The iconic Asia Rugby Championship 2018 began in Beirut Lebanon on Thursday, the first of many tournaments in this year’s edition.
Hosts Lebanon and Iran will meet in the final of Division III W, before Malaysia and Korea begin the ARC Top 3 on Saturday.
All ARC2018 Top 3 Matches will be Streamed Live on Asia Rugby Facebook Page
This year is the first time the matches will be played with the Rhino Vortex Elite ball after Asia Rugby signed a a two-year deal with Rhino to supply official match balls for all of its 15s and 7s international competitions.
When combined with the 46 nations who use Rhino in Rugby Europe competition, it means an incredible 77 of the world’s rugby-playing national sides will shortly be playing regularly with Rhino match balls.
“We in Asia Rugby are delighted to be commencing our Asia Rugby Championship this year knowing that we shall be using the famous Rhino ball throughout for all our competitions,” said Asia Rugby General Manager Ross Mitchell.
“The season is made extra special because this year is the final qualification for RWC 2019 in Japan and our top Asian team shall have a chance to progress through to the repechage and hopefully secure an historic second place for an Asian team at Rugby World Cup.”
Reg Clark, CEO of Rhino Rugby, added: “With the launch of the Asia Rugby Championship 2018, combined with our partnership of Rugby Europe, the Rhino Vortex Elite will be used by 77 international sides this year, confirming its position as one of the best rugby balls in world rugby.
“We’re sure all of the teams in this year’s championship are going to benefit from the precision, grip and performance of our premium match day ball.”
