WARRINGTON South MP Faisal Rashid has welcomed the news that the town will play host to the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

Three group games during the sport’s showpiece event will be held at Warrington Wolves’ Halliwell Jones Stadium, it was announced on Tuesday.

And the entirety of the inaugural Physical Disability Rugby League World Cup will also be held in the town.

And Faisal Rashid, MP for Warrington South, has hailed the announcement as an ‘exciting opportunity to showcase the town on an international stage’.

He said: “I am absolutely delighted to hear that Warrington has been successful in its bid to part host the 2021 Rugby League World Cup and to host the PDRL World Cup.

“I backed the town’s bid for the games, and I am thrilled that we are being given the fantastic opportunity not only to host three of the men’s group games at the Rugby League World Cup, but to also host all of the games in the PDRL World Cup.

“Warrington has played a key role in raising awareness and developing the launch and growth of PDRL – the very first match was held in Warrington and attracted over 1,000 spectators, another fantastic addition to Warrington’s rugby legacy.

“Congratulations to everyone who was involved in the bid, this is very exciting news for our town – it brings a wealth of opportunities and gives us a chance to showcase Warrington on the international stage.

“Rugby league is a tremendous sport and it deserves the increasing recognition it is getting.

“I am incredibly proud of Warrington’s legacy as a rugby league town, and I know that Warrington will prove to be an excellent host for the games.”