With the two final European spots being wrapped up by Ireland and Scotland, perhaps against the wishes of many in the forum, only one of Wales, Lebanon, Samoa, and the USA will make it.
Wales - Semi-finalists the last two world cups, have a semi-professional RL team looking to get into the Super League.
Lebanon - Will probably draw big crowds at Parramatta and Penrith due to the large Sydney based Lebanese population. Has an emerging domestic competition.
Samoa - Strong side on paper, although some players have dubious commitments and ties to Samoa after playing for NZ.
USA - Has a strong domestic competition with plenty of home grown players in the squad.
I'm hoping that Wales get in, due to their performance at the last two world cups and for the Celtic Crusaders and the game in Wales, but their performances obviously have not been up to scratch. Lebanon is a close second due to the probable crowds and then USA and Samoa.
Wales - Semi-finalists the last two world cups, have a semi-professional RL team looking to get into the Super League.
Lebanon - Will probably draw big crowds at Parramatta and Penrith due to the large Sydney based Lebanese population. Has an emerging domestic competition.
Samoa - Strong side on paper, although some players have dubious commitments and ties to Samoa after playing for NZ.
USA - Has a strong domestic competition with plenty of home grown players in the squad.
I'm hoping that Wales get in, due to their performance at the last two world cups and for the Celtic Crusaders and the game in Wales, but their performances obviously have not been up to scratch. Lebanon is a close second due to the probable crowds and then USA and Samoa.