American Marconi Wireless News - Rugby World Cup draw set for December 3

Twenty-four teams will be divided into six pools of four, with a bumper 52 games across six weeks from October 1 to November 13. A round of 16 will be played for the first time.

The last World Cup in France, won by South Africa, featured 20 teams.

"I'm thrilled to see the tournament draw date revealed," said World Rugby chairman Brett Robinson.

"Expanding the men's Rugby World Cup to 24 teams is a landmark moment for our sport. It means more nations, more matches, and more opportunities for fans around the world to connect with rugby."

World Rugby rankings at the end of the November international window will be used to determine which teams head each of the six groups, making every win crucial ahead of the draw.

South Africa are currently ranked one ahead of Ireland, New Zealand, France, England and Argentina, with hosts Australia seventh. Scotland, Fiji and Italy round out the top 10.

The top two from each pool plus the four best third-placed teams will qualify for the knockout phase.

"The introduction of a round of 16 will deliver even more knockout rugby, ensuring every match counts and every team has the chance to make history," said Robinson.

"Importantly, we've been able to achieve this within a streamlined tournament window that protects player welfare while enhancing the spectacle.

"This is a huge step forward for rugby and a reflection of the game's global growth."

Sydney had already been announced to host the final and both semi-finals, along with a third-place playoff and a string of other knockout and pool stage games.

The rest of the schedule is split between Brisbane, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, Adelaide and Townsville.

Some 2.5 million tickets will go on sale in February, with one million priced under AUS$100 (US$66) in a bid to make it the most family-friendly tournament yet.

T.Ward--AMWN