A new country is aiming to qualify for the Rugby World Cup - Ruck

A new country is aiming to qualify for the Rugby World Cup

With the aim of reaching a Rugby World Cup, the sport will turn professional in Columbia from 2021.

So far, they’ve identified 50 players for their 2023 qualifiers, including highly-rated Agen lock Andrés Zafra, who currently plays in the Top 14.

According to reports, they’re continuing to search for experienced players that may be eligible to represent them as they aim to qualify for the sports showpiece by 2031.

Colombia are ranked seventh in the Americas Rankings, and will need to climb significantly to have a realistic chance of qualifying.

Their initial aim is to narrow the gap between Los Tucanes on the one hand and Brazil and Chile on the other.

The union subsequently hopes that the 50 players will match Brazil and Chile in 2024, beat them in the RWC 2027 qualifiers and qualify for RWC 2031.


JOIN THE RUCK:


LIST | 4 England internationals you didn’t realise are still playing

Below, we have rounded up four familiar faces that we are certain you will be surprised to learn are still playing for English teams.

Did we miss anybody particularly noteworthy? Make sure you let us know in the comments below. 

1. Tom Varndell

National League 2 South Bury St Edmunds RUFC have confirmed the signing of former England international Tom Varndell as a coach and player for next season. Still the Premiership’s record try-scorer with 92 from 180 appearances, primarily from spells at Leicester and Wasps – two of the most successful clubs in the modern era – the 34-year-old had looked to have played his last game after departing Yorkshire Carnegie.

CONTINUES ON PAGE 2