The International Rugby League (IRL) rankings are based on results in international matches. Points are awarded for wins and draws, with the value of a result weighted by the ranking of the opponent. Higher-ranked opponents yield more points when beaten.
Australia have topped the rankings for the majority of the professional era, with New Zealand and England consistently in the top three. The rise of Pacific Island nations — particularly Tonga and Samoa — has been one of the most significant developments in international rugby league in recent years.