Kiwis back our World Cup campaign

The team behind Doncaster's bid has revealed that the bosses of the New Zealand side nailed their colours to the wall in support of Doncaster in its bid to host matches when the 2021 finals comes to England.

They are one of two international teams to have confirmed their support, both having previously played matches in the town and been impressed by the experience and the faculties the town offered them.

New Zealand played a warm up game in the borough before the 2013 tournament, and have told how pleased they were with the town and facilities

Steven Kearney, who was New Zealand coach in 2013, said: "Doncaster RLFC made sure that we had everything that we needed, prior to the start of the tournament. Everything was to a very high standard.

"I would have no hesitation in recommending Doncaster and the Keepmoart Stadium as a host town for any future major events."

New Zealand's opponents in 2013 have also expressed support for Doncaster.

Charles Carlson, the president of the Cook Islands Rugby League Association also told of his support for the borough.

He said: "The Cook Islands Rugby League Association would highly recommend Doncaster RFLC as a host for any future rugby league tournaments. The Dons made sure our every need was met."

We launched our Rugby League World Cup 2021: Touch Down in Doncaster campaign to support efforts to make the borough a host town for the sport's most glittering showcase event.

We are also urging schools to join in, by designing posters in support of the campaign. We will print as many of them as we can in the paper. Children whose schools are not taking part are welcome to send us their own poster designs.

If you want to get involved email [email protected], marking your message World Cup Campaign.

A joint bid is being put together involving Doncaster Council, Business Doncaster, and Club Doncaster, the umbrella organisation which works with the borough's professional sports clubs.

They are putting together a case which will be presented to the organisers of the Rugby League World Cup, who will select where the games will be played during the tournament in 2021.

In total, 16 teams will play 31 matches during the tournament. There will also be 14 venues hosting games.