Australia top the latest RLIF rankings which have been released today and feature 28 national Rugby League teams spread over five continents. The Kangaroos have amassed 1,418.964 rating points which gives them a 100 per cent rating index putting them ahead of New Zealand in second place on 73 per cent and England in third on 55 per cent. Papua New Guinea sit in fourth position with 291.7474 rating points and a rating index of 21 per cent.

With the 2013 Rugby League World Cup just around the corner, France have extended their lead over Wales in fifth place courtesy of their 28-16 victory on June 16. Elsewhere, Ireland have overtaken USA into 11th place and below this Russia and Serbia are now level on 43 points with Russia moving up from 17th to 16th place, overtaking the Serbs courtesy of their victory in the Shield. Germany move up one place from 19th to 18th thanks to their Shield campaign and Canada draw virtually level on points with Malta in 20th position.

RLWC2013 tickets go on general sale on Friday October 26, one year out from the first match double-header at the Millennium Stadium. For more information on the RLIF visit: http://www.rlif.com/

Pictured: Australia remain on top of New Zealand.