England fight France for Cup

England could be going head to head with France for the rights to stage the 2007 Rugby World Cup - where the emphasis will almost certainly be on one country, one competition.

England's bid is in and France are expected to follow soon.

The International Rugby Board is due to make a decision before the end of the year.

France will win support as this would be their first time as sole hosts. Most of the stadia used for the 1998 football World Cup will be part of their bid.

However, England will offer a mixture of Twickenham and support grounds within the football Premiership like Old Trafford and Anfield.

One World Cup source said: " England have a good case if Rugby World Cup insist on the competition taking place in one country."