The second Nordic Cup commences next month and will be an expanded three match series that will include Denmark, who join their Scandinavian counterparts Norway and Sweden.

The Swedes host Denmark on 2nd July at Spartacus Rugby Club in Gothenburg , travelling to Norway on 17th September. The Norwegians will close the tournament with a first trip to Denmark on 2nd October.

Sweden, who pulled off a shock 20-all draw with Norway in October, should be a stronger outfit this year thanks to the launch of a three team domestic competition.

Borås Ravens’ Leon Cort has been named as captain for the opening game. "We're looking forward to playing the match against Denmark," he said. "It will be interesting to take on a team that we know little about, nevertheless we'll be expecting a tough challenge. It's very exciting having another of our neighbouring countries joining us in the rugby league world giving us all a wonderful opportunity to develop the sport in Scandinavia and, in turn, Northern Europe".

The Swedish 20 man squad includes players from all the sides – Boras Ravens, Spartacus Reds, and Gothenburg Lions as well as Joakin Svensson who plays in Norway for Flisbyen Broncos and Alex Rappestad from Fife Lions in Scotland.

Although their debut, Denmark have the experience of former London Skolar Nigel Kitchen as coach.

Norway – whose CEO, Warren Heilig, is another ex-Skolar – will start as favourites as they have featured in the European Shield campaign against Germany and Malta.