Rugby: Australia to be sole hosts of 2003 World Cup

The International Rugby Union has confirmed that Australia will be sole hosts of the 2003 World Cup.

New Zealand were due to co-host the event, but a dispute over stadia and advertising caused the IRB to intervene and make its decision.

John O’Neill, managing director of the Australian Rugby Union, claimed the New Zealand rugby authority was the "master of its own destiny".

He added: "Needless to say, there is some healing to be done and we will start that process by increasing the number of tickets available to New Zealand supporters to see the All Blacks play at the rugby World Cup."