A further fixture has been added to the mid-season international fixtures, with Lebanon scheduled to face Malta at Belmore Sports Ground in Sydney on Wednesday 22 June.

It will be the Cedars’ first game since 2019 and vital preparation for their World Cup campaign this autumn, whilst Malta recently beat debutants Montenegro at home.

Lebanon head coach, Michael Chieka, commented: “All of us are very excited about finally getting on the field to play in the colours of our country. Malta are great friends of ours in the rugby league landscape and to play them here in Australia will be a real honour for us.

“This Test match is going to be a great opportunity for the players – many of whom will be making their debuts – to put their hand up for World Cup selection. We will probably have only one or two games together prior to the squad being announced, so it’s a great chance for them to set down a marker.”

Malta coach, Aaron McDonald, noted: “This is an important game for us, taking on another top 16 ranked nation. Lebanon have been a strong rugby league side for many years and will be looking to ramp up their own preparations for the World Cup.

“We want to ensure that we are continuing to improve and to challenge those ahead of us. We know we are in for a battle and are looking forward to it, and building on our recent victories against Macedonia and Montenegro.”

The match will be live-streamed, with details to follow.