Former Kiwis captain Richie Barnett has rolled out the red carpet for the 17th edition of rugby league's World Cup starting tonight in Sydney. 

The 10-team men's tournament begins with defending champions Australia hosting New Zealand in Group A. 

Barnett told Mike Hosking the emergence of Samoa and Tonga as genuine contenders has been a coup for the international game. 

He says based on what they're seeing on paper, those two teams are incredible, as are the Kiwis, so he's very optimistic. 

He says it's going to be the best and most competitive World Cup he's ever seen. 

LISTEN ABOVE 

Former Kiwis captain Richie Barnett has rolled out the red carpet for the 17th edition of rugby league's World Cup starting tonight in Sydney.&nbsp;
The 10-team men's tournament begins with defending champions Australia hosting New Zealand in Group A.&nbsp;
Barnett told Mike Hosking the emergence of Samoa and Tonga as genuine contenders has been a coup for the international game.&nbsp;
He says based on what they're seeing on paper, those two teams are incredible, as are the Kiwis, so he's very optimistic.&nbsp;
He says it's going to be the best and most competitive World Cup he's ever seen.&nbsp;
LISTEN ABOVE&nbsp;

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Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show. Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda. The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion, delivers the best talent, and always leaves you wanting more. The Mike Hosking Breakfast always cuts through and delivers the best daily on Newstalk ZB.

Open your mind to the world with New Zealand’s number one breakfast radio show.Without question, as New Zealand’s number one talk host, Mike Hosking sets the day’s agenda.The sharpest voice and mind in the business, Mike drives strong opinion,...

The Mike Hosking Breakfast

Richie Barnett: Former Kiwis Captain ahead of the Rugby League World Cup kicking off

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/7784f840-c291-422a-924b-ad9000bbad71/clips/f1dab55c-dff9-495a-ad21-b4e30145a3fe/transcript