Australian rugby's horror year has gone from bad to worse after missing out on hosting rights for the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup.
The World Rugby Council voted on Wednesday in Dublin to award New Zealand the women's XVs tournament in which the Australian team, the Wallaroos, will compete.
New Zealand polled 25 votes while Australia managed 17.
"Delighted to congratulate the New Zealand Union on hosting the Womens Rugby World Cup in 2021," World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont told reporters.
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"Were excited about it. We know were going to a country that delivers major events well… The 2011 Rugby World Cup, a British and Irish Lions tour last year… these guys know how to do it.
World Rugby Chairman Bill Beaumont (right) congratulates New Zealand as they are announced hosts of the 2021 Women's Rugby World Cup.Credit:Twitter/World Rugby
"I know there will be thousands of supporters excited to go back to New Zealand. I think it will do a huge amount for the growth of the womens game.
"You listen to the presentation and its the passion, its a passion for the sport and everybody knows what rugby means to Kiwis. Its in their DNA isnt it? And that certainly came out in the bid.
"I would also like to thank Australia for its exceptional bid. We hope to welcome Australia back to bid again in the future."
Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle, chairman Cameron Clyne and head of women's rugby Jilly Collins presented Australia's bid to the World Rugby Council on Wednesday but they were unable to poll enough votes.
Australia had planned on hosting the event in the Hunter region, with a final to be played at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle.
It is the first time the Women's Rugby World Cup will be held in the southern hemisphere. The tournament will be held in Auckland and Whangarei on New Zealands north island.
More to come
Tom Decent is a journalist with Fairfax Media.
