Don’t judge Ireland’s ability to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup on the current performance of the national team. Take it from Kiwi World Cup winner Sean Fitzpatrick who believes we have the wherewithal to do it.

Leinster have finally ended the longer-than-expected process of bringing Brad Thorn to Dublin by signing the Kiwi World Cup winner on a three-month contract that shores up a gaping hole in their second-row.

New Zealand will host the 2011 Rugby World Cup after winning today’s vote by members of the International Rugby Board council.