I dont see the big deal with closer games. If I go to a game and saw Australia win 100-0 against Scotland, and the Aussies played Harlen Globe-trotter style rugby I would walk away very happy

But on the flip side I dont think as many would tune in if it was two smaller nations. Personally I am one of those that would go watch genuine teams (not those made up of Aussies/Brits with a grandparent from there) that I barely get to see though.
But seeing Scotland made up of Aussies and lower league English players, vs Ireland filled up with Aussies and lower league English players is not going to get me to tune in. So have either of those teams playing one of the big three is more than likely to get me to tune in

Something I've been saying for a long time.

Whatever the format I think Both Semi Finals should be played at the same ground over a single weekend (as the Magic Weekend is) but the stadia used should be in the heartlands so ether Elland Road Or City of Manchester.

Final should be at Wembley with cheep tickets for all, making revenue from advertisements, and anyone that got a 2 day Semi Final Ticket has the chance to get an even cheaper ticket at the final?
And what about a Ticket Package that gets you into the Weekend Semis and the final for a single price? that way more people will be likely to attend all three of the big games.

Lets Sell out Wembley and make a huge advertisement for both the sport and the international game!

I really like this idea, especially the playoff format with the bye for the "super" group.

Maybe I would add more complication and have a group with PNG, Wales, France + other as the "semi super" group, give top team a shot against "supergroup 4th" and then the team that comes second plays winner of "minnows" group for the mach against "supergourp 3rd".

Or scrap qualifying, make it a knockout cup and each team plays the nearest ranking team until all teams are knocked out, battle royale stylee...

A little over four years to go and I'm getting excited already!