Jonathan Neill, the event’s commercial director, believes consumer confidence is growing as the British Government continues to ease COVID-19 restrictions and is hopeful this will lead to more fans travelling to England.

Neill’s comments come after the Rugby League World Cup 2021 Organising Committee appointed Glory Days as its international fan travel provider.

The Edinburgh-based company has been given the task of working with approved agents from around the world to provide a range of ticket-inclusive experiences to give the international fan base a chance to be part of the World Cup.

"With 21 unique nations represented across our 32 participating teams, and millions of rugby league fans around the world, we are looking forward to welcoming international visitors to England next year," Neill said.

"Crowds are slowly coming back to sporting events which is providing added consumer confidence, so we hope Rugby League World Cup 2021 offers a world class event for people to plan for and look forward to.

"We will offer a full refund should there be Government restrictions which lead to reduced capacities or if the event is cancelled due to circumstances out of our control.

"We expect up to 10 per cent of our ticketed audience to be international fans and with Glory Days want to provide unforgettable and unique experiences within England, including at our 18 host towns and cities."

The partnership with Glory Days will support the tournament’s ambition to be the most fan-focused Rugby League World Cup ever, it is claimed.

A total of 61 matches across 21 venues are scheduled to be played between October 23 and November 27 next year.

Glory Days aims to provide a consumer retail programme for international fans, with a focus on emerging nations to build engagement.

"Glory Days is passionate about rugby league and the role that Rugby League World Cup 2021 can play in the sport," said Glory Days managing director Dave Hardy.

"With our expert knowledge and experience on international event travel we’re looking forward to working with the team and agents across the world to enhance the fan experience at the biggest and best Rugby League World Cup ever."

Official international fan travel experiences will be available on the tournament's website from September 1.