Known as the Americas Cup, the three-way competition will crown the champions of the region.

Canada will play Jamaica in the first match on July 16 at Levitown, Pennsylvania, before the Americans square off with the Reggae Warriors on July 23 in Philadelphia.

Canada will then host the Americans at Lamport Stadium in Toronto on September 24, in a match which will also serve as the first leg of the Colonial Cup which is contested between the two countries.

The second leg will take place on October 1 in the US, with the Americans favourites after reaching the quarter-finals of the 2013 World Cup.

Last year, all three countries played in regional qualifying for the 2017 World Cup in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea, with the Americans, coached by Leeds Rhinos boss Brian McDermott, gaining the sole berth on offer.

USA Rugby League chairman Peter Illfield said: "The previous games between us in the World Cup qualifiers were sensational; we only just beat Jamaica who then held Canada to a draw, with the Wolverines leading us at half time in the decider.

"Having rivals in such close proximity provides a healthy environment for success, extra motivation for our players, and further expansion of the sport.”

Canada captain Steve Piatek added: "This competition is crucial to the development of the game in the region, gaining us increased exposure and credibility.

"It will provide a pathway for the athletes being produced by each nation.”

Jamaica head coach Romeo Monteith said the Americas Cup would give players a "meaningful international calendar".

"We hope it will become a regular series," he said.