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England's Mathew Tait, left, and Jonny Wilkinson. AP Photo/Matt Dunham
Many may remember the Rugby World Cup 2003 for many different reasons, whether it was seeing England take out the trophy in heart-stopping fashion, Stirling Mortlock’s interception of Carlos Spencer’s pass, or watching the dazzling running of Rupeni Caucaunabuca and Shane Williams.
My memories include those moments, however it also includes some eerie facts I remember being pointed out by an article in The Australian.
As Australia struggled to hold out the Irish in Melbourne, the article contributed several interesting points which the year 2003 had in common with 1991.
Firstly, 1991 featured the Penrith Panthers winning the NRL premiership, and in 2003 the Panthers once again took the trophy.
Secondly, in 1991, Australia beat Ireland by a single point in the World Cup.
Thirdly, Australia beat New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final.
Finally, Australia faced England in the World Cup final, however this obviously yielded a different result than in 1991.
What I have listed may seem coincidental, but also consider this. Rugby World Cup 2007 had several interesting moments aligned with the 1999 tournament.
In 1999, the Wallabies beat Wales in Cardiff in the World Cup which they repeated in 2007.
Before the World Cup, the French toured New Zealand and were demolished by them, yet they shocked everyone by defeating the All Blacks in the tournament. They also faced similar dismal results and inconsistency in 1999 (they lost to Tonga before the tournament), but still managed to defeat the All Blacks.
Finally, (and a year or two ago this would have been a more valid point) in 1999 the Melbourne Storm won the NRL premiership. In 2007 they held the trophy as well.
So, with England facing the prospect of a Grand Slam for the first time since they won the World Cup, and the French struggling to find form after their shock loss to the Italians over the weekend, could we see a repeat of history in the matches that lie ahead?
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.