Pitch "will perform superbly"
World Rugby have issued the following statement with regard to the pitch at Fukuoka after fears were expressed that it was very poor quality ahead of the Ireland v Samoa match on Saturday:
"We are confident in the integrity of the new Fukuoka pitch for Ireland v Samoa.
With stability and performance the key considerations, World Rugby and JR 2019 took the decision to re-turf the playing surface following significant wear caused by the France versus USA match after heavy rainfall as a consequence of Typhoon 17.
The primary driver was player welfare.
The tournament has dedicated nurseries where back-up turf is meticulously prepared in line with Rugby World Cup standards.
While the look of the turf may not be perfect, as would be expected with a very recent installation, we are confident that the pitch will perform superbly"
Buccaneers Searching For Back To Back AIL Wins
Leinster Final Place On The Line For Birr
Portarlington Begin Leinster Journey Away To Carlow Champions
Provincial Final The Goal For Milltown
Portlaoise Panthers Face Tough Test Away In Limerick
Laois Author Recounts First Meeting With F1 Legend Eddie Jordan
Offaly GAA Calls For End To Allianz Sponsorship
Social Finance Boosts Westmeath Boat Club
AIL Changes Make Sense - Darin Claasen
Returning To Winning Ways The Goal For Portlaoise Panthers
Five Athlone Town Players Named In Team Of The Season
Westmeath SFC: Coralstown Kinnegad Manager Proud Of His Team's Efforts
13 Medals For Team Ireland At European U15 Championships
Offaly SFC: Agony For Ferbane Once Again
Westmeath SFC: The Down's Show Their Class To Win Championship
Portlaoise Panthers Keep Up 100% Record
Laois SFC: Portarlington Make It Five Titles In Six Years
Enda Rowland Announces Reitrement From Inter-County Hurling
Buccaneers End Losing Streak With Away Win Against Enniscorthy
Offaly SFC: Three In A Row Secured For Tullamore