"Not a drill" - England legend Joe Marler comes out of retirement

 Wales face a big opener vs Argentina but have a strong chance to top this pool. Samoa adds intrigue as the dark horse.

Every number tells a story. #7 for Rob Burrow, #4 for Ed Slater, #5 for Doddie Weir — three men who have inspired the rugby world with strength, resilience, and dedication.

Their legacy drives this match, a living tribute to their fight and Rob’s vision: a world where Motor Neurone Disease (MND) no longer exists.

Born from the desire to raise awareness and funds for MND, the 745 Game brings together the rugby community each year. It’s a celebration of sport, solidarity, and the power of collective action — where legends of Rugby Union and Rugby League join forces for something far bigger than a game.

2025 Details
? 9th November 2025
? Kingsholm Stadium, Gloucester
? Tickets — get them here

Fans can expect a day packed with world-class rugby, unforgettable moments, and the passion that only Kingsholm can deliver. With its proud history and electric atmosphere, Gloucester will once again be the stage for this extraordinary fixture.

Stay tuned for further announcements: players, ticket releases, and special features. Keep updated via the official 745 Game Database.

Confirmed for the Union side in 2025: Billy Twelvetrees, Joe Marler, Ben Te’o, Tom Youngs.

With the new six-pool format confirmed, here’s a projected draw based on current World Rugby Rankings — with Wales sitting in Band 2.

South Africa (Band 1) — Reigning World Champions, famed for their physical dominance and tactical brilliance.

Australia (Band 2) — Rugby hosts with a rich history and a passionate home crowd.

Japan (Band 3) — High-paced attackers who stunned the world in 2019.

Portugal (Band 4) — Rising force in European rugby, known for their scrappy determination.

? Storyline: South Africa vs Australia could be a World Cup final preview — Portugal and Japan will battle for third place.

Ireland (Band 1) — Consistently at the top of world rugby, masters of strategic play.

Scotland (Band 2) — Brave and battle-hardened, with a history of giant-killing performances.

Spain (Band 3) — Emerging side bringing flair and unpredictability.

Romania (Band 4) — Rugby stalwarts with physical forward packs.

? Storyline: Ireland and Scotland renew their rivalry in a high-stakes pool. Spain could cause an upset.

New Zealand (Band 1) — The All Blacks, rugby royalty with speed, skill, and killer instinct.

Fiji (Band 2) — Fijian flair and athleticism make them dangerous in any matchup.

USA (Band 3) — Big, athletic squad with growing ambitions.

Hong Kong China (Band 4) — Developing team looking to make an impact on the world stage.

? Storyline: Expect fireworks between New Zealand and Fiji; USA and Hong Kong will battle for the third spot.

France (Band 1) — World Cup hosts in 2023, dynamic attackers, crowd favourites.

Italy (Band 2) — Tough, resilient side with big scrummaging power.

Tonga (Band 3) — Physical, passionate, unpredictable warriors.

Canada (Band 4) — Experienced team, looking to build consistency.

? Storyline: France should lead this pool, but Tonga’s unpredictability makes this one dangerous.

England (Band 1) — Powerful, well-drilled side with a deep tactical playbook.

Georgia (Band 2) — Known for a dominant forward pack and fierce defence.

Uruguay (Band 3) — South American fighters with resilience to match their passion.

Zimbabwe (Band 4) — Underdogs aiming to shock the world.

? Storyline: England’s depth makes them favourites, but Georgia could make it interesting.

Argentina (Band 1) — Tough, skilled, and battle-tested with World Cup pedigree.

Wales (Band 2) — Six Nations contenders with a blend of power and precision.

Chile (Band 3) — South American dark horse making their mark.

Samoa (Band 4) — Fierce underdogs with a proud history and attacking flair.

? Storyline: