Cybersquatters in rugby domain scrummage

After England's success in the Rugby World Cup, internet speculators have been scrumming down to grab websites related to the team.

While the bookies are bringing down the odds on who will be knighted, speculators are snapping up domain names associated with those squad members believed to be first in line to visit Buckingham Palace following the New Year's Honours list.

NetNames claims that England coach Clive Woodward has emerged as the favourite among speculators, as sirclivewoodward.com and sirclivewoodward.co.uk were both registered by a French company within hours of England's victory.

Jonathan Robinson, director of business development at NetNames, said in a statement: "England's rugby stars have shot into the limelight in recent days making them increasingly at risk from internet money-makers and individuals who want to set up websites which may not have team members' best interests at heart.

"High-profile sports personalities need to stay ahead of the game by being aware of the value of their online reputation and taking active steps to ensure that people do not try to cash in on their names."