Hireme-Smiler, who earned 32 Kiwi Ferns caps over the past 18 years and played in four World Cups, has been appointed to spread the message about the event, particularly in the Southern Hemisphere.

Since retiring last year, Hireme-Smiler has maintained her links to the sport through coaching women’s and girls’ teams and commentating for Sky Sport NZ.

Hireme-Smiler joins fellow ambassadors Jason Robinson, Adam Hills, James Simpson, Jodie Cunningham, Kevin Sinfield, Lois Forsell, Luke Gale, Oliver Thomasson and Robbie Hunter-Paul.

"The growth of the World Cup since my first tournament in 2003 has been incredible, and the plans for 2021 will no doubt give the women’s game the perfect platform to continue that global growth," said Hireme-Smiler.

"The three tournaments - men’s, women’s and wheelchair - being staged at the same time is already monumental in the sports history so I can’t wait to help to spread the world in my new role."

Jon Dutton, chief executive of RLWC2021, commented: "Honey has been a trailblazer for women’s sport and we’re over the moon she’s going to help represent the tournament as our latest Ambassador.

"Inclusivity is at the core of our values as a tournament and Honey will be an ideal voice to positively promote what will be the biggest and best Rugby League World Cup in history."

The 2021 Rugby League World Cup is scheduled to run from October 23 to November 27.