World Cup 2019 - Team Review
POOL A
Ireland
Prediction: Quarter-final
World Ranking: 1st
Overview: The Irish finished the warm-up matches top of the
world rankings but still aren’t everyone’s favourites. Preparations for the competition
have been far from ideal despite rising to the top. A superb 16-9 win over the
All Blacks in November 2018 proved that they could mix it with the best but since
then there has been more negatives than positives. Two chastening defeats to England
(in both competitive and ‘uncompetitive’ environments) and a comprehensive loss
to Wales in the Six Nations suggests they are vulnerable. History is also
against them; their past finals form has never seen them go further than the
last eight and they’re far from guaranteed such a privilege in Japan. Joe
Schmidt’s side face a group from which they should progress. Japan, Russia and
Samoa should pose no major risk and its likely their opening game against
Scotland will decide who takes the top spot. Their opposition in the quarters
will then be either New Zealand or South Africa, perhaps the competitions two
toughest outfits. With no experience of winning international knock-out rugby matches
and the proposition of one of those hard hitters waiting Ireland will need to
be at their very best. Stepping up the intensity and physicality from their first
four matches to their fifth and beyond will be a real test, Ireland do have it
in them though.
Key Players: Devin Toner is a big name missing from the Irish
squad and his exclusion has already generated a fair amount of debate, the
decision to leave him out could prove critical. It is however, a sign Schmidt
knows to win the trophy he has to start thinking differently, winning a World Cup
requires different things to winning Six Nations titles. Of those that are
travelling half way across the world much of the expectation to succeed is down
to Ireland’s half-backs, Connor Murray and Johnny Sexton. At their best and
fully fit these two could be the key to a lengthy Irish stay in Asia, their
combinations and control together can be unplayable regardless of whether you’re
Russia or New Zealand.
Scotland
Prediction: Quarter-final
World Ranking: 7th
Overview: Scotland entered this year’s Six Nations with a
real sense that they could compete for the first time in a long time. In the
end, for large periods they were poor, beating only Italy and losing to France,
Wales and Ireland. Where they are capable of under performing with lacklustre
outings they can also conjure the brilliant. Their final game comeback against
England which saw them rally from 31-0 down to lead 38-31 (before finishing 38-38)
encompasses perfectly what this side brings to the World Cup, both implosion
and explosion are very real possibilities. Playing Ireland in their opening
match offers the opportunity to control Pool A from the off, defeat though will
leave fans biting their finger nails against first Samoa and then in the final
group game, the fired-up hosts. Their clash with Japan could effectively be a round
of 16 knockout tie. Despite all this though the Scots should still navigate
their way through the group, they played Japan four years ago in similar
circumstances winning 45-10 that day. It is then that they will need to produce
one of their stellar performances to beat either South Africa or New Zealand. The
big question is can the unreliable Scots find a way to be their very best from start
to finish? Knocked out by a refereeing error in the last World Cup Scotland
will need luck too to play its part.
Key Players: Finn Russell at his very best is what inflates
Scotland from a side that has concerns over pool stage progression to a team
that is eyeing semi-final berths. His ability to tear defences up with ball in
hand is masterful and in open games he can be untouchable. When the games are
far grittier though, as their opener against Ireland may well be, dogged
fighters like Hamish Watson will need to stand up. A man who relishes the
breakdown and winning turnovers, the Edinburgh man encapsulates a more
traditional Scottish international, but certainly not an obsolete one.
Samoa
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 16th
Overview: Blighted by some horrendous factors off the pitch Samoa
have slipped down the world rankings to a concerning 16th. Financial
limitations and coaching changes, one of which ended up in a court dispute, have
meant the Manu’s minds haven’t always been on the rugby itself. All of this has
left them in a predicament where players are avoiding pledging their allegiance
to the famous blue shirt to concentrate on their more financially stable and lucrative
club sides. Samoa qualified for the championships by beating Germany in a two-legged
playoff but outside of that encounter they’ve struggled. Of twenty-two other
games since the 2015 World Cup they have won only four, against Spain, Canada
and Tonga (twice). Their Tier 1 fixtures have been few and far between and a
lack of game time against such sides may mean the victory over either Ireland or
Scotland they need is out of reach. Samoa do possess some talented individuals and,
on their day, if they gel together and control their discipline they can potentially
challenge an out of sorts Scotland or a substandard Ireland. That said beating
Japan would be an upset at this moment in time and even a victory over Russia
can not be guaranteed completely despite it being likely. The Pacific Islanders
will need more than just one good day at the office to progress, they will need
a challenging three.
