The International Federation wants the event to happen in March rather than the traditional end-of-season slot.

"They should probably play it after the season," said Brisbane Broncos chief executive Bruno Cullen.

Wests Tigers chief Steve Noyce added: "We've asked for information of the business plan. There were concerns."

NRL chief executive David Gallop argued that a pre-season World Cup would benefit the fans.

"Obviously there are some concerns," he told the Sydney Daily Telegraph.

"There's a tension there that doesn't only exist in rugby league, it exists in other sports, between the demands of clubs and representative commitments."