Cain’s right, South Africa sport needs World Cup boost

NICK Cain made a compelling case for South Africa hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup (“World Cup vote would save Boks from disaster,” November 5).

Their game is struggling and the rugby community can do a great service for the game and humanity by voting to stage the World Cup there.

As with their cricket team, the SA rugby side needs a lift – as does their sport at grassroots level.

The declining value of the rand has hurt the sport with stars seeking overseas employment.

What is needed is an event that will attract the whole population to the oval ball game.

If South Africa are awarded the event, World Rugby should also show leadership by insisting that percentages (such as 15 or 20 per cent) of tickets are heavily discounted for the disadvantaged (ie citizens in black townships).

In other words, profit maximisation must not be the sole criterion and if Ireland do not stage the 2023 World Cup, they should have priority to host the World Cup in 2027.

The Irish have given much to the world game and deserve to stage the event in their own right not as a bolt on within another British bid. DAVID RIMMER Herts