LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Tonga and Samoa are poised to clash in a World Cup match next year as part of an innovative three-group format for international rugby league's premier event.
Games will take place in Australia and Papua New Guinea, following a weekend schedule similar to that of the NRL in the tournament.
Unless there are last-minute changes, Brisbane is anticipated to host the final in mid-November, continuing its legacy from the 2008 and 2017 finals. Sydney is also likely to serve as the venue for one of the semi-finals.
The number of games in New South Wales is expected to rise compared to the 2017 tournament, with several men's matches scheduled as double-headers alongside women's games.
Each men's team will play three matches in the group stage, after which the top four teams will advance to the semi-finals.
According to AAP, the men's structure will feature Group A containing four teams, including the top two ranked sides globally: Australia and New Zealand. The two top finishers from this group will move on to the semi-finals.