Three days into the Rugby world cup and a look at the winners and losers of the matches so far will surprise no one. All the tri-nation and home countries which have played so far have convincingly beaten the relative minnows they have played against, the closest match being the opener, Australia v Argentina.

But while England, New Zealand and the other usual suspects have already gained their bonus points the lower ranked countries have held their head high. Romania scored two tries against number 3 ranked Ireland in Gosford, Uruguay taught South Africa a few lessons in forward play and Japan was aiming for an upset against Scotland at half time.

Some will question the wisdom of pitting Georgia, an amateur team earning $60 a day for expenses against England, where the captain of the team will earn far more than that in an hour, but this is what the World Cup is about! A team does not improve playing against equals; you have to bite off more than you can chew.

It can be guaranteed that any nation with no hope will automatically be supported by the underdog loving Australians. As long as the little battlers keep battling they will be welcome here. Although I am sure that the poorer rugby unions are not here for a welcome, they are here for pride, pride in their country, and pride in their team.

Mardo Gray, for 2K Plus International Sports Media