Eight nations.

Ireland are set to be drawn in a pool alongside England, Wales and Georgia in the upcoming Eight Nations championship, according to a report in the Telegraph.

With Japan pulling out of the tournament it was expected that world champions South Africa would replace them, following comments from World Rugby vice-chairman Bernard Laporte.

But it now appears that Georgia will finally be given a chance a the top table but the Rugby Europe side set to be drawn in an incredibly tough group alongside three of the best teams in the world. Confirmation of their inclusion is expected in the next couple of weeks.

The other pool will see Scotland, France, Italy and Fiji face each other, with the winners of each pool meeting in a final at Twickenham on Dec 5.

And in a boost for supporters, the report adds that the RFU are optimistic that supporters may be able to attend the matches at Twickenham, having put in place safety measures for 20,000 to attend their match against the Barbarians on Oct 25.

Eight Nations Championship

POOL 1
England
Ireland
Wales
Georgia

POOL 2
France
Scotland
Italy
Fiji