World Rugby has insisted providing developing nations with higher-level matches more frequently is at the “top of our agenda”.
The inspirational displays of teams such as Portugal at the Rugby World Cup – alongside the disappointing efforts of Italy – have intensified debate on the global game’s structure. Portugal sensationally defeated Fiji on Sunday for their first win at the tournament, after a thrilling draw with Georgia earlier in Pool C, along with dynamic performances in defeats by Wales and Australia.
