O'Neill has hit back after the Sydney Morning Herald claimed he and International Rugby Board chairman Vernon Pugh were at loggerheads over television rights and ticketing.

"We have been aware of these rumours and we have received the appropriate assurances from the IRB that they have no foundation," said O'Neill.

"Where these rumours have emerged from is anyone's guess.

The report suggests Australian officials have been repeatedly reminded that staging the tournament in France would be far more lucrative with regards revenue from broadcasting and sponsorship.

On a high

"We had a similar negotiation with British Lions Limited regarding their recent tour to Australia which was an outstanding success in every aspect," added O'Neill.

"The reality is that we are engaged in a robust but fruitful negotiation and neither ourselves or the IRB have any reason to believe the tournament here and in New Zealand will be anything but an overwhelming success.

"Rugby in Australia is travelling well at the moment - we continue to deliver the results on and off the field."

O'Neill also hit out at suggestions that he and Pugh have a less than harmonious working relationship.

"Statements to the effect that I have a difficult personal relationship with IRB chairman Vernon Pugh are wide of the mark," O'Neill emphasised.

"He was my guest at the Olympics, and quite contrary to reports in today's newspapers, our relationship is excellent."