North Queensland, Brisbane and the Roosters have officially accepted invitations to represent the NRL in next year's World Club Series.
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The Cowboys will take on the winner of this weekend's Super League grand final between Wigan and Leeds, with both European sides assured of a start in the competition. Brisbane has qualified after making the decider, while the Roosters booked their place by taking out the minor premiership. A decision on the third English side is expected to be announced shortly. Warriors fullback Matt Bowen, one of North Queensland's favourite sons, could well determine whether the Warriors book a spot in the main game. However, the man dubbed "Mango" is unlikely to face his former club after announcing his retirement at the end of the season.
Broncos halfback Ben Hunt will miss the fixture after accepting a one-match ban for his lifting tackle on Cowboy Kane Linnett, while Adam Blair will escape suspension after entering an early guilty plea to a high tackle on Jake Granville.
The winner of the clash between the NRL and Super League premiers will carry the title of being the world's best club rugby league side. Over the past 10 encounters, the title has been shared evenly between the hemispheres. However, the Australians dominated the inaugural World Club Series, with premiers South Sydney defeating St Helens 39-0 at Langtree Park. Brisbane and St George Illawarra also won their matches, against Warrington and Wigan respectively, to clinch an Australian trifecta. Some consideration was given to extending the WCS to a fourth match, but that has been put on hold for at least another season.
It's unclear whether the matches will give Australian fans the first look at the game under a new interchange system. The NRL has committed to reducing the number of substitutions from 10 to eight, while the Super League will make the change 12 months later.
The Cowboys continue to celebrate their maiden premiership and are looking to include as many of their fans as possible. The club is in the process of organising a regional tour with the Provan-Summons Trophy and selected players that will likely encompass Cairns, Mackay and Mount Isa. There is also the possibility of visiting smaller towns in the region in weeks to come.
