ORGANISERS of the 2021 World Cup have hailed the success of rugby league’s first ever ticket ballot after revealing that 70 per cent of applications have come from people new to the game.

Tickets have been bought from 32 countries across five continents, including emerging markets in Brazil and Jamaica, while domestically feedback shows fans with a London postcode applied for the most tickets.

Not surprisingly, the opening match between England and Samoa at St James’ Park and the double-header final at Old Trafford on November 27 2021 are the most popular fixtures.

RLWC2021 chief executive Jon Dutton said: “The reaction to the ballot has been outstanding and shows significant confidence and excitement for the tournament.

“Demand during the public ticket ballot has far exceeded our expectations and I want to thank those who have applied for tickets. This is a tournament of firsts and will be the biggest and best RLWC ever.

“Despite the pandemic, people have made an early commitment largely based on anticipation, hope and optimism.”

Organisers remain confident the tournament will remain on schedule despite the coronavirus pandemic and are set to announce a principle partner today which is thought to represent the biggest commercial deal in rugby league outside of Australia.