The biggest crowd ever for the opening day of a Rugby League World Cup will witness a spectacular Opening Ceremony and thrilling double header of matches under the roof at the Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, on Saturday.
I have been away for a week and missed all the build up this week with Gareth Hock’s departure and Steve McNamara walking out of a press conference!
I cannot wait for the action to start and will be in Cardiff tomorrow, Warrington on Sunday and Rochdale on Tuesday and maybe Cumbria on Tuesday night!
The figure is already well in excess of the 41,271 who witnessed England’s stunning first-day win over Australia at the 1995 Rugby League World Cup, and the vast majority of those in the crowd tomorrow will be hoping for a similar result.
An outstanding atmosphere is guaranteed as England collide with Australia and Wales square off against Italy, and the world wakes up to Rugby League World Cup 2013.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets on the day of the game are advised to arrive at the stadium well ahead of kick-off, as heightened interest in the fixture could mean lengthy queues at the ticket office as the start of the Opening Ceremony approaches.
And following news of a sell-out for England’s match against Ireland at the John Smith’s Stadium, Huddersfield, on November 2, several other games are also heading towards capacity as interest in RLWC2013 continues to grow.
The match between Fiji and Ireland at Rochdale’s Spotland Stadium on October 28 is expected to sell out this afternoon, while there are less than 1,000 tickets left for Samoa’s clash with New Zealand at the Halliwell Jones Stadium, Warrington, a day earlier.
It is highly unlikely that there will be any tickets left on the day at Warrington, so supporters wishing to attend this game and any other at the tournament are advised to book now to avoid disappointment.
Rugby League World Cup 2013 Tournament Director Nigel Wood said: “On the eve of the tournament it is fantastic to announce a record-breaking crowd for the Opening Ceremony and double header.
“Through RLWC2013, Rugby League is breaking new ground and attracting new fans from right across the country. We’re filling stadiums with old and new fans alike.
“The best players in the world are in the UK for the next five weeks. We urge Rugby League and sports fans in general to be part of this amazing, history-making event.”
To make sure you’ll #bethere, buy now at www.rlwc2013.com/tickets or call the 24-hour Ticket Hotline on 0844 847 2013.