Scotland withdraw bid for World Cup

Published 17 Dec 2009 11:06 0 Comments

SCOTTISH Rugby confirmed to the game's worldwide governing body, the International Rugby Board (IRB) that it has withdrawn from the bid process to host the Rugby World Cup Sevens in 2013.

This follows an extensive review of the bid documentation by Scottish Rugby where the importance of a lasting legacy for rugby in Scotland was a major consideration.

Scottish Rugby has, in evaluating the bid, held detailed discussions with the Scottish Government and a variety of partner agencies including broadcasters and has reached the decision that it is appropriate to withdraw from the process at this time.

Scottish Rugby Chief Executive, Gordon McKie, said: "We have analysed the bid documentation in great detail with the view to exploring every possible opportunity to create a winnable bid for Scotland.

"A lasting legacy for grassroots rugby in Scotland was paramount to a successful bid. Having engaged positively with the Scottish Government and our partner agencies we do not feel that we are in a position to continue with the process to submit a winnable bid for IRB RWC 7s 2013.

"In reviewing the bid documentation with the Scottish Government and our partner organisations, a number of opportunities, in respect of improved facilities for rugby in Scotland, were discussed.

"In addition, we have identified a number of other hurdles that would need to be overcome, including the appointment of a broadcaster on acceptable commercial and coverage terms.

"We very much look forward to continuing those discussions for the benefit of grassroots rugby development in the months ahead.

"With this announcement, we will move to channel our efforts into continuing the success of the IRB 7s World Series finale at Murrayfield in 2010 and 2011 and continue to work with our partners to ensure there is a lasting legacy for rugby across Scotland in the build up to and following the 2014 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, which will have 7s rugby as a core sport.

"I wish all those Unions continuing in the process every success as they compile their bids and thank the Scottish Government and our partners for their valuable support and input over the last few months."

Meanwhile, Scottish Rugby today announced the second round draw of the Scottish Hydro Regional Bowl.

Appearing in a new three-tier format for the first time since clubs voted to revamp the competition at the 2009 Scottish Rugby Union AGM, new Scottish Hydro Cup competition will see each league grouping contesting for the Scottish Hydro Premier Cup, National Shield and Regional Plate - with all three finals taking place at the home of Scottish Rugby on Saturday, April 24.

Scottish Rugby head of community rugby, Colin Thomson, said: "The drawing of the second round of the Scottish Hydro Regional Bowl heralds the beginning of the new competition format in earnest and presents a very exciting prospect for all of Scotland's clubs which will lead up to yet another fantastic finals day at Murrayfield next April.

Details for all 2009/10 Scottish Hydro League fixtures can be found at http://www.scottishrugby.org/community/content/view/1363/301/#

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