World Rugby chiefs are set to delay the draw for future World Cups after the sport’s top five nations were pooled in the same half of this year’s tournament.
Only two of Ireland, hosts France, New Zealand, holders South Africa and Scotland can reach the semi-finals due to a draw made in 2020 based on seedings as they were after the last World Cup.
Paul Grayson, who won the 2003 tournament with England, claimed rugby had made itself a laughing stock with its out-of-date draw and said it must not be allowed to happen again.
In response, the sport’s governing body confirmed its intention for the draw to be held closer to future Rugby World Cups, starting with Australia 2027.
World Rugby said it is able to make the change because of a new ‘hosting model’ that sees the international federation create collaborations with the host union.
Defending the 2020 draw for France 2023, WR said it was made for a “number of important reasons” fundamental to the overall success of the tournament both on and off the field.
“The top of the men’s Test game has never been more competitive,” the spokesperson added. “There has never been so much movement over a two-year period.
“Bearing that in mind, and noting the format of four pools of five teams, there is arguably no perfect time for a draw.”
