Rugby World Cup - Sports triumph

THE Rugby World Cup that ended with a New Zealand victory on Saturday was a triumph in more ways than one.

There were record crowds, the All Blacks became the first nation to defend their title, and television viewing figures around the world surpassed all expectations.

The staging by England was superb and, combined with the quality of playing, ensured that 2015 was undoubtedly the best of the eight world cups so far.

There were thrills and spills aplenty with Japan causing the biggest shock on the opening weekend by beating South Africa.

All of the above will go a long way to ensuring that rugby takes its place among global sports.

At home, TV3 deserves congratulations for excellent coverage with an engaging television panel and well informed commentators adding to the spectacle.

Even with its mildly irritating 30-second commercials, the station showed it is a match for RTÉ when it comes to major sporting events.