<P> A subsequent IRFB meeting was held in Paris in March 1985 . It is known that originally, all four home nations were opposed to the idea, and the most vocal supporters were Australia, New Zealand and France . It is believed that South Africa's decision to vote in favour of the event was the turning point in the voting . South Africa voted in favour of the tournament going ahead, though they knew they would not be competing due to the sports boycott at the time . South Africa's vote saw England, followed by Wales, change to be in favour as well . </P> <P> The 1987 Rugby World Cup was hosted by both Australia and New Zealand . 32 matches were played from over a period of 22 May to 20 June . The tournament featured one African nation, three American nations, one Asian nation, seven European nations and four Oceanic nations . One notable omission was the Springboks who were not competing due to the international sports boycott . </P> <P> Seven places were automatically filled by the IRFB members, with invitations being sent out to fill remaining places . In total there were 16 nations in the competition . France played Australia in one of the semi-finals with New Zealand playing Wales in the other . New Zealand became the first ever Rugby World Cup Champions, defeating France 29 points to 9 at Eden Park in Auckland . </P> <P> The 1991 Rugby World Cup was hosted by Great Britain, Ireland and France, with the tournament final to be played at the home of English rugby, Twickenham . For the first time, a qualifying tournament replaced the previously used invitation format . The qualifying tournament involved 32 teams . England qualified for the final by defeating Scotland at Murrayfield, with Australia joining them by defeating New Zealand the day after . Australia won the final, defeating England 12--6, and became the first nation to win the cup away from home . </P>

Who won the first ever rugby world cup