Milby in running for ExCo role

The vacancy was created earlier this year when Gareth Davies departed, having not been re-elected as a Council member.

Executive Committee (ExCo) members must be already on World Rugby's Council to be nominated, while Council members get to vote.

There are thought to be three candidates, including two women, being proposed for the position, to join a committee which has been criticised for its lack of gender balance.

Of 11 current members, there's just one woman on the group - Angela Ruggiero, the former ice-hockey Olympian.

The last time vacancies arose on the ExCo, not a single union nominated a woman and the decision faced negativecoverage around the worldabout the game's ability to be representative.

The upcoming election therefore presents a golden opportunity for World Rugby to prove what Chair Bill Beaumontrecently describedas its"unwavering commitment to advancing women in rugby both on and off the field."

Milby's name is the first to be thrown into the hat. She is currently the Philippines Rugby President and has been a World Rugby Council member since 2017, as part of a massive intake of women.

In nominating Milby, Asia Rugby said: "She would bring a voice and perspective from emerging markets that will connect with new and young audiences, so critical for the game’s ongoing success."

Milby has captained her national 15’s and 7’s teams and has worked as a Development Officer.

“There is real strategic value in having diverse thought at the highest level to ensure rugby is the sport of choice for everyone” says Milby of the opportunity.

“The impacts of COVID on the current environment coupled with pre-existing challenges to sport such as digital and technological disruptions, highlight the need to increase participation through innovative solutions and develop strong competitions in emerging markets for the long term sustainability of the Game”.