9/11 dead to be remembered

A MINUTE’S silence honouring the dead from the September 11, 2001 terror attacks will be held prior to the United States’ opening World Cup match against Ireland, IRB president Bernard Lapasset has said.

“We have put in place a system that will allow us to commemorate September 11, which is respectful of the memory of those who died and notably the rugby family who were touched by this tragic event,” said the Frenchman.

Lapasset also said there would be special banners adorning the stadium in New Plymouth.

The IRB were unable to confirm whether the two other matches on September 11 — Australia against Italy in North Harbour and defending champions South Africa against Wales in Wellington — would also be preceded by a minute’s silence.