With just over one month to go until the start of Rugby World Cup 2015, the Organising Committee, England Rugby 2015, has started its final phase of testing and readiness in preparation for the start of the tournament.
The past year has seen a robust programme of testing, preparation and observations at various tournament venues around the country. This has included in-venue testing and observation during England v Samoa at Twickenham Stadium in November 2014, England v France in the Under-20s Six Nations at Brighton Community Stadium in March 2015, The BUCS Rugby Championships Final at Twickenham Stadium in March 2015 and Northampton Saints v Saracens at Stadium MK in April 2015.
This phase of testing included desktop exercises, simulations and observations to test all aspects of delivery. These exercises included full stakeholder representation from Rugby World Cup Limited, host cities and match venues through to blue light services.
The next month will see the final preparations ahead of the start of the tournament, which will include testing transport, spectator experience and accreditation processes and elements to ensure the best possible experience for teams and spectators.
Testing and observation will take place at the following fixtures ahead of Rugby World Cup 2015:
Millennium Stadium, Cardiff
8 August – Wales v Ireland, 14:30
5 September – Wales v Italy, 17:00
Twickenham Stadium, London
15 August – England v France, 20:00
5 September – England v Ireland, 14:30
The Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
29 August – Barbarians v Samoa, 15:00
Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester
5 September – Georgia v Japan, 16:45
Sandy Park, Exeter
Exeter Chiefs’ friendlies: 5 September and 19 September
Rugby World Cup 2015 host venues:
Thirteen match venues have been confirmed to host Rugby World Cup 2015 matches, these are:
Brighton Community Stadium
Elland Road
Kingsholm Stadium
Leicester City Stadium
Manchester City Stadium
Millennium Stadium
The Stadium, Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park
Sandy Park
St James’ Park
Stadium MK
Twickenham Stadium
Villa Park
Wembley Stadium
For further information, go to: http://www.rugbyworldcup.com
Image courtesy: Rugby World Cup 2015
