turning professional at Halifax in the 1994-95 season...
, Garreth Carvell
Garreth Carvell
Garreth Carvell is an English professional rugby league footballer who plays for Warrington Wolves of Super League. His position is prop-forward...
.
Cook Islands:
1. Richard Piakura
Richard Piakura
Richard Piakura is a Cook Islander former athlete and professional rugby footballer who has played for the Cook Islands in rugby league and rugby sevens.-Athletics career:...
, 2. Tongia, 3. Steve Berryman
Steve Berryman
Steve Berryman is a Cook Islander former professional rugby footballer who at representative level has played rugby league for the New Zealand Māori team and the Cook Islands.-Playing career:...
, 4. Kevin Iro
Kevin Iro
Kevin Leslie Iro is a former professional rugby league international footballer who has representated both New Zealand and the Cook Islands. In his domestic career, his achievements include playing in the Challenge Cup final for Leeds, Wigan and St. Helens.Iro is the younger brother of New Zealand...
(c), 5. Karl Temata
Karl Temata
Karl Temata is a New Zealand rugby league player. Temata is a Cook Islands international.-Playing career:...
, 6. Bowen, 7. Joe
8. Tuakuru, 9. Clark, 10. Temu, 11. Kuru, 12. Pau, 13. Anthony Samuels.
Substitutes: Andersson, Lewis, Tere Glassie
Tere Glassie
-Playing career:Glassie learned his trade with South Sydney, playing 3 first grade games with the Rabbitohs before further stints with Balmain Tigers, Newtown Jets and Wests Magpies. He then moved to the United Kingdom and played for Oldham, Leigh, Castleford Tigers and the Dewsbury Rams...
, Cook.
----
----
----
----
Final standings
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | For | Against | Diff | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 206 | 28 | 6 | ||
| 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 80 | 86 | |||
| 4 | ||||||||
| 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 44 | 110 | |||
| 1 | ||||||||
| 3 | 0 | 1 | 2 | 38 | 144 | |||
| 1 |
Results
France1. Freddie Banquet, 2. Yancine Dekkiche, 3. Cassin, 4. Dulac, 5. Patrice Benausse, 6. Laurent Frayssinous
Laurent Frayssinous
Laurent Frayssinous is a French former professional rugby league footballer and currently assistant coach of the Catalans Dragons...
, 7. Devechi
8. Rachid Hechiche, 9. Wulf, 10. Teixido, 11. Guisset, 12. Tallec, 13. Jampy.
Substitutes: El Khalouki, Carrasco, Sands, Despin.
Papua New Guinea
1. David Buko, 2. John Wiltshere, 3. Aila, 4. Songoro, 5. Marcus Bai
Marcus Bai
Marcus Bai is a Papua New Guinean former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. Primarily a winger, he played his final season in 2006 for English Super League team Bradford Bulls. He is the only man to win the World Club Challenge with three different clubs...
, 6. Stanley Gene
Stanley Gene
Stanley Gene is a former Papua New Guinean rugby league player who currently coaches the Villeneuve Leopards in the Elite One Championship in France. He recently played for Halifax in the Co-operative Championship. He has also previously played for Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants and Bradford Bulls...
, 7. Adrian Lam
Adrian Lam
Adrian Lam is an Australian rugby league football coach and former international player. He is the head coach of the under 20 St George Dragons squad National Rugby League team he signed with them in 2010 and will combine with coaching legend Wayne Bennett.He is a former Papua New Guinea rugby...
8. Kahl, 9. Marum, 10. Solbat, 11. Naawi, 12. Mamando, 13. O'Reilly.
Substitutes: Mom, Alex Krewanty, Norman, Mondo.
This was the first match of a double-header in Paris for the opening round.
----
This match formed the second part of the opening round double-header in Paris.
Tonga:
1. Koloi, 2. Fifita Moala
Fifita Moala
Fifita Moala , was a Tongan rugby league footballer of the 2000s. He played for the Melbourne Storm from 2000-04. In 2000, Moala played for the Tonga national rugby league team in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-External links:...
