Four years after New Zealand defeated France 8–7 in the final, the world of rugby union turns its eyes toward England, host country of the 8th Rugby World Cup.
For most Americans, rugby is a foreign sport that bears a passing resemblance to American football. Here, two teams of 15 players take the field for two, 40-minute halves. Similar to football, the object of the game is to get the ball into the opponent’s end zone, with defenders tackling offensive players in possession. Unlike the gridiron variety, rugby union is less structured on positions and allows players to run, kick and pass the ball, though only lateral and backward passes are allowed.
This year’s tournament will take place in 13 stadiums across England, with the final rounds held in Cardiff’s Millennium Stadium and London’s Twickenham Stadium. Australia, South Africa, New Zealand and France make up Band 1 (the top seeds of each qualifier pool). The United States is in Pool B, led by South Africa and followed by Samoa, Scotland and Japan.
The 2015 Rugby World Cup begins Sept.18, with the final taking place Oct. 31. The United States will be playing Pool B matches Sept. 20 against Samoa; Sept. 27 against Scotland; Oct. 7 against South Africa; and Oct. 11 against Japan.
NRL Grand Final at ANZ Stadium, Sydney, Australia © Vselenka | Dreamstime
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