Jamaica is the biggest movers in the world rankings released by the Rugby League International Federation on Friday, moving from 27th to 16th.

The Jamaicans jump in the rankings are a result of their recent spate of games against Canada (14th) and the USA (10th) plus their successful first-time matches in Europe against Ireland and Wales, who were ranked sixth and eighth respectively.

"We can justifiably be a top 10 nation with the cadre of UK and domestic based players we have," JRLA director of rugby Romeo Monteith told RLIF.com.

"Our incredible performances against Wales and Ireland leaves no doubt in my mind that our strategy now to play games in Europe annually, alongside matches in the Americas Championship, is the way forward.

"Rugby league needs excitement outside the top nations, and with our unique Caribbean flair we stand ready to rock the world with reggae rugby league."

Full Rankings

1. New Zealand

2. Australia

3. England

4. Samoa

5. France

6. Fiji

7. Ireland

8. Wales

9. Scotland

10. USA

11. Serbia

12. PNG

13. Tonga

14. Canada

15. Italy

16. Jamaica

17. Belgium

18. Russia

19. Spain

20. Malta

21. Lebanon

22. Cook Islands

23. Ukraine

24. Germany

25. Czech Republic

26. Norway

27. Denmark

28. Greece

29. Sweden

30. Netherlands

31. South Africa

32. Philippines

33. Niue

34. Chile

35. Vanuatu

36. Latvia

37. Solomon Islands

38. Hungary

39. El Salvador

40. Morocco

* The World Rankings are based upon the results in international matches over the past five years, with more recent results carrying a greater weighting. They also take into account the relative strength of the opponents and the level and type of competition.