Rugby hailed the expansion of the World Cup and the introduction of a Nations League competition as a new dawn for the sport as it sought to widen its international reach and increase revenue and opportunity.

Rugby: World Cup to comprise 24 teams amid radical new calendar

Former England cricket and rugby captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont headlined sporting personalities in the New Years Honours List with both men receiving knighthoods from Queen Elizabeth II.

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont knighted

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Rugby: World Cup to comprise 24 teams amid radical new calendar

Former England captains Alastair Cook and Bill Beaumont knighted