Like most of the players, Welsh Captain Sam Warburton towered over the Queen when he met her and joked about being terrified of crushing her tiny hand in his.
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“It’s been a while since we’ve been here, 2005 we were last here”.
About 400 guests are attending the evening reception, including senior officials from England Rugby 2015, Rugby Football Union, World Rugby and Rugby World Cup Ltd. As well as players from competing teams, the guest list also includes partners, staff and volunteers from the tournament.
“I didn’t know what to expect but I really enjoyed the day”.
As honorary president of England 2015, the organising committee staging the contest, Harry was tasked with giving a short speech at the reception.
Perhaps embarrassed by their failure to qualify for the knockout stage, England coach Stuart Lancaster and his captain Chris Robshaw declined to speak to the media at the reception.
Queen Elizabth II meets Canada’s James Pritchard (left) and Jebb Sinclair (centre).
And while the prince, an avid rugby fan, grinned as he posed with the trophy, it will be the closest an Englishman gets to lifting it after the team was knocked out of the competition on 3 October.
Australian Rugby Union player Stephen Moore and Australia head coach Michael Cheika talk to Prince Harry.
Britain’s Queen Elizabeth meets Uruguay’s Sebastian Pineyrua (L), Tonga’s head coach Mana Otai (2nd L), Samoa’s Alesana Tuilagi (2nd R) and Mike Stanley (R). “A massive honour, a massive privilege and grateful for the opportunity”.
All Blacks v France: Your predictions Share your stories, photos and videos. “Just because they are not in it – it’s times like these we need more support”.
“You are helping inspire children of all backgrounds to get involved with the game we all love”, he added.
‘It’s very disappointing not to still be in the World Cup. Each cheered for different sides – Harry supported England and William rooted for Wales.
William and his wife Kate proudly sported the Welsh colours while Harry wore an England rugby shirt with the message “Carry Them Home” at the back.
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“It has been one of the most competitive and entertaining World Cups ever”, Harry remarked, “This evening, we would like to thank all of you for making England 2015 such a successful and enjoyable tournament for everybody”.
