Concerns that the 2011 Rugby World Cup would be downsized have been allayed after the International Rugby Board said on Friday it would retain a 20-team format.

The decision to keep the numbers unchanged for the tournament in New Zealand was made at a special meeting following a recommendation from the Rugby World Cup Limited Board.

It was also agreed to raise the number of automatic qualifiers from eight to 12.

"The developing nations at Rugby World Cup 2007 produced significantly enhanced performances since RWC 2003. This is a direct result of the global £30 million IRB strategic investment programme that was established in 2005," Dr Syd Millar (pictured), IRB and RWC Limited chairman said in a statement on Friday.

"Based on this plus the likelihood that surplus revenue from Rugby World Cup 2007 will provide further funds for future investment in developing nations, the Council had no hesitation in approving the recommendation from the RWCL Board that 20 teams participate at the 2011 tournament.

"The IRB is very confident that the tournament will be a huge success."

The World Cup hosted by France this year and won by South Africa was hailed as the best ever with unpredictable results such as Fiji's victory over Wales and Argentina twice beating France to finish third.

During a three-day global Rugby Forum hosted by the IRB in Woking, south of London the dates of the 2011 World Cup were also decided.

The tournament will take place in September-October with the final scheduled for the weekend of October 22-23.

Reuters