Australian rugby has had few wins to celebrate in recent years but on Friday rejoiced in a big one after being confirmed host of the 2027 World Cup and the 2029 women’s tournament.
Two years after financial turmoil forced serious consideration of a return to amateurism, Australia can now hope that the worst is past and the game can reverse a decline in fortunes since hosting the 2003 tournament.
George Gregan, who captained the Wallabies to a runner-up finish in 2003, said the World Cups provided the perfect opportunity to reboot the game.
“It’s a really good stepping stone to launch for the future,” the 49-year-old former scrumhalf told reporters in Sydney.
“You maximise the opp …
- May 13, 2022
