Ireland's chances of hosting the 2023 Rugby World Cup have gotten slightly better.
USA Rugby decided to withdraw from bidding for the right to host the tournament, which means that it now a battle between four countries.
World Rugby confirmed the US’ decision to not bid for the competition this afternoon, despite having previously expressed interest in doing so.
This leaves Ireland, South Africa, Italy and France as the only countries to have confirmed a desire to host it.
The hosts of the 2023 World Cup will be decided in May 2017, with a confirmation of tender deadline in June 206.
South Africa staged the tournament in 1995, while France in 2007, but Ireland and Italy are looking to become hosts for the first time.
Hat-tip to the Irish Independent
