Sport

Clash of stumbling rugby giants has huge implications for loser

As Wales and Australia meet in the world cup, the result will impact the future of the game in their respective countries

Wales take on Portugal in Nice last week. Picture Johnny Fidelin/Getty Images

At 8pm tonight, Wales and Australia will meet in Lyon in a world cup pool game that is not just vital for both teams in their progression in the tournament, but which has enormous implications for the health of the game in both countries.

Wales and Australia are powerhouses of global rugby with enviable world cup pedigrees. However, neither comes into this game in particularly good shape.

Over the last year, Wales have had a ...