Some teams have their eyes on a trophy, while others are prioritising longer-term gains. BBC Sport assesses what success looks like at a Rugby League World Cup that comes at a pivotal time for the international game.
England's new men's head coach Brian Mc Dermott has sounded a note of hope going into the tournament. "Do I believe we can win? It's not a no," he said. For now, everybody harbours a dream. Not everyone taking part in the men's, women's and wheelchair tournaments over the next month expects to come away with a winner's medal, but all have a target for success. For some, it is a title. For others, it is showing progress or creating a legacy.
The men's competition kicks off first, with reigning champions Australia facing New Zealand in a Sydney blockbuster dubbed a potential dress rehearsal for the final. Both will have their sights on lifting the trophy in Brisbane on 15 November. Australia's women, seeking a fourth successive title, begin their campaign against Samoa in Sydney. England, meanwhile, have high hopes of retaining their wheelchair title, starting against Wales in Wollongong.
Four years ago, England's men suffered a gut-wrenching 27-26 golden-point semi-final defeat by Samoa at Emirates Stadium. Series wins over Tonga and Samoa banished some of those memories, but last autumn brought a 3-0 home series loss to Australia, which led to Shaun Wane's departure. Mc Dermott, who is seeking to lead England to only their second final since 1995, had not even had a training session with his players before their arrival Down Under. Despite limited preparation, England have hope of reaching a fourth final if they find their rhythm. Their 23-man squad boasts Dolphins star Herbie Farnworth, arguably the best centre in the world.
Source: BBC Sport · Summarized by HeadlinesBriefing