, 3. Tevita Vaikona
Tevita Vaikona
Tevita Vaikona is a professional rugby footballer, a powerful winger who enjoyed massive success in rugby league and picked up many honours before switching codes to rugby union where he was also hugely successful....
, 4. G. Wolfgramm, 5. Lipina Kaufusi, 6. Howlett, 7. W. Wolfgramm
8. Martin Masella
Martin Masella
Martin Masella is a former rugby league player.Martin Masella was a Tonga international and played at the 1995 and captained his country in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup...
(c), 9. Esau Mann
Esau Mann
Esau Mann is a Tongan former rugby league player who represented his country at the 2000 World Cup. He is a cousin of fellow internationals Duane and George Mann.-Playing career:...
, 10. Talite Liava'a
Talite Liava'a
Talite Liava'a is a former international representative rugby league footballer. His position of preference was at prop forward.-Representative career:Liava'a is one of a handful of players to have played in two World Cups, representing Tonga in 1995 and 2000...
, 11. Willie Mason
Willie Mason
William Marshall "Willie" Mason is an Australian professional rugby union footballer for Toulon in the Top 14 competition, having previously being a rugby league footballer for Hull KR in the European Super League.Mason signed a 3-year contract with Hull KR in September 2010, pending a successful...
, 12. Talou, 13. Duane Mann
Duane Mann
Duane Darrin Mann is a rugby league coach and former professional footballer who represented and captained both the New Zealand Kiwis and Tonga. He currently coaches the Bay Roskill Vikings in the Auckland Rugby League competition.-Personal life:...
.
Substitutes: D. Fisi'iahi, Manu, Nelson Lomi
Nelson Lomi
Nelson Lomi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Lomi was a member of the Sydney City Roosters in 1999 and 2000, making his NRL debut in Round 23 against the Brisbane Broncos...
, Kite.
South Africa:
1. Tim O'Shea, 2. Brian Best, 3. Leon Barnard, 4. Johnson, 5. Dames, 6. Conrad Breytenbach, 7. Jamie Bloem
Jamie Bloem
Jamie Bloem is a rugby league referee and former dual-code rugby player who played international rugby league for South Africa and Scotland.-Rugby league:...
8. Booysen, 9. Skelton, 10. Powell, 11. Rutgerson, 12. De Villiers, 13. Erasmus.
Substitutes: Jennings, Nel, Mulder, Cloete.
Coach: Paul Metete
----
Before the match a statue honouring French rugby league legend, Puig Aubert
Puig Aubert
Puig Aubert , was debatably the greatest French rugby league footballer of all-time Over a sixteen year professional career he would play for Carcassonne, XIII Catalan, Celtic de Paris and Castelnaudary winning five French championships and four French cups along with representing the French...
was unveiled by the French Rugby League Federation at the stadium.
France:
1. Freddie Banquet, 2. Jean-Marc Garcia, 3. Cassin, 4. Arnaud Dulac, 5. Claude Sirvent, 6. Fabien Devechi, 7. Rinaldi
8. Hechiche, 9. Wulf, 10. Sands, 11. Jerome Guisset
Jérôme Guisset
Jérôme Guisset is a formerFrench professional rugby league player. He recently played for Catalans Dragons as prop or second row, but he retired at the end of the 2010 season, and is now the assistant coach at the club....
, 12. Tallec, 13. Pascal Jampy
Pascal Jampy
Pascal Jampy is a rugby league player who currently plays for the Catalans Dragons club in the Super League competition. He is a French international and represented France in the 1995 and 2000 World Cups.-References:...
.
Substitutes: Despin, Carrasco, Sort, Teixido.
Tries: Banquet, Sirvent, Dulac, Garcia, Jampy.
Goals: Banquet 4.
Tonga:
1. Koloi, 2. Fifita Moala
Fifita Moala
Fifita Moala , was a Tongan rugby league footballer of the 2000s. He played for the Melbourne Storm from 2000-04. In 2000, Moala played for the Tonga national rugby league team in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-External links:...
