The practice is banned by rugby's governing body as only those who are official suppliers are able to sell packages containing match tickets.

World Rugby have again warned that tickets bought through unofficial sources are not valid and could see people turned away from grounds at this year's World Cup, due to take place in England from September 18 to October 31.

The news was welcomed by World Rugby chairman Bernard Lapasset, who warned fans they should remain vigilant if approached by unofficial ticket sellers.

"Rugby World Cup 2015 will be a very special celebration of rugby and these important steps against unofficial providers reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that fans have a wonderful England 2015 experience," he said. 

"We will continue to monitor the sale of unauthorised hospitality packages and are currently pursuing hospitality companies who engage in similar activities.

"Fans risk paying over the official price, tickets being cancelled and ultimately run the risk of their Rugby World Cup experience being ruined if they purchase from unofficial ticketing, supporter tours, hospitality and merchandise sources."

The 2015 Rugby World Cup will take place from September 18 to October 31 ©Getty Images



Lapasset added: "Rugby World Cup is the financial engine that drives the growth and development of Rugby worldwide across our 120 national unions from community to international level.

"Around 90 per cent of World Rugby's revenues come directly from the tournament's commercial programme and unofficial providers prevent fans money from going back into the sport they love."

World Rugby refused to reveal the names of those involved but they have stressed that they will continue to deal with anyone else who attempts to sell tickets through the wrong channel.

More than 20,000 new tickets were put on sale on Tuesday (March 31) which put the total rough figure of tickets currently available at 70,000.

Another batch are due to be released over the coming months and more information on buying official tickets can be accessed here.

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