Shock contender emerges for Rugby League World Cup glory as England named as FIFTH favourites

England are the fifth favourite for Rugby League World Cup. Australia are fourth in the latest world rankings. New Zealand are top of the rankings and have won 11 of 15 World Cups. Samoa have named an incredibly-strong squad with six players from NRL Grand Final winners Penrith Panthers in their side. They are favourites to win in tournament opener against England on Saturday.

Australia are the favourites to retain their Rugby League World Cup crown. New Zealand are second most likely to win the competition. England are fifth most probably to be crowned champions. Samoa are favourites for their opening game against England at St James' Park on Saturday. If England lose, they could face Tonga in the semi-finals. England coach Shaun Wane welcomes the rise of Tongan and Pacific Islanders. He believes the tournament will be the most competitive one in recent years. The bookmakers have named England as fifth favourite. They have also named Tongans as fourth favourite, ahead of Samoa.