England lead the way, launching this year’s Rugby World Cup on the 18th of September when they take on Fiji at Twickenham (8pm BST). The hosts are seeking to relive their 2003 success when Johny Wilkinson’s spectacular drop-goal which saw them become champions. Approximately 2.3 million of the 2.45 million tickets have been sold for 48 games and at this current point in time, New Zealand are the favorites for the win. Wales are in a cutthroat group with Australia and England, while Scotland and Ireland also look like they could stand a chance to advance to the next round.
Breaking down the line ups
Fourth placed England and fifth placed Wales will meet in an immensely crucial match on the following weekend of the tournament. Group A includes two more sides in the top nine of the world rankings – second placed Fiji and Australia.
The 20 team Rugby World Cup, which runs until the 31st of October, will take place across England’s stadiums keeping us on the edge of our seats over the next month and a half. The Millennium Stadium, Exeter’s Sandy Park, Tiwickenham and Gloucester’s Kingsholm are the customary rugby grounds to host matches, while eight of the 13 spots are football stadiums.
Defending champions New Zealand go into the tournament as favourites, with South Africa, Australia and England chomping at the bit to be victors as well. Wales, France and Ireland have also been advertized as potential contenders, although one of the teams between Wales, Australia or England will be unsuccessful to reach the final eight as they happen to be in the same start out pool.
