Two international players have slammed the format of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup after their nations failed to qualify for the prestigious tournament.

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A four-time Scotland international winger, Lachlan Walmsley (signed to the Bradford Bulls for 2027), took to social media to vent his frustration at being denied the chance to represent his heritage.

This comes as International Rugby League (IRL) shortened the format this year, meaning some nations that competed in the previous World Cup in England couldn’t take part.

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“So Scotland, Wales, Italy and Ireland don’t get to compete in this World Cup, but a poor man’s England win by 80 points… it’s a joke this,” he wrote on social media.

“I want to represent my family but can’t. What a waste of time.

“What are we doing? Scotland played Fiji in 2022 and it finished 30-14… now we play England 2nds v French 3rds and it finishes 82-0. Turn it off.”

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Five-time Italian international forward Ryan King echoed Walmsley’s frustration.

Formerly in the Cronulla Sharks Under-20s side in 2017, King has spent the past few years overseas playing for a variety of clubs.

However, he did feature for Italy in the 2022 World Cup.

“Thank f(***) someone said it, whole set up is s***,” he shared.

“We’re missing an opportunity for a lot of unknown players to show it on the world stage, it just seems to be going backwards.”

KATOA URGES DOLPHINS TO RETAIN STARS

Dolphins captain and Tongan superstar Isaiya Katoa has urged his club to do everything they can to retain teammate Jack Bostock as he prepares to hit the open market on November 1.

Scoring three tries in his international debut for Australia, Bostock is set to become one of the most sought-after players on the open market and has already garnered interest from the Dragons, Eels and Knights (only if Bradman Best leaves).

With the 24-year-old poised to command a significant payday on his next deal, Katoa is hopeful he will remain at the Dolphins for a few more years as they push towards their maiden premiership.

Noy only did Katoa highlight his ability on the field but also praised his work ethic and to light up the room whenever he entered.

“1oo per cent (I would like him to remain at the Dolphins),” Katoa said.

“I think the confidence Jack gives to the rest of his teammates is pretty special .

“When he comes in, he’s always very positive. He’s a good bloke and one thing he does really well is work so hard on his game and it was pretty special seeing him score three tries on his debut.

“There’s not many guys I can say that’ve scored a hattrick on an international debut.

“The way he played was pretty special and I think’s he’s awesome and hopefully we can keep him at the Dolphins for a few more years.”

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND – SEPTEMBER 12: Isaiya Katoa and Jack Bostock of the Dolphins celebrate victory following the NRL Qualifying Final match between New Zealand Warriors and Dolphins at Go Media Stadium on September 12, 2026 in Auckland, New Zealand. (Photo by Phil Walter/Getty Images)Source: Getty Images