World rugby's biggest stars would jump at the chance to take part in the Olympics, players' chiefs have claimed.

The International Rugby Players' Association (IRPA) have confirmed their support for the campaign to have the sport included in the 2016 Games. Rugby, in the form of sevens, is competing with baseball and softball, golf, karate, squash and roller-sports for two places in the programme in seven years' time.

Damian Hopley, chairman of the IRPA, which represents the world's top players, said: "The IRPA are fully committed to the International Rugby Board's vision to see rugby re-included in the Olympic Games and our players have been unanimous in their support."