World Cup favourites start as they mean to go on

The day after hosts Australia got the defence of their World Cup crown off to a winning start, the side favoured by bookies to dethrone them, New Zealand, launched their own campaign against Italy in Melbourne.

World Cup favourites start as they mean to go on
Sat, 11 Oct, 2003 - 07:23

The day after hosts Australia got the defence of their World Cup crown off to a winning start, the side favoured by bookies to dethrone them, New Zealand, launched their own campaign against Italy in Melbourne.

The two nations have a long World Cup history, after meeting in the opening game of the inaugural World Cup in 1987.

You have reached your article limit. Already a subscriber? Sign in

Continue reading for €5

Unlock unlimited access and exclusive benefits

CONNECT WITH US TODAY

Whatsapp logo

WHATSAPP

Newsletter logo

NEWSLETTERS

Notification logo

NOTIFICATIONS

Be the first to know the latest news and updates

More in this section

Vodacom Bulls v Munster - United Rugby Championship Provinces look to Europe again on back of mixed fortunes
Munster v Gloucester - Investec Champions Cup Munster to play Champions Cup game in Pairc UĂ­ Chaoimh next season - if they qualify
Super Rugby Pacific Rd 11 - Reds v Blues IRFU set to up chase for 'Australia’s strongest' rugby prospect
CourtsRugbyRWC2019Place: MelbournePlace: HuddersfieldPlace: New ZealandPlace: Telstra DomePerson: John KirwanPerson: ItaliansPerson: Doug HowlettPerson: Joe RokocokoPerson: John MitchellPerson: Brad ThornPerson: Ali WilliamsPerson: Daniel CarterPerson: Aaron MaugerPerson: KirwanPerson: Alessandro TronconPerson: Carlo ChecchinatoPerson: Scott PalmerPerson: Carlos SpencerPerson: Tana UmagaPerson: RokocokoPerson: HowlettPerson: ThornPerson: Keven MealamuPerson: Reuben ThornePerson: SpencerPerson: Nicola MazzucatoEvent: World CupEvent: WorldOrganisation: AustraliaOrganisation: New ZealandOrganisation: ItalyOrganisation: All BlacksOrganisation: CanterburyOrganisation: All Black
<p>RG Snyman of Leinster in action against Johnny Ventisei of Glasgow Warriors. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile</p>

RG Snyman ruled out for season after suffering third ACL rupture 

READ NOW

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Latest

Sport

Newsletter

Latest news from the world of sport, along with the best in opinion from our outstanding team of sports writers. and reporters

Donal Lenihan
Donal Lenihan

Inside rugby

Most Read

Cookie Policy Privacy Policy Brand Safety FAQ Help Contact Us Terms and Conditions

© Examiner Echo Group Limited