RUGBY League World Cup organisers will have further discussions with stakeholders - including the players - as they aim to deliver the tournament in the autumn.

The World Cup Board held another emergency meeting today - where they reiterated the determination to deliver "the biggest and best ever Rugby League World Cup in history".

However, following the news from Australia and New Zealand they are realistic about the significant challenges that threaten that ambition.

Jon Dutton, RLWC2021 Chief Executive Officer, said: "In light of the decision by the ARLC and NZRL to withdraw from the event, the Board have instructed myself and the RLWC2021 team to continue to hold further urgent discussions with all stakeholders, particularly the players, aimed at correcting misinformation as well as measuring the sentiment on proceeding with the tournament.

"The RLWC2021 Board recognise the need to bring clarity and certainty to the situation.

"They have also underlined the relentless work that has been taking place to establish the most safe and secure environment for all involved - in line with other world class major events that have taken place successfully in the UK in 2021."

In a statement issued by RLWC 2021 they state are currently in dialogue with the UK government on a regular basis.

They will be having dialogue with the players on the extraordinary measures they will implement to protect their wellbeing during the event

And they are communicating with the competing nations to fully understand any new or developing issues that will prevent them travelling to England in October.

They are also speaking with the 18 dedicated host towns and cities as well as the 21 world class venues that will stage RLWC2021 matches.

And of course there is discussion with the IRL on the implications of the decision made by the ARLC and NZRL and replacement teams.

It concludes: "We place on record our sincere thanks for the understanding of the hundreds of thousands of fans who are planning to attend the tournament, as well as our loyal commercial and broadcast partners who have been so supportive during this challenging time."