Key Players: There’s no denying Samoa have firepower in
their backs but to win regular games (something they haven’t done for a while)
they need to step up in the forwards department. Big prop Logovi’i Mulipola is
of Premiership standard and in scrappy games full of scrums his experience could
be critical. Just behind the big haired Mulipola in the pack will be captain
Chris Vui, another Premiership player currently of the Bristol Bears. With
strength, speed, and soft hands he provides the perfect bridge from the bulky
forwards to the mercurial backs.
Japan
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 10th
Overview: Having burst onto the scene four years ago when
they beat South Africa, Japan are a team on the up. Although they haven’t
beaten another Tier 1 team since their famous win in Brighton (counting Italy
as Tier 2) they’ve played eleven games garnering much experience and pushing a
few teams close. They took France incredibly close in a game that finished all
square. Although still behind the likes of Ireland and Scotland the Brave
Blossoms have showed their ability to move away from the rest of the pack, into
a position of limbo familiar to Italy, too good for those below but not quite at
the level of those above. Their record of ten wins out of fourteen since the last
World Cup against other sides (excluding their Asian Top 3 fixtures – which they
won all of) including Georgia, Romania and Italy are testament to this. In
effect the Japanese are the key to an exciting Pool A, potentially capable of
challenging the Irish and Scots but also offering an opportunity for competitive
games for Russia and Samoa too. Couple all this with the fact they’ll have a
raucous home crowd behind them wherever they go and the prospect of watching
Japan as a neutral is a tantalising one. Lets just hope they get to their final
game with Scotland still in with a chance to make the last eight.
Key Players: Captain and flanker Michael Leitch will play a
vital role both on and off the field. His ability to control and manage his
troops in front of an expectant crowd will play a crucial part. Their composure
and temperament were two big factors when they beat South Africa. Leitch played
that day along with the only two players more capped than him in the side, Luke
Thompson and Fumiaki Tanaka will also play a big role in trying to negotiate
Pool A. Kenki Fukuoka the flying winger with lightning pace will be one to
watch and if Japan go well his name will on the scoresheet more than once.
Russia
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 20th
Overview: For much of qualifying it looked like Russia would
play no part in the 2019 World Cup but when Romania and Spain were denied participation
due to a series of eligibility infringements (in a quite bizarre sequence of
events) the Bears stepped in. Having been confirmed as one of the twenty
attending teams Russia appointed a new coach in former Welsh international Lyn
Jones. Preparations have been mixed since. Jones’ new side started with a tidy
win over another World Cup team in Namibia but then were thumped by Italy 85-15
before compounding this with a 42-14 loss to club side Connacht. Russia’s only
other appearance at the finals was in 2011 when they lost all four games. It
could well be a whitewash once again with all their matches appearing tricky, Samoa
seems their most likely chance and a solitary victory could well be enough to
represent a successful campaign. As already mentioned 2011 was a fruitless
tournament in terms of wins but they did return a decent eight try haul,
scoring at least one in three of their four matches (co-incidentally not
against USA their ‘easiest’ match – they did however get a losing bonus-point).
Beating that record and providing some entertainment for their fans will be the
bare minimum for a team given a second bite of the cherry.
Key Players: Most of the Russian side will be unfamiliar to
an English rugby fan but one name may stand out. Vasily Artemyev, the team’s
captain, is a former Northampton Saint who won a Premiership title and scored a
hat-trick on debut during a successful time in the Midlands. Playing across the
back three makes Artemyev a very valuable player for his country but also means
he can be deployed in offensive and defensive roles.
POOL B
New Zealand
Prediction: Final
World Ranking: 2nd
Overview: The All Blacks have dominated rugby for some time
now and this autumn face the tantalising possibility of a third straight title.
There’s no doubt they remain big contenders, perhaps favourites still to some
but unlike previous instalments they are no longer the clear-cut front runners.
