Longer World Cup ‘will help players’

THE 2023 Rugby World Cup in France has officially been extended by one week to allow all teams at least five days preparation before each of their pool matches.

Squad sizes will also increase from 31 to 33 to improve playerwelfare standards.

The tournament will now run from September 8 to October 28 after reported pressure from player unions around the world. Both the Rugby Football Union and Premiership Rugby are said to be unhappy with the lack of discussion over the change, with both concerned at the potential impact on clubs.

World Rugby chairman Sir Bill Beaumont said: ‘This is a landmark day for Rugby World Cup and the sport. As a rugby father, former player, fan and administrator, player welfare is at the top of my agenda. Japan 2019 provided the best balance and best-ever welfare outcomes, but we still had a limited number of relatively short rest periods between some matches.’

The former England captain believes ‘this decision means that every player and every team will have a fairer chance to perform to their potential’. Emerging nations have often had less recovery time between games at World Cups but the pool phase will now include the additional rest-day requirement.

Former Ireland captain Brian O’Driscoll, the International Rugby Players representative on the RWC Board, said: ‘The game has become too physical and competitive for short turnarounds.

‘This positive step is a demonstration of how International Rugby Players and World Rugby can work together towards better outcomes.’