One main reason why Semple Stadium omitted from Rugby World Cup bid

"There is no question of fans spending an hour on trains and two hours back in after a match."

Thurles’ Semple Stadium, the second largest GAA ground on the island, has been omitted from the list of twelve potential venues in Ireland’s bid to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup, writes Brendan O'Brien.

Semple’s 50,000-plus capacity would have been more than ample for matchday purposes - and its location was equally suitable - but a lack of sufficient accommodation in the town and the surrounding area saw it lose out.