World Rugby respond to reports of 'another World Cup' - Ruck

World Rugby respond to reports of ‘another World Cup’

World Rugby won’t pursue a proposal to stage an international tournament next year that could raise up to $500m for a financially beleaguered game.

The Telegraph reported yesterday the idea is the brainchild of Francis Baron, a former chief executive of the England Rugby Union. The idea has been put before England bosses and World Rugby.

“World Rugby notes a proposal by former RFU CEO Francis Baron suggesting the organisation of a major international rugby event in the UK in 2021 to alleviate the impact of COVID-19 on global rugby,” the statement said.

“World Rugby does not intend to pursue such a proposal. All stakeholders continue to progress productive discussions regarding the immediate global COVID-19 financial relief strategy and international rugby calendar optimisation, both of which will further the success of Rugby World Cup 2023 in France.”


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LIST | 5 players from abroad who could be capped by England in the future

These five have shown enough ability or promise to suggest they may be future England stars in waiting.

Foreign-born stars, such as Nathan Hughes and the Vunipola brothers, have already shown how integral they can be for the Red Rose after making the step up to International rugby.

Here are five players who could pull on the white jersey in the future:

1. Ruan Ackermann – Gloucester (South Africa)

His Dad Johan Ackermann, who departed as Gloucester boss for Japan earlier this month, confirmed that his son will be staying with the Cherry & Whites to persue international honours, and has already been in contact with Eddie Jones. The imposing number eight qualify for England on residency grounds in August 2020 — just four months before World Rugby’s new eligibility laws kick in.

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