Since 2015 the invincibility aura has faded slightly with defeats to Ireland and
Australia as well as a draw with South Africa all since last November. Opposing
teams, particularly those who have beaten them, will know this is perhaps as
good a chance as it gets to usurp the defending champions. Steve Hansen has
opted to leave big names like Owen Franks at home perhaps an indicator of their
strength in depth but also a gamble that highlights uncertainty and change
within. Opening their tournament with a clash against South Africa will give an
immediate indicator of what the rest of the world are dealing with, a chance straight
away to silence the critics. The next three games before the inevitable quarter-final
will then test their concentration and mentalities more than their abilities.
Canada, Namibia and Italy are all unlikely to pose any real threat and comprehensive
wins can be expected without needing to hit top gear. Bigger tests will follow,
and New Zealand will need to ensure they can step it up, shaking off any
shackles from less challenging fixtures that could threaten to hold them down. The
All Blacks should still go deep this year but a defeat on the first weekend
could set up a last eight match against an Irish side that have beaten them
twice in the last three years. On the other hand, they are the only side that
know they can beat anyone (comfortably) even on a ‘bad’ day and they’ll feel
they have just as much chance of lifting the Webb Ellis whether they top Pool B
or not. Recent defeats will not have dented their own confidence, nor will it
have removed the winning mentality in the Kiwi camp, even if others now have renewed
hope.
Key Players: At 6ft 8’ and in excess of 19 stone, Brodie Retallick
is a monster of a man even in this star-studded All Black outfit. However, the
lock is currently ruled out until the quarter-final stage, his selection despite
this testament to just how important he is. His physicality and brute strength can
overpower the toughest of defences and if he can return on time and avoid any
complications then his involvement could well be the difference come the history
defining later games. Ardie Savea is a very different player but equally as dangerous,
his handling and sheer energy in the loose as well as at the breakdown make him
one of the finest advocates of the new-age back rower.
South Africa
Prediction: Final
World Ranking: 4th
Overview: There’s, for once, a feeling of calm about the Springboks.
Coach Rassie Erasmus has just led his side to a confidence boosting Rugby Championship
title for the first time since 2009, and so far they’ve not lost in 2019. The
demons of record defeats to New Zealand and a humbling at the hands of Italy are
a distant memory. Pool B offers them the chance to put their old rivals on the
backfoot straight away, a fixture that could well be replayed in the final on
November 2nd. This is a side currently riding a positive wave and
the longer they can keep it going the more dangerous they become. Although the
result against the All Blacks is unlikely to knock anyone out it could be
critical. A table topping Springbok side will feel they could see off either
Ireland or Scotland, even one that narrowly missed out against New Zealand will
be fired up. A big defeat early on though could affect the mood throughout the
rest of the group and into the knockouts and their progression risks becoming harder.
There is also likely to be plenty of talk of their famous defeat to Japan four
years ago and although the other three teams, Canada, Namibia and Italy should
be beatable the latter in particularly have the potential to cause old
nightmares to resurface if not taken seriously. Managing this inevitable media
frenzy in the home of the side that beat them must be managed correctly, used
to spur them on as oppose to holding them back. Try not to think of what would
happen if the Boks met Japan in the quarter-finals, what viewing that would be!
In essence this could be a very real return to the forefront of international
rugby but confidence is key for this resurging South African side and no
opposition should ever be underestimated again.
Key Players: South Africa are blessed to boast two of the
most exciting scrum-halves in world rugby right now, Faf de Klerk and Cobus
Reinach have both been brilliant in the Premiership season just gone. Both have
the power to conjure something from nothing and in doing so often orchestrate eye-catching
scores. Meanwhile at the breakdown the Springboks possess a potent threat in
their captain Siya Kolisi. Seeming always present around the ball Kolisi has
helped to ensure the Boks no longer have a soft underbelly.
Italy
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 14th
Overview: No team has won more games in the group stages yet
failed to make the last eight, a statistic Italy could well continue this time
out too. No wins in any of their Six Nations matches since the last World Cup as
well as countless other defeats to Tier 1 sides proves just how tough escaping the
group will be. Their one glimmer of hope is that their one victory against greater
opposition was a narrow win over South Africa, this however was three years ago
and half the team that day aren’t even in Conor O’Shea’s tournament squad. However
tough their plight may seem the Azzurri must ensure they face South Africa,
their third game, with wins on the board and confidence high. With Namibia and
Canada to come first the roles will be reversed and it will be Italy who are expected
to win. If they can beat both heading into their last two games, they can at
least take some motivation from the fact they know they need only one triumph
to advance. One of South Africa and New Zealand will also have in the back of
their minds that a defeat, however unlikely, to Italy would send them home.