, 3. Vaikona, 4. David Fisi'iahi, 5. L. Kaufusi, 6. Howlett, 7. Hifo
8. Martin Masella
Martin Masella
Martin Masella is a former rugby league player.Martin Masella was a Tonga international and played at the 1995 and captained his country in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup...
(c), 9. E. Mann, 10. Liava'a, 11. Willie Mason
Willie Mason
William Marshall "Willie" Mason is an Australian professional rugby union footballer for Toulon in the Top 14 competition, having previously being a rugby league footballer for Hull KR in the European Super League.Mason signed a 3-year contract with Hull KR in September 2010, pending a successful...
, 21. Kite, 13. D. Mann.
Substitutes: Paul Fisi'iahi, Manu, Nelson Lomi
Nelson Lomi
Nelson Lomi is a Tongan rugby league player who represented his country in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Lomi was a member of the Sydney City Roosters in 1999 and 2000, making his NRL debut in Round 23 against the Brisbane Broncos...
, A. Masella.
Sin Bin: Lomi (25") for flopping.
----
----
----
Final standings
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | For | Against | Diff | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 69 | 42 | 27 | 6 | |
| 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 104 | 37 | 67 | 4 | |
| 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 96 | 76 | 20 | 2 | |
| 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 24 | 138 | -114 | 0 |
Results
the opening match of the World Cup was accompanied by heavy rain. Samoa's Fred Peterson had to be stretchered off the field after suffering a blow to the head while making a tackle 15 minutes into the second half.Ireland
1. Steve Prescott
Steve Prescott
Stephen Prescott MBE , is an English former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s.Son of Eric Prescott, a formidable forward with St Helens in the 1970s, Steve Prescott played for St. Helens in the Rugby League Premiership and the Super League, and for Hull and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats...
, 2. Brian Carney, 3. Michael Withers
Michael Withers
Michael Withers is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented at international level for Ireland. He played club football in Australia for the Balmain Tigers of the National Rugby League, and in England with Wigan Warriors and Bradford Bulls of...
, 4. Michael Eagar
Michael Eagar
Michael Eagar is an Australian former rugby league player.Michael Eager played for the Newcastle Knights and South Queensland Crushers in Australia and Warrington Wolves, Castleford Tigers and Hull in the European Super League...
, 5. Forster, 6. Tommy Martyn
Tommy Martyn
Tommy Martyn played for St Helens in the Rugby League Premiership and, subsequently, Super League. He also played for Oldham and Leigh Centurions.Martyn teamed up with Bobbie Goulding in the halves for the 1997 Challenge Cup final at Wembley. His two tries and try-saving ankle-tap on Danny Peacock...
, 7. Ryan Sheridan
Ryan Sheridan
Ryan Sheridan is a former rugby league player.Sheridan was an Ireland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.Leeds Career :Ryan Sheridan was one of the most influential players in the late 1990s for the Rhinos...
8. O'Connor, 9. Williams, 10. Barrie McDermott
Barrie McDermott
Barrie McDermott is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A Great Britain international representative , he played his club football at Oldham, Wigan Warriors, Leeds Rhinos , Bramley and Widnes.McDermott later became the Head of Youth Development with...
, 11. Chris Joynt
Chris Joynt
Chris M. Joynt is an English former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A Great Britain international representative , and /, he played his club football with St...
, 12. Campion, 13. Luke Ricketson
Luke Ricketson
Luke Ricketson is an Australian retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. An Australian and Ireland international, and New South Wales State of Origin representative back-rower, he played his entire club football career for the Sydney Roosters of the NRL...
Substitutes: Bretherton, Lawless, Barnhill, Southern. Coach: Steve O'Neill
Steve O'Neill
Stephen Francis O'Neill was an American catcher, manager, coach and scout in Major League Baseball.Born to Irish immigrants in Minooka, Pennsylvania , O'Neill was one of six brothers who escaped a life in the coal mines by playing in the major leagues...
Samoa
1. Loa Milford, 2. Brian Leauma
Brian Leauma
Brian Leauma is a Samoan rugby footballer who represented his country in rugby league at the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Leauma attended Lithgow High in Lithgow, New South Wales...
