IRFU bet on World Cup win

IN what amounts to a no-lose bet, the IRFU has insured itself against the cost of success for the Irish rugby team at this year’s World Cup.

IRFU chiefs confirmed that through their relationship with sponsors Paddy Power, the union effectively takes out an insurance policy on the performance of the side during rugby’s global showpiece every four years.

The news comes following revelations that the English RFU have placed bets totalling around £250,000 (€284,000) via a consortium of bookmakers to cover player and management win bonuses should England be successful in New Zealand during September and October.