Australia, NZ Finalists To Host 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup

Australia and New Zealand "have each been shortlisted" as a potential host of the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup, according to James Diamond of INSIDE THE GAMES. World Rugby made the announcement on Monday. Initially, six countries expressed a formal interest in hosting the event, "which was the highest number ever." However, none of England, Wales, France or Portugal submitted a bid. The '21 tournament will be "the first to feature various format changes," which include extending the event from 23 days to 35. A quarterfinal stage will also be played for the first time, while the squad sizes will increase from 28 to 30 players. No country in the southern hemisphere has ever hosted the event (INSIDE THE GAMES, 8/13).