Following the announcement that the Australasian countries had withdrawn from the men's, women's and wheelchair competitions over COVID-19 concerns, the Rugby League Players' Association (RLPA) released a statement.

"The news overnight that Australia and New Zealand will not compete in the 2021 World Cup is no doubt disappointing for players who were hoping to represent their Nations in the tournament," said RLPA chief executive officer Clint Newton.

"We have had feedback from a number of players eligible for these Nations stating their intentions to compete in the tournament, pending more information becoming available in the coming weeks.

"Clearly, the views of those players have not been enough to prevent this decision and we believe it has been made prematurely.

"We have worked closely with Rugby League World Cup staff for some time now and we are committed to continuing those discussions regarding player health and safety protocols.

"We have an obligation to advocate on behalf of all players to secure the best possible terms and conditions for the tournament, and this remains ongoing.

"For players representing remaining participating Nations, our priority will be to help ensure appropriate health and safety measures are in place, and also provide them with the relevant information to make an informed decision about participation.

"We had anticipated that players from Australia and New Zealand would have that same opportunity, which has unfortunately been taken away from them with last night’s decision."

As the world's top two ranked sides, the decision made by the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) and New Zealand Rugby League (NZRL) is devastating for the sport.

It is believed the strong influence of the National Rugby League, Australia's highest rugby league competition, is why the Kangaroos have pulled out.

Despite a recent survey showing that 75% of players consulted by Australia's players' union remained happy to travel to England for the World Cup, the domestic clubs are concerned that it will be detrimental for the season.

This is because, following a mandatory quarantine and rest period after the tournament, which ends in late November, the game’s top players will return to pre-season training later than originally envisaged.

2021 will mark the 16^th edition of the Rugby League World Cup and is set to take place in England for the sixth time from October 23 to November 27.

Australia has won the World Cup 11 times, while New Zealand won the competition in 2008.