Malta is among the 43 leading rugby-playing nations to be invited to send a child to deliver the official match ball on the field of play during this year’s Rugby World Cup.

The lucky winner will present the match ball to the referee at the Scotland vs United States game, taking place on September 27 at Elland Road in Leeds.

DHL Express, who are sponsoring this initiative, have teamed up with the Malta Rugby Football Union (MRFU) to organise a competition to select a child, aged eight to 15, from Malta or Gozo to attend the Rugby World Cup tournament, being held in the UK between September 18 and October 31.

Joseph Borda, chairman of the MRFU youth committee, said: “We at the MRFU are very proud to have been chosen to participate in this World Cup event.

“To be in with a chance to qualify for selection, children from Malta and Gozo are being invited to register and attend the weekly training sessions.

“These sessions are being held at the MRFU training grounds in Marsa on Sunday mornings at 9.30am.

“All those participating in these sessions will take part in a tournament on March 20 where Malta’s representative will be chosen.

“The winner will be announced during the half-time interval at the upcoming international rugby game between Malta and Switzerland at the Hibs Stadium on April 25.”

On his part, Charles Schiavone, Malta’s DHL Express Country Manager, said: “DHL is giving a child a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to deliver the official match ball to the referee at the Rugby World Cup 2015. The child and a parent/guardian will receive return flights and transfers to Leeds, two tickets to the match and two nights’ accommodation with a local DHL family.

“In addition, the child will receive an official DHL RWC merchandise kit, including uniform and rugby ball, plus a thank-you gift of a match ball delivery photo as a memento.

“This is a great way to encourage young people in Malta and Gozo to play rugby and we are looking forward to working with the MRFU on this unique initiative.”