2023 BIDDER CHALLENGES WELCOMED

WORLD Rugby has acknowledged Ireland’s behind-the-scenes challenges to the recommendation that South Africa host the 2023 World Cup.

Ireland’s chief executive Philip Browne (above) is understood to have written to the body for clarification on the independent process that led to today’s visitors to Dublin being tipped as the preferred 2023 host. That has left France and Ireland trailing, ahead of the member unions’ vote on Wednesday.

But has issued a statement to reassert their confidence in the bidding process for the tournament.

“World Rugby can confirm that it has addressed in full, clarification requests by the Rugby World Cup 2023 host candidates and council members,” read a statement last night.

Its chairman Bill Beaumont insisted they hey had been happy to hear the concerns of the rival bidders.

He added: “In order for council to have appropriate time to consider all the materials, the window for dialogue is now closed. “We now look forward to council making its decision in London on

November 15.”