Held in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, it was a TV ratings winner. It was played in front of packed stadiums in Darwin, Hamilton, Auckland and Port Moresby and had its share of massive upsets and headline-grabbing moments.

It might not have hit the lofty heights of the 2013 tournament in the UK, the most successful in the game's history, but it was positive on so many fronts.

The rise of Tonga, the rebirth of England, the demise of New Zealand, the surprise of Lebanon, a credible Ireland, entertaining contests, new stars emerged, the charge of the Kumuls - you name it.

All up 382,080 people attended matches, demonstrating there is a desire and need for international rugby league.

So was has happened since Australia edged the final in Brisbane on December 2?

Bugger all.

Once again, rugby league's biggest problem is itself. Or more pointedly, the NRL.

Common sense would dictate that after that epic Tonga vs Samoa match in Hamilton, the two teams would face off at the same venue again this year. They are not.

The Kiwis were embarassed at the World Cup and a revenge match against Tonga, on New Zealand soil, would garner huge interest both there and abroad. Has this been arranged? It has not.

Considering the New Zealand Rugby League, the sport's governing body, has run out of money and is in dire need of funds, this is madness.

Then there is the proposed Test between New Zealand and England in Denver in June. We are told that this will help spread the word before the World Cup goes to the United States and Canada in 2025.