World Cup bid chief fears Australian rugby could become ‘third-tier sport’

Kearns has become executive bid director for Australia’s tilt at hosting the tournament in seven years’ time.

Australian rugby could become a “third-tier sport” unless the Wallabies host the World Cup in 2027, according to two-time tournament winner Phil Kearns.

Kearns has become executive bid director for Australia’s tilt at hosting the tournament in seven years’ time, and the 67-cap former hooker feels the nation is in dire need of a chance to stage the global contest.