QPR to get cash windfall

A cash boost was handed to Queens Park Rangers today when they won the right to stage the opening UK match of rugby league's Tri-Nations tournament.

The newly promoted club will receive a five-figure sum - plus all bar and catering takings - for hosting Australia's clash with New Zealand on 23 October.

The Rugby Football League chose Loftus Road because of the high Antipodean population based in nearby Shepherds Bush. The ground has previously staged games for Australia's football team.

New Zealand and Australia kick off the Tri-Nations in the southern hemisphere on 16 October before flying to England for the remainder of the tournament, which also includes Great Britain.