, 3. Anthony Swann
Anthony Swann
Anthony Gilbert Swann is a New Zealand former rugby league player who represented both New Zealand and Samoa in international rugby league. He was educated at Liston College, Henderson.-Playing career:...
, 4. Gulavao, 5. Francis Meli
Francis Meli
Francis Meli is a professional rugby league player who currently plays for St. Helens in the Super League competition. Meli has represented both New Zealand and Samoa in internationals. His usual position is on the wing....
, 6. Simon Geros
Simon Geros
Simon Geros is a Samoan rugby league player who represented his country in the 2000 World Cup.-Playing career:Geros played for the Burleigh Bears when in 2000 he was selected for Samoa in the World Cup. He stayed with the Bears in the 2001 Queensland Cup....
, 7. Willie Swann
Willie Swann
Willie Swann is a former Samoa, Warrington Wolves and Auckland Warriors rugby league player.-Playing career:Swann was a Marist Saints junior who played fifteen matches for the Waitakere City Raiders in the 1994 Lion Red Cup, scoring 29 points. He was a Junior Kiwi in 1993...
8. Puletua, 9. Monty Betham
Monty Betham
Monty Betham is a professional boxer and former rugby league footballer and junior world karate champion...
, 10. Seu Seu, 11. Solomona, 12. Fred Peterson, 13. Willie Poching
Willie Poching
Willie Poching is a New Zealand professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the current coach of Samoa national team and assistant coach of English Super League club Warrington Wolves...
Substitutes: Tatupu, Kololo, Leafa, Faafili.
----
Scotland: 1. Lee Penny
Lee Penny
Lee Penny is a former rugby league player.Penny was born in Wigan in 1974, he attended St Cuthberts Infant and Junior School and St Thomas More High School....
, 2. Matt Daylight
Matt Daylight
Matt Daylight is a former rugby league player. He played club football for Gateshead Thunder in the European Super League competition. He also had a stint with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks and played in the Australian Super League competition for the Adelaide Rams.Daylight was also selected as a...
, 3. Graham Mackay
Graham Mackay
Graham Mackay is an Australian former national and state representative rugby league footballer whose club career spanned nine Australian and English clubs, including Western Suburbs, Penrith, Gold Coast Chargers and Hull F.C. in a fifteen year top grade career...
, 4. Geoff Bell
Geoff Bell (rugby league)
Geoff Bell is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A Scotland international and Queensland interstate representative threequarter, he played club football for the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks, North Queensland Cowboys and Penrith Panthers.Bell played for the Queensland...
, 5. Lee Gilmour
Lee Gilmour
Lee Gilmour is an English professional rugby league footballer who plays for Huddersfield Giants of Super League.Gilmour's usual position is , but he has played on the and in the s when a back-line player suffered an injury....
, 6. Andrew Purcell
Andrew Purcell
Andrew Purcell is a former rugby league player.Purcell was a Scotland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.20 th may-External links:**...
, 7. Richard Horne
Richard Horne
Richard Horne is an English-born Scotland international rugby league footballer with the European Super League team, Hull. His preferred position is /....
8. Heckenberg, 9. Russell, 10. Laughton, 11. Scott Logan
Scott Logan
Scott Logan is an Australian former professional rugby league player for the Canberra Raiders. His position is prop. He has been described as, "one of the most durable props of the modern era."-Playing career:...
, 12. Cram, 13. Adrian Vowles
Adrian Vowles
Adrian Vowles is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played in Australia for several years, gaining State of Origin selection in 1994, but spent the majority of his career in the European Super League...
.
Substitutes: David Maiden
David Maiden
David Maiden is a former rugby league player.Maiden was a Scotland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-External links:**...
, Matt Crowther
Matt Crowther
Matt Crowther is a former rugby league player.Crowther was a Scotland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-Challenge Cup final appearances:...
, Wayne McDonald
Wayne McDonald
Wayne McDonald is a former rugby league footballer, recently he played for the Campbelltown City Kangaroos in Australia. McDonald played over 175 games in the Super League in the 1990s and 2000s. He played club football for Wakefield Trinity Wildcats, Hull Sharks, St Helens, Leeds Rhinos, Wigan...
