Semple Stadium left out of IRFU Rugby World Cup bid

Semple Stadium will not be rocking and rolling for the Rugby World Cup in 2023

placeholder image — Semple Stadium will not be rocking and rolling for the Rugby World Cup in 2023

Major disappointment over decision.

Thurles town and it's surrounds has been rocked by the news that Semple Stadium, the GAA's second most important stadium, has been left out of Ireland's Rugby World Cup 2023 bid.

The IRFU's decision to ignore Semple Stadium in their bid comes as the rugby organisation outlines potential venues and anticipated tourism and financial benefits as they battle with South Africa and France for the chance to stage the World Cup in seven years' time.

Casement Park in Belfast has been included as one of the 12 venues but has been held up significantly by planning issues for the £72m re-development which is expected to see its first game at the new venue in 2020.

The GAA's second most important stadium with greater capacity than all others with the exception of Croke Park, is out of the running while eight other GAA grounds are included.

The move is seen as a major blow to Thurles and Tipperary with lack of hotel accommodation being blamed.

See this weeks Tipperary Star for more.