Australia and New Zealand have been branded "selfish, parochial and cowardly" over their decision to pull out of the Rugby League World Cup due to coronavirus concerns.
The tournament is set to be held in England from October.
However, in an angry response, Rugby Football League chairman Simon Johnson says the World Cup organisers have bent over backwards and turned double somersaults to meet every single requirement that was asked of them, by the Australians particularly.
Super League chairman Ken Davy said he was astounded by Australia and New Zealand's decision to withdraw, highlighting that both nations have sent athletes to the Olympics while their rugby union teams will tour the UK in October and November.
The All Blacks and Wallabies will both face Wales in Cardiff, with Australia also playing England and Scotland at Twickenham and Murrayfield respectively.
The Kangaroos and Kiwis have officially pulled out of the Rugby League World Cup citing player welfare and safety concerns.
In a joint statement, they say they have requested the IRL to postpone the tournament until 2022 to "minimise the risk of players contracting COVID-19 and ensure the best outcome for player wellbeing".
[Source: Sky Sports]
