Hosts Ireland seeded fifth for U-19 World Cup

THE schedule for the 2007 U-19 World Championship in Belfast has been confirmed by the IRB.

The pools and seedings have also been announced for next April’s tournament, with hosts Ireland seeded fifth thanks to their high finish in this year’s event.

The tournament runs from April 4-21. Ireland start against defending champions and top seeds Australia at Ravenhill on Thursday, April 5. Third seeds New Zealand face Wales at Ravenhill the same day.

Ireland also have pool matches against Scotland (April 9) and South Africa (April 13), both at Ravenhill. The Belfast ground will also host the third-fourth place play-off and the final on Saturday, April 21.

Tournament director Simon Jelowitz said: “The 2006 IRB U19 World Championship in Dubai was a huge success.

“Belfast has a tremendous opportunity to raise the bar. I’m sure next year’s tournament will be an impressive showcase of world class rugby and local hospitality.”

All 24 participating teams will be confirmed in January. The 24 teams play across six match venues in and around Belfast. The Division A matches will be played at Ravenhill, which was a host venue for the 1999 World Cup, Deramore Park, the home of Belfast Harlequins, and Instonians’ base of Shaw’s Bridge.

The three venues for Division B will be announced shortly with full broadcast schedule and ticket details.