Japan, New Zealand and South Africa bid for World Cup

JAPAN, New Zealand and South Africa have confirmed their intention to tender for the right to host Rugby World Cup 2011.

Having signed confidentiality agreements in September 2004 and received a tender manual and host union agreement from the IRB, the trio met the deadline of January 31 for submitting written confirmation of their intention to bid for the game’s showpiece event.

Syd Millar, chairman of the IRB said: “The fact that three member unions have signalled their intention to tender for the same tournament reflects the growing prestige of Rugby World Cup.”