who won the first ever rugby world cup
History of the Rugby World Cup Seven places were automatically filled by the IRFB members, with invitations being sent out to fill remaining places. In total there were 16 nations in the competition. France played Australia in one of the semi-finals with New Zealand playing Wales in the other. New Zealand became the first ever Rugby World Cup Champions, defeating France 29 points to 9 at Eden Park in Auckland.
History of rugby union matches between England and Ireland The Millennium Trophy is currently held by Ireland, who won the most recent match 24â€“15 at the Twickenham Stadium during the 2018 Six Nations Championship.