The current World Cup holders top the leaderboard, despite a 31-25 loss to England last year in Apt.

England are just behind them in second, having defeated France and then completed an unbeaten five-match tour of Australia.

English captain Jack Brown was also recognised as the world's best player after receiving the first IRL Wheelchair Rugby League Golden Boot award.

Wales are third, Australia fourth and Italy fifth. 

At the bottom of the standings are Scotland in sixth, Spain in seventh and Ireland in eighth.

The world rankings only consider full international matches played over the past four-year period and are based upon the result of the game and the strength of the opponent, with the most recent results carrying the most weight. 

World Cup games carry more weight than standard international matches.

The ranking has been released one year in advance of the next Wheelchair Rugby League World Cup, scheduled to take place in England in November 2021. 

Competition is set to feature holders France, hosts England, Australia, Scotland, Spain and Wales. 

Norway and the United States are also set to make their World Cup debuts, which will see both teams added to the world rankings.