year's World Rugby Classic, which runs from November 4-11.

The European team, which will be made up of players from Italy, Holland, France and Portugal, will have a tough introduction to the tournament having been drawn against holders New Zealand in their opening match.

New Zealand have strengthened their side with the addition of recent All Blacks captain Wayne Shelford.

Shelford, who captained the all-conquering 1989 tour of Ireland and Wales, played in 20 international matches for his country -- gaining his first cap against France in 1986 and his last against Ireland in 1989.

The appearance of Shelford at number eight is guaranteed to cause problems for the opposing back rows, as will the presence of centre Joe Stanley.

Stanley, who made 25 appearances in an All Black jersey, is renowned for his strong running and his brick-wall approach to defence. A definite crowd favourite, Stanley made his debut along with Shelford in 1986, and bowed out of international rugby in the same game in 1989.

Bermuda, strengthened by Canada and possibly Argentina, will face England in their opening match.

Bermuda-born Mark Wyatt, who captained Canada in last year's World Cup and played 32 times for his country, will lead a six-strong Canadian contingent to the Classic.

England's squad will be similar to last year's with the addition of Paul Acford, who should provide a major boost in the lineouts.

Acford retired after last year's World Cup, having played 23 times at back for his country.

Scotland take on Wales in their opening encounter with two 1990 World Cup players, Peter Dods and Ian Milne, boosting their chances.

Dods played 21 times at full-back while Milne donned the dark blue jersey 46 times as prop.

Wales have still to announce their squad as do Ireland and Australia, who meet in the remaining opener.

The schedule for the World Rugby Classic is as follows: November 4: Bermuda v England; Europe v New Zealand November 5 : Australia v Ireland; Scotland v Wales November 8: Semifinals November 9: Plate semifinals November 11: Plate final; final FRESH MEAT -- Scenes from the 1991 Classic when New Zealand handled all comers. Now a Europe select will join the fray.