July 2008

Ten Nations One Cup

18 games, 12 venues, 10 teams and 1 Cup: 2008 is a history-making year for rugby league as Australia hosts the 13th Rugby League World Cup

The history of the Rugby League World Cup may be brief but it’s an event that has seen the best of Rugby League-playing nations compete for the top spot ever since it was first contested in France in 1954. Great Britain took home the inaugural cup but in more recent times, it’s Australia’s Kangaroos that have been the team to beat.

The Kangaroos have been a dominating force over the past 33-years and are set to defend its top spot in international rugby league when Australia hosts the 2008 World Cup.

Between October 25 and November 22, 10 nations will compete in 18 matches across 12 venues in three states and the ACT in their quest to become World Champions, a title Australia has held since 1975. Jetstar is the Official Airline of the Cup, a commitment which will see Jetstar fly every player from every team once based in Australia, to each game of this sport’s premier global event.

The opening match of the 2008 tournament will be between England and Papua New Guinea in Townsville, in what will be only the second time Australia has hosted the World Cup. Australia last played host in 1977 when it also won the Cup narrowly beating Great Britain 13-12 at the Sydney Cricket Ground.

Australia’s Cup defense begins on day two of the tournament on Sunday, October 26, when they face New Zealand at the Sydney Football Stadium. Their next clash is one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches when they come up against England, at the Telstra Dome in Melbourne on Sunday, November 2. This game is sure to be a sell-out as sports-mad Melburnians get their hands on these sought-after tickets.

The tournament will culminate with the Final at Brisbane’s Suncorp Stadium on Saturday, November 22.

Whether you’re a rugby league fan or just love sport, this entertaining event guarantees to deliver a sporting experience oozing pride, passion and excitement.