1985 - 1988 Rugby League World Cup

The ninth Rugby League World Cup saw yet another change of format. The competition was stretched to cover almost three years (1985 to 1988), with teams playing each other on a home and away basis. These matches were fitted into the normal international programme of three-match test series between the nations, with a pre-designated match from each series counting as the world cup fixture.

The competition was further altered by the addition of a new nation, Papua New Guinea. The Kumuls performed creditably, particularly when playing in the front of their fiercely patriotic home crowd. Conversely, France were unable to fulfil their 1987 tour of Australasia due to financial difficulties, and had to forfeit away fixtures against Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.

The competition was confusing to follow, and for the early stages it was difficult for supporters to focus on. Towards the end of the cycle things improved, with the final group stage match between New Zealand and Great Britain being a sudden death battle for a spot in the final, Britain needing only a draw. In the event the Kiwis came through 12-10, and went on to face Australia in the final at Eden Park, Auckland.

The final attracted one of the highest ever crowds for a rugby league match in New Zealand: 47,363. Unfortunately for them, home advantage was not enough for New Zealand, who went down 12-25 to the seemingly invincible Australians.

Results

Final standings

TeamPlayedWonDrewLost ForAgainstDifferencePoints
Australia 7 5 0 2 252 91 161 121
Missing image
Flag_of_New_Zealand.png


New Zealand
7 4 1 2 158 86 72 111
Great Britain 8 4 2 2 203 90 113 10
Missing image
Papua_new_guinea_flag_large.png


Papua New Guinea
7 1 0 6 84 325 -241 41
France 5 1 1 3 35 140 -105 3

1 = Received two points for non-fulfilment of fixtures by France in 1987

Final

Template:Rlwc

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