As RLEF qualifying Group A winners, Wales, will take position “EQ1” in Pool C of the RLWC2017 tournament draw, with Ireland taking the place of “EQ2” as Group B winners.
RLWC2017 CEO, Andrew Hill, welcomed the addition of both teams to the sport’s pinnacle international event which will be co-hosted by Australia and New Zealand, with three pool games in Papua New Guinea, from 27 October until 2 December 2017.
“I’d like to congratulate both Ireland and Wales on qualifying for next year’s Rugby League World Cup.
“With large expat communities in Australia, we know these two teams will receive strong support and win over a legion of new fans during their respective campaigns.
“The organising committee is preparing to welcome all competing countries and their supporters to what will be the greatest Rugby League World Cup.”
The 2017 tournament will be the first time the Welsh Dragons have featured in a Rugby League World Cup played in the Southern Hemisphere since 1975, and the fourth consecutive appearance for Irish Wolfhounds.