Photo: Steven Markham
World Rugby has defended launching the 2027 World Cup with Australia playing Hong Kong, with the opener looming as a major mismatch between the host nation and the Asian debutants.
Australia kick off the tournament against world number 23 Hong Kong in Perth on 1 October, crushing fans' hopes of a Wallabies showdown with the All Blacks, who are in the same pool.
The hosts traditionally launch the quadrennial showpiece, with France
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