Perhaps they should call it the Eden Project. The best team in the world, hoping to affirm their exalted status in front of a passionate audience at Auckland’s Eden Park on 12 November. And, in the process, helping to raise the profile of women’s rugby to fresh heights. The next six weeks, in all sorts of ways, could redefine how millions perceive rugby and those who play it.
No biggie, then. Just a World Cup that, given a fair North Island breeze, could conceivably reach parts that other tournaments have failed to reach. Anyone who witnessed the spiralling profile of England’s Lionesses as they advanced towards their Euros success in July knows these are unprecedented times for female sport. Starting this weekend it is rugby’s turn to join the overdue party.
