Warren Gatland believes {that a} 24-nation Rugby World Cup would assist to develop the sport.
An enlargement from the present 20 nations for Australia 2027 or the United States 4 years later has been mooted in some quarters.
The present match in France has already been highlighted by excellent performances from lower-ranked groups.
Uruguay pushed France for big components of a gripping Pool A encounter earlier than shedding 27-12, whereas Portugal gave Gatland’s Wales a lot to ponder and Chile had their moments in video games in opposition to Japan and Samoa.
“I thought Uruguay were outstanding – it is brilliant for the game,” Wales head coach Gatland stated, following a 28-8 victory over Portugal.
“Portugal have been unbelievable and confirmed plenty of enterprise, and you can argue that Uruguay have been fairly unfortunate in a number of conditions (in opposition to France).
“I feel it can be crucial that we proceed to develop from a rugby perspective to assist develop these tier two nations.
I feel it is an actual optimistic going ahead to see groups competing and pushing different groups shut
Warren Gatland
“There might be a situation where we can increase the number of teams in the World Cup to 24, and that would continue to help grow the game.
“That is an important aspect. You don’t want top tier nations dominating, you want upsets – as long as I am not a part of it!
“I think it’s a real positive going forward to see teams competing and pushing other teams close.”
Portugal returned to the World Cup stage following a 16-year absence once they tackled Wales at Stade de Nice.
They certified for the match by profitable a repechage competitors in Dubai, and full-back Nuno Sousa Guedes has little doubt that common publicity in opposition to main nations is what Portugal require.
Guedes and firm made life robust for Wales, trailing by simply 4 factors approaching half-time, whereas they didn’t concede a bonus-point strive till the sport’s closing seconds.
“If we could keep playing games like this, it is the main thing,” Guedes stated.
“For the kids back home who are starting out, it would be a very good step.
“In Portugal, it is always soccer. We want to show the world that it is not only soccer.
“We have the numbers in terms of rugby and some good kids coming up. I think we have the capacity.”