, Shaw.
Coach: Shaun McRae
Shaun McRae
Shaun McRae is a rugby league coach, who is currently the director of rugby at hull fc after a spell with the Salford City Reds.-Career:...
Sin Bin: McDonald (40).
New Zealand Maoris: 1. Clinton Toopi
Clinton Toopi
Clinton Toopi is a professional rugby footballer who is currently playing for the Gold Coast Titans of the National Rugby League. His usual position is centre.-Playing career:...
, 2. Manuell, 3. Kohe-Love, 4. David Kidwell
David Kidwell
David Kidwell is a retired professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Kidwell was a member of the 2005 Tri-Nations and 2008 World Cup winning New Zealand teams, which defeated Australia in both competitions' respective finals...
, 5. Sean Hoppe
Sean Hoppe
Sean Edward Hoppe is a New Zealand former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country.-Early years:...
, 6. Gene Ngamu
Gene Ngamu
Gene Robert Ngamu is a New Zealand former rugby league player. He played mainly at Halfback or Five Eighth and is probably best known for his combination with Stacey Jones in the Auckland Warriors and New Zealand Kiwis.-Early years:...
, 7. H. Te Rangi
8. Rauhihi, 9. Perenara, 10. Terry Hermansson
Terry Hermansson
Terry "The Rock" Hermansson is a former New Zealand rugby league player. An international representative prop forward, he played club football in England, Australia and New Zealand.-Playing career:...
, 11. Koopu, 12. Tyran Smith
Tyran Smith
Tyran Carl Smith is a former New Zealand rugby league player. He now works as a player agent.-Playing career:During his long career he played in the NSWRL Premiership, Australian Rugby League, Super League and finally the National Rugby League...
, 13. Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nikau
Tawera Nuieia Nikau is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative forward, he played club football at a number of different clubs in New Zealand, England and Australia during his career, including the Melbourne Storm's victory...
.
Substitutes: Martin Moana
Martin Moana
Martin Moana is a former professional rugby league footballer who was an international representative and played club football in England and New Zealand.-Early years:...
, Leuluai, Nahi, Reihana.
Sin Bin: Nikau (40).
----
Scotland's loose forward, Adrian Vowles
Adrian Vowles
Adrian Vowles is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played in Australia for several years, gaining State of Origin selection in 1994, but spent the majority of his career in the European Super League...
was sent to the sin bin mid-way through the second half for repeated off-side infringements
Ireland:
1. Steve Prescott
Steve Prescott
Stephen Prescott MBE , is an English former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s.Son of Eric Prescott, a formidable forward with St Helens in the 1970s, Steve Prescott played for St. Helens in the Rugby League Premiership and the Super League, and for Hull and Wakefield Trinity Wildcats...
, 2. Brian Carney, 3. Martyn, 4. Eagar, 5. Herron, 6. Michael Withers
Michael Withers
Michael Withers is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented at international level for Ireland. He played club football in Australia for the Balmain Tigers of the National Rugby League, and in England with Wigan Warriors and Bradford Bulls of...
, 7. Ryan Sheridan
Ryan Sheridan
Ryan Sheridan is a former rugby league player.Sheridan was an Ireland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.Leeds Career :Ryan Sheridan was one of the most influential players in the late 1990s for the Rhinos...
8. O'Connor, 9. Lawless, 10. McDermott, 11. Joynt, 12. Kevin Campion
Kevin Campion
Kevin Campion is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. His positions of choice were in the second row and at lock. Kevin is the younger brother of Australian radio personality Paul Campion...
, 13. Luke Ricketson
Luke Ricketson
Luke Ricketson is an Australian retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. An Australian and Ireland international, and New South Wales State of Origin representative back-rower, he played his entire club football career for the Sydney Roosters of the NRL...
.
Substitutes: Williams, Mathiou, Barnhill, Bradbury.
