Lebanon's league stars looking to change perceptions

Robbie Farah, Tim Mannah and Michael Lichaa have played a combined 548 NRL matches - experience that will be vital for Lebanon at this year's Rugby League World Cup.

From left: Robbie Farah, Tim Mannah and Michael Lichaa flying the flag for Lebanon. Source: Lebanon Rugby League

It will be the nation's first appearance at the tournament in 17 years, and the Cedars plan on making a statement on and off the field.

Farah, Mannah and Lichaa will be looking to change perceptions about their culture.

"Without sugar-coating it, there are times in this country that the Lebanese community does get a bad name and it's been in the media for all the wrong reasons," Farah said.

"We've got an opportunity to be in the media for the right reasons."

The players plan on visiting Lebanon following the tournament. 

"See a bit of where we originate from. I've never been there before so it would be a really good experience," Mannah said.

Lebanon kicks off its campaign against France in Canberra on October 29.

That is followed by pool games against England and Australia in Sydney.