Meninga

Previously, the growth of Origin to an all-conquering giant had an eclipsing effect on the international game, but the enthusiasm of Australia head coach Mal Meninga and the appetite of the players themselves has led to a more focused push for Tests.

The Jillaroos were at their dazzling, skilful best in the final, with Meninga among many watching on in admiration.

Meninga pointed to Australia's reaction - extending their lead courtesy of Cameron Murray's try during that period - as evidence of the superiority of his side.

Mal Meninga says it is "only the beginning" for his Australia side after they won their third successive World Cup title with a 30-10 victory over Samoa at Old Trafford.

"If you go back to the 1970s, we've got a 90% winning record. It's been a dominant time for an Australia team and I think we accept that really well as a group," said Meninga, who has won multiple World Cups as a player and coach.