Scotland: 1. Danny Arnold
Danny Arnold
Danny Arnold was an American producer, writer, comedian, actor and director known for producing Barney Miller, That Girl and Bewitched.-Life and career:...
, 2. Matt Daylight
Matt Daylight
Matt Daylight is a former rugby league player. He played club football for Gateshead Thunder in the European Super League competition. He also had a stint with the Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks and played in the Australian Super League competition for the Adelaide Rams.Daylight was also selected as a...
, 3. Lee Gilmour
Lee Gilmour
Lee Gilmour is an English professional rugby league footballer who plays for Huddersfield Giants of Super League.Gilmour's usual position is , but he has played on the and in the s when a back-line player suffered an injury....
, 4. Bell, 5. Matt Crowther
Matt Crowther
Matt Crowther is a former rugby league player.Crowther was a Scotland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-Challenge Cup final appearances:...
, 6. Horne, 7. Scott Rhodes
Scott Rhodes
Scott Rhodes is a former rugby league player.Rhodes was a Scotland international and played at the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.-External links:**...
8. Heckenberg, 9. Russell, 10. Laughton, 11. Logan, 12. Cram, 13. Adrian Vowles
Adrian Vowles
Adrian Vowles is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played in Australia for several years, gaining State of Origin selection in 1994, but spent the majority of his career in the European Super League...
.
Substitutes: Maiden, Graham, McDonald, Shaw.
----
----
----
Final standings
| Team | Played | Won | Drawn | Lost | For | Against | Diff | Points |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 78 | 38 | 40 | 6 | |
| 3 | 2 | 0 | 1 | 57 | 58 | -1 | 4 | |
| 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | 49 | 67 | -18 | 2 | |
| 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 34 | 55 | -21 | 0 |
Knockout Stage
Quarter-Finals
--------
----
Semi-Finals
This was the England rugby league team's biggest ever loss.----
Wales became the first team in twelve months to score more than two tries against Australia.
Final
 Australia Australia |
Position | New Zealand  New Zealand |
|---|---|---|
| Darren Lockyer Darren Lockyer Darren Lockyer is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer. He was the captain of the Australian national team, the Queensland State of Origin team and his National Rugby League club, the Brisbane Broncos. His professional career spanned between 1995 and 2011... |
1. FB | Richie Barnett Richie Barnett Richie Barnett is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and2000s who represented the New Zealand Kiwis twelve times.-Playing career:... |
| Mat Rogers Mat Rogers Matthew S. "Mat" Rogers is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He also played rugby union at the highest levels, becoming a dual-code international. The son of the late Cronulla-Sutherland Sharks legend and CEO Steve Rogers, Mat played for the Sharks... |
2. WG | Nigel Vagana Nigel Vagana Nigel Vagana is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand and Samoa international representative centre, he retired as the Kiwis' all-time top try-scorer with 19... |
| Adam MacDougall Adam MacDougall Adam "Mad Dog" MacDougall is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative centre, he has spent the majority of his career at the Newcastle Knights, with whom he won the 1997 and 2001... |
3. CE | Tonie Carroll Tonie Carroll Tonie Carroll is retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. An Australian and New Zealand international representative utility, he played for the Brisbane Broncos of the NRL... |
| Matt Gidley | 4. CE | Willie Talau Willie Talau Viliamu Talau is a New Zealand professional rugby league footballer who plays for English club Salford City Reds of Super League... |
| Wendell Sailor Wendell Sailor Wendell Jermaine Sailor is an Australian former professional rugby football player who represented his country in both rugby league and rugby union – a dual code international. He is an Australian Torres Strait Islander.Sailor's large frame and bullocking style changed the way wingers played rugby... |
5. WG | Lesley Vainikolo Lesley Vainikolo Lesley Vainikolo is a dual code professional rugby football player who currently plays for Gloucester Rugby. He plays on the wing.... |
| Brad Fittler Brad Fittler Bradley Scott "Freddie" Fittler AM is an Australian professional rugby league football coach and former player. The current coach of NSW City team in the City vs. Country clash, he coached in the NRL for the Sydney Roosters between 2007 and 2009. As a player, Fittler captained both New South Wales... (c) |
