Austrlian Rugby Union (ARU) chief executive John O'Neill has declared that the 2003 World Cup will be the best ever.

O'Neill was talking moments after the International Rugby Board confirmed Australia as the sole hosts of the rugby showpiece.

O'Neill said, "We are rolling up our sleeves and getting down to work.

"We have been obsessive about hosting this World Cup, and with good reason. World rugby has a great opportunity to stage an event of the highest quality, and the ARU possesses the expertise to do that.

"The integrity of the tournament is at the front of our thinking," he added.

"At the same time, there is the chance to provide a great legacy for the game in Australia, both in terms of exposure and also financially.

"Professional sport is a tough, competitive environment in Australia. A Rugby World Cup staged here will give us an edge our competitors lack."

O'Neill claimed the New Zealand Rugby Football Union had been "the master of its own destiny".

He added: "I am certain that New Zealanders will get behind the All Blacks, as they always do.

"They are among the most passionate rugby supporters in the world, so I am sure whether it is on television or following the All Blacks wherever they play, New Zealand fans will get behind their team.

"Needless to say, there is some healing to be done, and we will start that process by increasing the number of tickets available to New Zealand supporters to see the All Blacks play at the Rugby World Cup.

"In terms of our preparation, we are well down the track, but time is of the essence. We have set some critical timelines to ensure this event will be every bit as good as people expect.

"There is no looking back now, we must roll up our sleeves and get on with it. Rugby World Cup 2003 in Australia will be the best ever.

"We have the track record, we've made the commitment and we will put our hearts into it. It will be the 'players' cup'."