SYDNEY, July 22 (Xinhua) -- Old sporting rivals are set to clash at the upcoming Rugby League 9s World Cup in Australia, with the all important group pools announced at a launch event in Sydney on Monday.

Group A will consist of Australia, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and the United States, Group B will include England, France, Lebanon and Wales and Group C will be Tonga, Samoa, Fiji and Cook Islands.

"The World Cup 9s will feature the most exciting players to watch in the game, representing their nations and their cultures," National Rugby League chief executive Todd Greenberg said.

Rugby League 9s is a condensed version of Rugby League which sees only nine players to a side and shorter playing times, making for a faster and more intense experience.

Western Sydney's Bankwest Stadium in the State of New South Wales (NSW), will host the action, with tens of thousands of fans expected to turn out in support of their side.

"NSW is the proud home of rugby league in Australia, and the World Cup 9s will reinforce why teams and spectators love our State to host these big games," NSW Minister for Sport John Sidoti said.

"This format is fast-paced and exciting, and there's no doubt that rugby fans around the globe will be envious of anyone at the ground in Western Sydney."

Tickets also went on sale for select members on Monday with the action scheduled to kick off in October. Enditem