21 Mar 2010

Georgia retain European Nations Cup rugby title

10:22 am on 21 March 2010

Georgia's thrashed Russia 36-8 in an historic encounter in Turkey overnight to retain the European Nations Cup title and confirm their place as Europe 1 at Rugby World Cup 2011.

Both teams had already secured their places at rugby's showpiece event in New Zealand next year, with Russia qualifying for the first time following a draw with Romania in Sochi three weeks ago.

Georgia can now build towards an opening match against Scotland in Dunedin next September before facing Argentina and England in Pool B.

Georgia's other matches take place in Christchurch and Palmerston North.

Russia qualify as Europe 2 for their first World Cup and will play alongside Australia, Ireland, Italy and USA.

Russia plays in New Plymouth, Rotorua, Nelson and Christchurch.

Both teams will also visit non-match centres. Georgia will be hosted in heartland Rugby country when they visit Masterton between matches while Russia will travel to Blenheim and Tauranga.