1994
The 1994 World Cup was initially due to be played in the Netherlands, but the Dutch pulled out of hosting duties just weeks before the event was due to start when it became clear the the IRB would not officially endorse it.
Led by Sue Brodie, a group of Scottish volunteers scrambled into action to arrange an alternative competition and eventually 11 of the original 16 entrants agreed to take part, though this did not include New Zealand whose union did not want to play in an unsanctioned event.
"How could it be that you just want to play a game, and somehow somebody somewhere has to sanction it?" - Sue Brodie, Scotland
Games were held across club grounds in Scotland and impressive crowds turned out to watch the matches, including the final, which was a repeat of three years earlier.
This time England turned the tables and beat the USA 38-23 to be crowned champions.
