Australia have reclaimed the world number one spot ©Getty Images

Australia have reclaimed the number one spot in the Rugby League International Federation (RLIF) world rankings after their victory in the Four Nations tournament.

The Kangaroos beat rivals New Zealand 34-8 in the final on Sunday (November 20) at Anfield in Liverpool, and jumped above the Kiwis in the standings in the process.

New Zealand, who have slipped to second, became the only team other than Australia to reach the summit in 2015 when they won the Anzac Test between the two nations.

"It is nice to have the number one position now, we tend to talk about process in the build-up but it is satisfying; the pressure’s on us now to stay there and we are very confident we can handle it," said Australia coach Mal Meninga.

"We look in good shape for the World Cup next year."

England and Scotland, the other two teams who played in the Four Nations, are third and fourth respectively in the rankings.

The Scots are the biggest movers after jumping from ninth into the top four, their highest-ever placing.

Scotland have climbed to fourth after their draw with New Zealand ©Getty Images
Scotland have climbed to fourth after their draw with New Zealand ©Getty Images

This comes after they became the first country to avoid defeat against one of the top three nations since Papua New Guinea in 1990, thanks to a 18-18 Four Nations draw with New Zealand in Workington on November 11.

Scotland Rugby League chairman Keith Hogg said the climb in the standings was an "exciting moment".

"It is testament to the hard work that so many players, staff and volunteers have put into the establishment and development of our national team over many years, especially long-serving head coach Steve McCormack and skipper Danny Brough who provided so many fantastic memories during the Four Nations," said Hogg.

"This is a real boost for the sport in Scotland and everyone involved will be working hard to make the most of the increased exposure this landmark brings."

Samoa are fifth in the rankings, with France, Fiji, Ireland, Wales and the United States following in that order.

The US and Canada - who are 12th - are inside the top 12 for the first time.

Both countries were awarded the 2025 World Cup at the RLIF Congress in Liverpool on November 19.

The 2016 international season has featured the most accredited international matches since the official rankings began.