High temperatures in France see World Rugby confirm water breaks for all RWC matches

All matches at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France will include a water break in each half, World Rugby has confirmed.

Hot temperatures in France have exacerbated the decision, which aligns with the organisation's protocols on player welfare.

The opening match of the tournament sees hosts France taking on the All Blacks, and despite the game kicking off at 21:15, temperatures are expected to be in the high 20s.

A statement from World Rugby released to the media regarding the water breaks said:

"World Rugby can confirm that the decision has been taken to implement water breaks at all Rugby World Cup 2023 matches this weekend, including tonight's opening match.

"Water breaks will operate midway through both halves at a natural break in play. The process will be managed by the referee.

"All teams have been informed.

"The process has operated at previous Rugby World Cups and across rugby more broadly when temperatures are hot or humid and is catered for in the tournament's regulations."

Teams

France

15 Thomas Ramos, 14 Damian Penaud, 13 Gael Fickou, 12 Yoram Moefana, 11 Gabin Villiere, 10 Matthieu Jalibert, 9 Antoine Dupont (c) 8 Gregory Alldritt, 7 Charles Ollivon, 6 Francois Cros, 5 Thibaud Flament, 4 Cameron Woki, 3 Uini Atonio, 2 Julien Marchand, 1 Reda Wardi

Substitutes: 16 Peato Mauvaka, 17 Jean-Baptiste Gros, 18 Dorian Aldegheri, 19 Romain Taofifienua, 20 Paul Boudehent, 21 Maxime Lucu, 22 Arthur Vincent, 23 Melvyn Jaminet

New Zealand:

15 Beauden Barrett, 14 Will Jordan, 13 Rieko Ioane, 12 Anton Lienert-Brown, 11 Mark Telea, 10 Richie Mo'unga, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Ardie Savea, 7 Sam Cane (c), 6 Dalton Papali'i, 5 Scott Barrett, 4 Samuel Whitelock, 3 Nepo Laulala, 2 Codie Taylor, 1 Ethan de Groot

Substitutes: 16 Samisoni