Terms allow a wide-ranging review of cup debacle

Independent reviewer Sir Thomas Eichelbaum will be able to cast his net as far as he pleases to find out what went wrong with New Zealand's bid to co-host the World Cup.

The terms of reference for the review of how the New Zealand Rugby Football Union lost its sub-host status for next year's cup were released in Wellington last night.

"The reviewer is authorised to consult with such person or persons who in his opinion may provide appropriate advice on any specialised aspect of the inquiry," the terms of reference say.

That will allow Eichelbaum, a former Chief Justice, to interview the chairman of the International Rugby Board, Vernon Pugh, if Pugh agrees.

NZRFU officials initially pointed the finger at Pugh for denying New Zealand any cup games, even though the union had failed to meet the demands of the organisers, Rugby World Cup Ltd, by its March deadline.

After the NZRFU's efforts to regain sub-host status failed at the IRB meeting in Dublin two weeks ago, the union appointed Eichelbaum to carry out the review.

The terms of reference say, "The primary objective shall be to report on the circumstances leading to the NZRFU losing its previously agreed status as a sub-host of the rugby World Cup in 2003; with a particular emphasis on the chronological sequence of events and decisions or actions by NZRFU directors or staff."

The terms were drawn up by Eichelbaum, in consultation with the NZRFU's review steering committee of John Spicer, Craig Norgate, Chris Liddell and Paul Quinn.

The review is expected to be completed by the middle of next month.

Eichelbaum will determine whether the NZRFU board and management took all reasonable steps and action to sub-host the cup.

He will also review all actions and communications by the board, including the roles of the NZRFU representatives on the International Rugby Board, Rob Fisher and Tim Gresson, and the management.

- NZPA