The impending second edition of the Women’s XV, known as WXV, or World Rugby, is scheduled to commence on the 27th of September and will continue for three consecutive weekends until the 12th of October. This tournament will consist of a total of 27 matches that will take place in various locations worldwide. Dubai, South Africa, and Canada, the newcomers to the roster, will host WXV 3, 2, and 1 respectively.
This three-tier tournament will include a mix of standalone, double, and triple header fixtures across the match weekends with the goal of maximizing fan attendance and creating an exciting atmosphere in each host city.
Vancouver is prepared to host WXV 1 and will feature a triple-header on the opening day. Fans will be treated to a full day of rugby action, starting with a match between USA and England, followed by the hosts Canada playing against France. Ireland, fresh from finishing third in the Guinness Women’s Six Nations earlier this year, will make their debut in WXV 1 by facing New Zealand on the opening day.
Moving on to WXV 2, South Africa will kick off the proceedings with a match against Japan. This will be followed by Australia and Wales entering the tournament for the first time with an opening match against each other, while Italy will face Scotland. The final game of WXV 2 will see Australia take on Scotland.
As the competition to secure spots for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England intensifies, all eyes will be on WXV 3. Fans will be treated to thrilling matches as the tournament unfolds and teams strive to achieve a commendable ranking to secure a spot in the World Cup.
Sally Horrox, World Rugby Chief of Women’s Rugby, expressed her enthusiasm about the upcoming tournament, highlighting the importance of the WXV on the road to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England. “WXV is the next important milestone on the road to the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 in England,” said Horrox.
The pools for each level of the WXV have been revealed, and tickets for WXV 1 in Vancouver are set to go on sale soon. This is a great opportunity for fans to show support for their teams, so ensure to secure your tickets early.
The WXV remains central to World Rugby’s ambition to increase the profile and participation of the women’s game and accelerate its growth around the world. With the support of various partners and multi-million pound investments from World Rugby, the WXV is expected to pave the way for an expanded 16-team Women’s Rugby World Cup in 2025.