Rugby World Cup Daily – Sunday, 17 August

1. All you need to know ahead of #RWC2025

More tickets have already been sold for Rugby World Cup 2025 than any other edition of the tournament, with fans planning their trips to and around England while players jostle for their shot at glory.

For those of you who are new to our sport, why not have a read of our explainer, which goes over the teams, the history, and the trophy ahead of the opening match in Sunderland on Friday night.

There’s also a little bit on the most successful team over the years as well as the cities that will play host over these next few weeks!

2. BBC unveil all-star line-up for those watching at home in the UK

For those in the UK who are unable to get to a game, you’re still in for a treat based on the line-up the BBC has unveiled for the tournament.

From legendary former players like Maggie Alphonsi and Katy Daley-McLean, to broadcasting royalty in the form of Gabby Logan and Ugo Monye who will lead things, there really is a powerhouse of sporting knowledge assembled.

Also part of the action will be New Zealand’s Rugby World Cup champion Ruby Tui, who said: “The last Women’s Rugby World Cup was one of the most historic sporting events in the world and I can’t wait to do it again and then some this time with the BBC team.”

3. Alphonsi ‘jealous but proud’ ahead of #RWC2025

Speaking of Alphonsi, she sat down with us for an interview where she discussed how excited she is for Rugby World Cup 2025, even if she is a little jealous of the experience the players will have.

Things were slightly different when Alphonsi lifted the title at Rugby World Cup 2014, but she is happy to see the foundations she and her team-mates laid bearing fruit in the present day.

“I’m so jealous, and I wish I was still playing to be honest,” the former flanker said. “But I am just pleased that me and many others were part of that small slice of progress that enabled it to go in the right direction.”

Click here for the full article.

4. Rugby World Cup rewind: England and Canada play out a semi-final classic

England beat Canada in the final of Rugby World Cup 2014 in France to lift their second title, and the Red Roses defeated the same opposition at the semi-final stage at the last edition.

Why not have a look back on one of the all-time classic Rugby World Cup knockout games, which saw England through to a final they would ultimately lose to New Zealand by the narrowest of margins.

5. Scrum: Women in Rugby exhibition

Ahead of what promises to be the most exciting tournament to date, there will also be a chance for those in Northampton to look back on the women’s game over the years.

A new exhibition, titled ‘Scrum: Women in Rugby’ opened at Northampton Museum and Art Gallery on Friday and will stay open until 2 November, five weeks after the final at Allianz Stadium on 27 September.

The exhibition will feature photos, videos and installations that highlight the ever-growing popularity of women’s rugby in Northamptonshire.

“What we wanted to do was have a look at the history of the game but also what’s happening now,” curator Victoria Davies said.

6. Rugby World Cup fever starts to grip

Those who want to get a real taste of #RWC2025 fever can head to various fan parks around the country, as well as find wachalongs up and down the United Kingdom.

Canada Square Park in Canary Wharf has announced it will be showing all the games, with screenings free to attend, just go along with a picnic blanket and go watch some of the best rugby players on the planet do their thing!

Here’s a reminder of where you can also find the official fan zones around the country.

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