Papua New Guinea will play host to another unbeaten side in Samoa this afternoon with the winner to likely progress to the semi finals.

Michael Cheika has hit out at the Rugby League Players Association and International Rugby League, claiming he was denied a request for Lebanon to play a warm-up game going into the World Cup.

They grew up playing together, spent years as teammates and remain close mates to this day.

Tonga and Samoa, once regarded as minnows of rugby league, are now top-drawer attractions at the Rugby League World Cup.

Tonga's win over Lebanon kicked off what's expected to be a lopsided weekend in the Rugby League World Cup but there's still something to be gained amid the blow-outs. 

The Tigers are exploring the possibility of taking a home game to the deep south of New Zealand next year. Christian Nicolussi

NRL and All Blacks great Sonny Bill Williams says he could have died at any moment after doctors discovered a life-threatening heart condition.

Sonny Bill Williams has revealed he recently underwent open-heart surgery in an emotional 24-minute video posted on YouTube. Sam Worthington

Bulldogs supremo Phil Gould has confirmed Matt Burton is free to test his value on the open market before November 1.

The PNG Chiefs approached All Blacks star Damian McKenzie about a shock code switch after the 2027 Rugby World Cup. Tom Decent