Confidence and pressure two key factors in Italy’s campaign. The odds are
against them, but the Italians must ensure they play their big games on their
terms with the chance of advancing at least temporarily in their hands.
Key Players: No such segment on Italy is complete without
mentioning their greatest ever rugby player. Sergio Parisse will embark on his
fifth and final World Cup. No player has deserved success more than him,
standing tall above his country men there is no doubt the thirty-six year old
will lead from the front. If Italy are to cause a shock then rest assured that
Parisse will have been in the thick of it, carrying the scars of battle one final
time. The future isn’t all bleak though and a first World Cup for Jake Polledri
promises much. Also playing in the back-row its perhaps too early to say he’s the
next Parisse, but he’s certainly one to watch.
Namibia
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 23rd
Overview: Without a World Cup win and as the lowest ranked
attending nation its likely to be a rough ride for the Namibians. Coached by Welshman
and former international (as a couple of the minor nations are) Phil Davies, Namibia
secured qualification for their sixth consecutive finals by beating Kenya 53-28.
Their victory, and dominance of African qualifying shouldn’t be read into too
much, they are simply the best of a bad bunch. Outside of games against teams
from their home continent they’ve won a handful since the conclusion of the 2015
World Cup. Of eleven games they lost eight, beating Uruguay most recently and
two sides that aren’t at the tournament, Spain and Portugal. Sadly, like many of
the countries at this level there has also been plenty of coaching struggles
and financial worries that have prevented any real growth in the game. Namibia
themselves will know there’s no chance in winning against Italy, New Zealand or
South Africa and in these games, they will simply want to give a good account
of themselves. Their big game and one that could potentially put a troubled
rugby nation back on the right tracks comes against Canada. Can they taste World
Cup victory at what would be their 23rd attempt?
Key Players: It is not just the big teams that made
controversial selection calls. Davies opted to leave out former captain and
Harlequin Renaldo Bothma, in doing so passing the armband to Johan Deysel.
Playing at centre and possessing a powerful carry Deysel was the scorer of his side’s
only try four years ago against New Zealand. With a big name in Bothma left out
and a new captain required he will have to step up if his underdog nation is to
win a game. Impressing in that All Blacks game back in England was also Tijiuee
Uanivi, his abilities as a lineout jumper both in attack and defence will be
called upon regularly.
Canada
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 22nd
Overview: It comes as a shock to many that once upon a time,
back in 1991, Canada reached the quarter-finals, something the likes of Italy
have never achieved. They’ve taken part in every instalment of the competition
and up until 2007 they had won at least one game in the pool stages every time
out. Since then Canadian rugby has stagnated and they’ve won just one more
match. There have been periods of optimism, mainly before the last World Cup but
narrow defeats to the Italians and Romanians meant they never took off. Things
have picked up again though if not at the moment for the national side in terms
of rankings and results. The formation of Major League Rugby has had a big
impact and although most of the teams are US based, the Toronto Arrows have helped
establish both a fanbase and improved the professional talent pool immensely.
Although advancing from the group is near on impossible considering South
Africa and New Zealand take up residency alongside them, Canada will be pleased
with the opportunity the other two games pose. Third place and automatic
qualification awaits if they can beat the unpredictable Italians and the only
side ranked lower than them, Namibia. Just one win all calendar year though
implies this will be far from easy for a side desperate to prove the rankings
wrong.
Key Players: Their combined losing margins to Italy and
Romania four years ago was just seven points (five to Italy, two to Romania).
If things are to be as close yet again then game management and place kicking are
to be two vital components. Both are potentially, on his day, to be supplied by
fly-half Shane O’Leary. Also in the backs is DTH van der Merwe who is without
doubt the best player Canada have in their squad, his finishing can be world
class at times, but he cannot be expected to pull rabbits from hats all the
time.