6. FE | Henry Paul Henry Paul Henry Paul , is a dual code rugby international. Paul has previously represented New Zealand in rugby league and England in rugby union XV's and 7's. He currently holds the world record for the most consecutive kicks on the field.Paul's usual position is loose forward/Lock. He can also operate in... |
| Brett Kimmorley Brett Kimmorley Brett "Noddy" Kimmorley was an Australian professional rugby league footballer for the Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs of the NRL. He has previously played for five other clubs and has also represented his country and state on several occasions... |
7. HB | Stacey Jones Stacey Jones Stacey William Jones, ONZM is a professional rugby league footballer, who has been named amongst the greatest New Zealand has ever produced. He currently plays for the Point Chevalier Pirates in the Auckland Rugby League's Phelan Shield... |
| Shane Webcke Shane Webcke Shane Webcke is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer, who spent his entire top-grade career playing for the Brisbane Broncos. His position of choice was at prop forward and at his peak he was renowned as the best front rower in the world... |
8. PR | Craig Smith Craig Smith Craig Smith is an American professional basketball player who was most recently member of the Los Angeles Clippers... |
| Andrew Johns Andrew Johns Andrew Gary "Joey" Johns is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who is considered by many to be the greatest player of all time. He was heralded as the world's best halfback for a number of years... |
9. HK | Richard Swain Richard Swain Richard Swain is a retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative Hooker, he played club football in Australia for the Hunter Mariners, Melbourne Storm and Brisbane Broncos and in England for Hull.-Early years:Swain went to Farrer... |
| Robbie Kearns Robbie Kearns Robbie Kearns is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer in the National Rugby League competition whose senior career began with the Cronulla Sharks. He represented New South Wales in State of Origin and Australia in international matches. His position of choice was at Prop Forward... |
10. PR | Quentin Pongia Quentin Pongia Quentin Lee Pongia is a New Zealand former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s who represented his country. He is the grandson of fellow Kiwi international Jim Calder and his sister Megan Tahapeehi has also represented the Kiwi Ferns.-Playing career:Originally from the West Coast,... |
| Gorden Tallis Gorden Tallis Gorden James Tallis is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer who played from 1992 to 2004. He captained Australia and Queensland as well as the Brisbane Broncos club, with whom he won three premierships and one Clive Churchill Medal... |
11. SR | Matt Rua Matt Rua Matthew Rua is a former professional rugby league player.-Playing career:Rua was a Manly Warringah Sea Eagles junior in 1996 and played for the Junior Kiwis.... |
| Bryan Fletcher Bryan Fletcher Bryan Fletcher is an Australian former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New South Wales State of Origin and Australian international representative second-row-forward, he played his club football in Australia with the Sydney Roosters then the South Sydney Rabbitohs... |
12. SR | Stephen Kearney Stephen Kearney Stephen Peter Kearney, ONZM is a professional rugby league football coach and former player. He is the current head coach of the Parramatta Eels in the NRL as well as the New Zealand national team... (c) |
| Scott Hill | 13. LF | Ruben Wiki Ruben Wiki Ruben Wiki, ONZM is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. A New Zealand international representative centre-turned-prop forward, he retired with the record for most number of international appearances of any rugby league player in history... |
| Trent Barrett Trent Barrett Trent Barrett is an Australian retired professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s... |
14. Bench | Robbie Paul Robbie Paul Robert Rawiri 'Robbie' Hunter-Paul is a New Zealand rugby league player. He currently plays for Leigh Centurions in England. He played for the New Zealand national team 27 times. He is the younger brother of Leeds Carnegie player Henry Paul.-Early years:Born in Tokoroa, New Zealand, his junior... |
| Nathan Hindmarsh Nathan Hindmarsh Nathan William Hindmarsh is an Australian professional rugby league footballer who captains the Parramatta Eels in the National Rugby League and the Australian Prime Minister's XIII... |
15. Bench | Joe Vagana Joe Vagana Joe Vagana is a former professional rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. During his career Vagana played for the Auckland Warriors and the Bradford Bulls and also represented both Samoa and New Zealand in international competition... |
