With the start of the new school year, most expatriates would have returned to Cairo by now, thirsting for the metaphorical blood of their national rivals in the Rugby World Cup, which kicks off on Friday, Sept. 7. What the Scots would give to put England to the sword? Or the South Africans to see the Kiwis crushed? The winners may get the Web Ellis Trophy, but their nationals get the bragging rights. These, I feel, carry much more weight than winning a football world cup or topping the medal table at next years Beijing Olympics, because rugby is all about beer, bragging and banter. England are the current world rugby champion and how it grates on an Australian to write that, let alone say it. Thankfully we only have to wait until late October, for the final in St. Denis for that to change - insha'allah. The favourites, yet again, are New Zealand. For a hundred years the All Blacks have been rugby's super power, though in the professional era, they have failed to win the World Cup for 20 years. I'll just say that again: 20 years. Every rugby pundit has tipped New Zealand, who wear an all black strip, to finally break their drought. But they are somewhat nervous of their favourite status. Rene Wilson, New Zealand's Ambassador in Cairo said, "I become uneasy whenever the All Blacks are declared clear favorites. Over the years we have watched World Cup games we were supposed to win just slip away. Joel Stansky s inspired drop kick. A French team suddenly on-song and playing sublime rugby. Australians who just won't lie down and then take the win on the final whistle. The unshakeable resolve of England. They all stopped us in our tracks. This time around it's the South Africans - the old nemesis - who niggle at my confidence most frequently. They turned the Super 14 final this year into a local affair. They have a stable, well coached and immensely talented team, both up front and in their backline. They worry me. But there is no shaking the Australian resolve. Diplomat Hugh Robilliard said, "Australia will win because we peak for two games every four years. The World Cup semi-final and the final. Some of the games most fervent supporters and astute judges are the Welsh and Robilliard and other antipodeans may have a potential banana skin. Even though the men in scarlet may be long shots for the tournament, the Deputy Head of Mission at the British Embassy Jon Davies says, "Funny things can happen in rugby and on a good day Wales can play very well and may even upset Australia in Cardiff. The Irish too are very capable of springing a surprise or two and according to the Consul form the Irish Embassy, Olivia Leslie, the Irish will be in there fighting. "We came very close to winning the Six Nations last year and I am optimistic that the Irish have a very good chance, said Leslie, who will no doubt be waving the flag at the Cairo Rugby Club. In Maadi, the Cairo Rugby Club will be showing all games live on the Club's many screens. Usual guest fee for non-members is LE 10, but World Cup Season Ticket s get access to all matches for LE 50. The Rugby Club is producing special RWC t-shirts and there will be competitions and sweepstakes on match-days. The Clubhouse Manager Karl Wilkinson, a keen player himself back in the day, is also predicting an All Black victory. "The All Blacks to win. The strongest side, and something to prove. But the French to come very close. Gallic flair on the day, strengthening pack and delightful inspirational backs, topped-off with home advantage. "England are much better than they were even a few months ago, but haven t gone far enough to keep the trophy. Though of course I ll be absolutely delighted if they did, Wilkinson said. South African and Mohandiseen BCA club house manager, Derek Robbins, is also tipping New Zealand. I could hardly believe my ears when he told me. Robbins gave a balanced assessment of the All Blacks and didn't feel confident with South Africa's pre-tournament form. I may have to ask to see his passport! Arguably for comfort, but definitely for food, get along to the British Community Association in Mohandiseen to watch the 16 competing nation's battle it out. They have imported British bangers, roast dinners and more often than not the barbeque is cranked up. The BCA will be showing all the matches live on the big screen and they heartily encourage a robust discourse amongst their patrons. As far as my own prediction goes; I back Argentina to spoil the party for the Irish, the Italians to upset the Scots and the Australian Wallabies to march triumphantly down the Champs-Elysees on Oct. 20 - insha'allah.
