THE 2021 Rugby League World Cup organisers have said they have made “constructive progress” on the tournament going ahead as planned.

It has been widely speculated that the competition could be postponed until next year or moved to Australia as NRL clubs are nervous about releasing their players amid the pandemic.

The tournament is currently set to begin from October, with the LNER Community Stadium to host eight women’s matches, including both semi-finals.

The RLWC2021 have released a statement explaining that progress has been made on finding a solution.

“Our primary focus remains to deliver the Rugby League World Cup this year, as planned, and constructive progress has been made this week,” they said.

“We are realistic about the complex challenges we are facing in these unprecedented times, including the international travel arrangements and quarantining of athletes and staff from the Southern Hemisphere.

“In the interests of delivering clarity and certainty to everyone involved in staging the tournament, a final decision will be made as soon as possible.

“However we have made it clear that our decision making will not be dictated by deadlines if further consideration is required.”