Lawrence Dallaglio: European nations never closer to southern hemisphere giants

Lawrence Dallaglio said the gap between the northern and southern hemispheres has never been narrower (Richard Sellers/PA)

Lawrence Dallaglio believes the gap with the southern hemisphere has never been narrower to offer European nations hope a year out from the World Cup.

A tournament that begins with a monumental clash between hosts France and New Zealand in Paris on September 8 has never been more open with as many as six teams capable of winning.