There were calls for a combined side from England, Wales, Ireland and Scotland to play in the next tournament after the home nations performed poorly at the 2000 event.

But Barrett says that would be the wrong move despite the fact that the Kangaroos were hardly tested on their way to a sixth successive world crown.

"It is important for the game as a whole if the likes of England and Wales play us individually," the St George Illawarra star told BBC Sport Online.

"Great Britain have just given us three really good games but you have to think about the wider picture.

"England are certainly competitive while New Zealand are always very tough to beat.

"But the other teams are not very strong at the moment and would benefit from playing us on their own."

Meanwhile, Barrett is hopeful that Chris Anderson will be able to continue as Australia coach despite suffering a heart attack in the third and deciding Test in Wigan.

"It's a hard job being the coach of the world champions - it's certainly something that I would not like to do - but Chris is a fighter," said Barrett.

"This won't beat him and everyone is saying a few prayers and keeping their fingers crossed."