Russia or Georgia to 'invade' Marlborough

Marlborough has more riding on an obscure World Cup qualifying rugby match tomorrow than you might think.

The national rugby teams of Russia and Georgia meet on neutral ground in Turkey tomorrow to determine their grouping at next year's big tournament.

The team that comes second can be comforted by the thought they will be hosted by Marlborough during their time in New Zealand.

Susan Witehira, the Marlborough District Council's Rugby World Cup project manager, said she did not think the match would be broadcast in New Zealand, and she would be checking a website for the result.

"We are watching to see who is the loser, isn't that funny?" she said.

Plans are already being prepared to ensure Marlborough was a great host, she said.

- The Marlborough Express