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Originally Posted by Snippie
The host for the Rugby WC 2011 will be announced this afternoon.
The countries bidding for this is: South Africa, Japan and New Zealand
Most people agree that with their lack of infrastructure, Hotel Rooms and small stadia's NZ is basically out of the running. The only thing they have is a very big Rugby Culture, which does count for something, but if they are to host this, I'll be mightily surprised.
Japan is a strong contender. The IRB would like to expand the game to Asia, they have a very good Infrastructure with World Class Stadia's, but the fact that they aren't a Rugby playing Powerhouse, time zones, and that it is quite expensive to travel in Jap can count against their bid.
SA will have hosted the 2010 Football WC so will have the some of the world's best Stadias available. Very strong rugby playing nation, and they have backed the growing of the game throughout Africa by creating the African Leopards.
Most people think it will be a two-way fight between Japan and SA.
My heart wants it to come to SA, but I don't know, Japan has a strong case too, and who knows, NZ may surprise us...
But I will stand firm by my hope that SA will get it 
What's your thoughts, who do you think will clinch it? |
I don't buy into the whole "growing the sport in Asia" by having it in Japan. If it does go to Japan, it will be mainly because of the mighty dollar, not to globalize rugby. I've heard that argument a lot recently. But if you think about it, Japan have been playing professional rugby for years and have never been any good. Also the Hong 7s are played every year and although its 7s and not 15s , that hasn't seemed to strengthened Asian rugby 15s or 7s at all.
As far as the infrastructure problems in NZ are concerned.....Thats where its up to the NZ reps (including our prime minister) to try to convince the decision makers that with govt backing, they will have appropriate infrastructure in place. But I do agree at this stage NZ looks very thin in that dept.
I agree S.Africa have great stadiums, but IMO they have hosted in too recently to have in again in 2011. That would mean they have hosted 2 out of the last 5 world cups.
I think Japan will win the bid....but obviously hope NZ gets it.