their World Rugby Classic title.

The South Africans, who saw off Argentina to lift the trophy last year, were yesterday confirmed as competitors in this year's event which is set to take place at the National Sports Centre on Frog Lane.

The other sides making the trip, for what is arguably one of the Island's flagship sporting tournaments, are the USA, New Zealand, Argentina, Canada, Portugal/Spain, the Classic Lions and hosts Bermuda.

South Africa have been placed in the New Zealand side of the draw, while Argentina, the 1999 champions, are seeded to meet the Classic Lions.

Bermuda face New Zealand in the opening round -- an encounter they last enjoyed in 1989 when they went down 54-9.

Following on from the news of the new venue, organisers have announced that the date of this year's event has been changed.

"Unfortunately for us, but great for tourism, our host hotel, the Fairmont Southampton Princess, is exceptionally busy during the week of November 4 -- the original date for the Classic,'' said Classic president John Kane.

"The hotel, which is one of our major sponsors and a tremendous contributor to the success of Classic Week, has asked us to assist them by starting the Classic a week later and we are, of course, happy to oblige having made sure the move doesn't cause problems with the Centre and the visiting teams.'' Kane said the organisation now had to get the word out in Europe and North America, but he did not anticipate any major problems.

However, he added: "I have no doubt someone from overseas will be sitting down at the old National Sports Club on November 4 wondering where everybody is.'' Schedule November 11, 2.00 -- Bermuda v New Zealand (A) 3.30 -- South Africa v USA (B) November 12, 2.00 -- Argentina v Portugal/Spain (C) 3.30 -- Canada v Classic Lions (D) November 14, 7.00 -- Loser A v Loser B 8.30 -- Winner A v Winner B November 15 7.00 -- Loser C v Loser D 8.30 -- Winner C v Winner D November 16, 2.00 -- Plate Final 3.30 -- World Rugby Classic Final