The Three Most Successful Countries in the History of the Rugby League World Cup

Late last year, the rugby world was on tenterhooks as the 2023 Rugby World Cup took place in France. There were plenty of stories that came out of the tournament such as the top Northern Hemisphere favourites – namely France and Ireland – were dumped out in the quarterfinals despite topping their respective pools. Then there was England, who despite having a dismal last couple of years still made it to the semifinals and very nearly disposed of the eventual champions South Africa. But ultimately, it was the Springboks that reigned supreme.

But what of the “other” form of Rugby? Rugby League and its respective World Cup don’t make as many headlines as the union version. Many of you may not know the best teams on the planet in the six-tackle format. Rest assured, we are here to fill you in. Certain nations have risen above the rest within this fiercely contested arena, etching their names in the sport’s lore. But who are they?

Australia

Arguably the most dominant force in the Rugby League World Cup, and comfortably so. The Kangaroos have wielded a potent blend of talent, strategy, and sheer will that has seen them secure victory after victory on the world stage. Their trophy cabinet is a sight to behold, adorned with a record-setting 12 titles. Websites providing rugby league online betting odds made them an overwhelming favourite for the trophy in 2021 and they duly delivered, claiming the crown for the third straight tournament. They have ruled with such an iron fist that they have tasted success in all but four instalments of the competition. 

Their success can be in part attributed to the numerous legends who have donned the green and gold jersey. Names like Clive Churchill, Wally Lewis, and Andrew Johns have become synonymous with the Australian brand of dominance. Each tournament also blesses fans with moments of brilliance, like a dominant 30-2 victory in the 2013 final against New Zealand, securing another title for the Down Under powerhouse. 

Great Britain

Great Britain no longer competed as a unified nation at the World Cup, but when they did, they were the only team that could take the fight to the aforementioned Aussies. Flying under the Union Jack flag, the Brits claimed the trophy in three of the first six showdowns on the global stage, firstly knocking off France in the inaugural final before twice defeating Australia in 1960 and once again 12 years later. 

In 1975, all four home nations went their separate ways before reconvening a few years later and reaching two further finals, losing both to the Kangaroos. However, in 1995 they went their separate ways once and for all, and they have had differing levels of success since. England have reached two finals, losing both, most recently a 6-0 defeat in 2021. Wales have never made the showpiece match but they have reached the semifinals on four separate occasions, most recently in 2000. Scotland meanwhile are yet to make their presence felt.

New Zealand

While New Zealand has been the dominant force in rugby union for what feels like an eternity, their story in rugby league is far different. The Land of the Long White Cloud was defeated in eight straight semifinals between 1954 and 1977. They then reached their first final in 1988 but it wasn’t until the turn of the millennium that they established themselves as a contender. 

They reached three straight finals between 2000 and 2013, losing the first and last of them. However, their crowning moment came in 2008 when they stunned the heavily favoured Australia by 34-20, on enemy territory in Brisbane no less, to lift the Rugby League World Cup for the first – and so far only – time.