England appears to be on course to host the 2015 Rugby World Cup after the Rugby Football Union's (RFU) bid received the backing of tournament organisers, Rugby World Cup Limited (RWCL).

A report from RWCL has recommended that the International Rugby Board (IRB) Council selects England and Japan to host the 2015 and 2019 tournaments respectively, following a detailed financial, technical and commercial review of all the prospective host nations. RWCL chair Bernard Lapasset said: "A tournament in England would allow the IRB to maximise funding available for investment in the Game through a strong commercial programme and a great Rugby World Cup showcase.

"In the heart of the UK's proposed decade of sport, RWCL believes that the RFU will deliver a Rugby World Cup that will capture the imagination, attract strong attendances at superb venues and maximise the festival experience for the millions of attending supporters." The IRB is to announce the host nations for both the 2015 and 2019 Rugby World Cup at a special meeting in Dublin, Ireland, on 28 July.

Photograph: Rugby World Cup 2007, actionplus.co.uk