| Darren Britt Darren Britt Darren Britt is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played for the Western Suburbs Magpies and the Canterbury Bulldogs in the National Rugby League competition.... |
16. Bench | Nathan Cayless Nathan Cayless Nathan Frederick Cayless is a retired New Zealand-Australian professional rugby league footballer, who was a long-time captain the Parramatta Eels of the National Rugby League. His position of choice was prop forward. He is also a former captain of the New Zealand national team, whom he led to... |
| Jason Stevens Jason Stevens Jason Anthony Stevens is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country and state. He primarily played at prop... |
17. Bench | Logan Swann Logan Swann Logan Swann is a former professional rugby league footballer who represented his country. Swann is related to several other rugby league players, notably cousins Willie and Anthony.-Early years:... |
| Chris Anderson | Coach | Frank Endacott Frank Endacott Frank Morris Endacott, ONZM is a retired rugby league player and coach from New Zealand. His son, Shane, also played rugby league.-Playing career:Endacott played for Addington and Hornby in the Canterbury Rugby League competition... |
Trans-Tasman
Trans-Tasman is an adjective used primarily in Australia and New Zealand, which signifies an interrelationship between both countries. Its name originates from the Tasman Sea which lies between the two countries...
opponents, who had been tipped by some to cause an upset. Wendell Sailor put in a strong performance with two great tries and Mat Rogers had a near-perfect afternoon with the boot as the Australians ran out 40-12 winners and were crowned world champions for a sixth successive time.
Australia stepped on the gas from the kick-off, tearing into New Zealand at every opportunity. But the Kiwi defence stood firm, although they almost conceded after 22 minutes. Sailor looked to have scored the first try
Try
A try is the major way of scoring points in rugby league and rugby union football. A try is scored by grounding the ball in the opposition's in-goal area...
of the game after a burst down the right wing only for the video official to rule that Stephen Kearney had prevented the Brisbane Broncos player from grounding the ball. The look of disbelief on Sailor's face was there for everyone to see, but he clearly did not let the decision affect his game. Three minutes later, his grubber kick was pounced on by Matt Gidley, who beat Kearney to the touch down. Rogers, assuming the kicking duties in place of the injured Ryan Girdler
Ryan Girdler
Ryan Girdler is an Australian former rugby league footballer of the 1990s and 2000s. He played centre and was a successful goal-kicker. Thanks to his on-field skills and good looks he became a popular figure in rugby league.-Rugby league career:Girdler first played in the NSWRL for the Illawarra...
, landed the conversion to open up a 6-0 lead. New Zealand had few opportunities to go on the offensive, although they finished the first half strongly. But it was the favourites Australia who looked in control and deservedly went into the break in front.
The start of the second half was held up by the appearance of a male streaker. When play finally got under way, the tackles were just as ferocious as ever, neither side giving an inch. However Australia gained the edge when Brad Fittler split the defence with a pass to Nathan Hindmarsh, who scored from close range, bringing the score to 10-0. Rogers converted to make it 12-0. New Zealand were not about to throw in the towel and hit back almost immediately. Lesley Vainikolo pounced on a loose ball to dive over on 49 minutes, although the decision was again made by the video referee. When Henry Paul landed the conversion, the deficit was back down to six points. Soon after, Australian Halfback, Brett Kimmorley, made a break down the right before feeding the ball inside to fullback Darren Lockyer, who crossed for another try. Rogers' third successful kick made it 18-6 to the defending champions. However, the Kiwis quickly struck back when Tonie Carroll beat several Australian defenders to score. Henry Paul's conversion made it 18-12.
New Zealand then made several cruical errors and Australia were able to capitalise. Sailor grabbed two tries in the space of five minutes to take his tally for the tournament to 10. The first of them came on 63 minutes courtesy of a reverse pass from Gidley. Rogers missed the second of the two quick conversions. Skipper Fittler then breached the New Zealand defence on 73 minutes to score his first try of the final which was converted by Rogers. Substitute Trent Barrett then finished the scoring, with a try that was converted by Rogers.