RFL 'exploring options' after Samoa turn down tour of England in 2024
- Published
The RFL has said they will update fans when there are "positive developments"
The Rugby Football League says it is "exploring all options" after Samoa turned down its invite for a three-match series in England next autumn.
It means England currently have no international fixtures scheduled for 2024.
Samoa instead intend to compete in the 2024 edition of the Pacific Shield alongside the likes of Australia, New Zealand, Fiji and Papua New Guinea.
RFL chair Simon Johnson said the decision was "disappointing".
"We can't afford to dwell on it. They have made their decision," he said.
"We now owe it to Shaun Wane and the players, and to England supporters, to deliver meaningful international rugby league in 2024, and we are working with RL Commercial and [governing body] the IRL to make that happen.
"We'll make further announcements as soon as there are any positive developments."
England won their series 3-0 against Tonga, which was held in October and November in St Helens, Huddersfield and Leeds.
Both England's men's and women's teams will tour Australia in 2025.
New Zealand and Australia have also agreed to visit England in consecutive years after the 2026 World Cup.
The hunt is on for the UK's next rap star: DJ Target, Krept and Konan are back for a fifth series
What was Elton John and Bernie Taupin's unusual song writing process? The lyricist reveals it all in This Cultural Life