POOL C
England
Prediction: Semi-final
World Ranking: 3rd
Overview: Expectations are high, the early exit at their own
party was an embarrassment and some players have waited a long four years to
right the wrongs. Eddie Jones with his World Cup pedigree was installed
following Lancaster’s departure and the intentions of English rugby were made
very clear, to lift the Webb Ellis trophy. Jones has chopped and changed his
side throughout his four years in charge, the first two of which were glorious.
England could barely put a foot wrong but 2018 proved a real test as they lost
five on the bounce and endured a torrid Six Nations. The ship has been steadied
of late and English fans will want to focus heavily on the two big wins they
had over the Irish earlier this year. A tough group saw them knocked out last
time and their pairing this time with Argentina and France means someone big is
leaving prematurely again. More settled and at ease with themselves England
will be a tough nut to crack but not impregnable. The defensive frailties of
the back three have been well documented and the over-reliance on their leaders
like Billy Vunipola and Owen Farrell means they are always walking a tightrope
with injuries. Is the strength in depth there for a long tournament and can
discipline be kept in check both on and off the field? Their major opponents Argentina
and France are also unpredictable (although usually better come World Cup time)
and England should be able to navigate one if not both. After this they will
likely meet one of their two biggest rivals, either Wales or Australia. Having
lost to both of these in the 2015 pool it will be here that Eddie’s work is
really scrutinised, particularly if they play the Welsh who have tormented them
on plenty of occasions since. There will be an air of nerves in the camp but
escape the group and England are capable of anything.
Key Players: The combination of Owen Farrell and George Ford
is one which Eddie Jones has put a lot of time and effort into. Sometimes they
are employed in tandem, at other times on their own. Farrell is an exceptional
force in defence (if not always legal) as well as a wonderful manager of territory
and games in general. Ford on the other hand is more delicate, taking the ball
to the line and unlocking defences, he offers a dangerous attacking threat. The
two also share the invaluable ability to kick goals, scoreboard pressure is
massive in test rugby and having two players with pinpoint accuracy is a
precious commodity.
France
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 8th
Overview: The French have never failed to make it out of a
World Cup pool, but the consensus is that this year that proud record could be
tested. Their performances on the pitch have been up and down to say the least,
a disappointing Six Nations saw them beat only Scotland and Italy. There has been
a plethora of nine-ten combos installed over the years and you still get the
feeling Jacques Brunel is none the wiser as to who to start. Such important positions
need regularity and the unorganised, chaotic French sides we’ve seen of late
are likely down to such indecision. France however do have a very capable side,
sprinkled with brilliant talents. To beat either England or Argentina as their
job effectively is, they need control and order but also to play as a fifteen-man
team. The first two games of the 2019 Six Nations highlighted these flaws perfectly.
In the first France threw away a 16-0 lead at half-time against Wales, a professional
performance up till then was ruined by moments of individual madness and the
fact no-one was willing to take control, simply letting the game slip away. The
second game in question saw them thrashed by England 44-8. The English
exploited the same French weakness that day numerous times, yet no-one seemed
capable of addressing it until it was too late. There was no direction or unity
that day and players seemed intent on operating as individuals as oppose to a
team. Its not hard to see where France’s troubles lie, if they haven’t come up
with answers and got everyone singing from the same hymn sheet they could face
a difficult time in Japan. Not just from England and Argentina but the rest of the
group too.
Key Players: Guilhem Guirado is perhaps the only one who can
be excused from all the negatives above. As captain his work will be cut out to
keep his boisterous charges in line and his presence makes the implosions
France are capable of a little less likely. Not shying from the nuts and bolts
stuff Guirado is a powerful carrier, accurate hooker and lover of the breakdown
contest. There’s little flair with this man but his direct approach can often
be just as destructive as the risk-ridden offloads of his teammates. Damien
Penaud, a winger, is a very different prospect. The Clermont flyer has great
speed, footwork and a booming kick. When France need to make quick yards or
exploit space Penaud is the man.
Argentina
Prediction: Quarter-final
World Ranking: 11th
Overview: The Pumas haven’t won a game in over a year, but
coach Mario Ledesma reckons they can still win the World Cup. Victory may be a
step too far, but it takes a brave man to write off an Argentinian side that
has traditionally ripped up form books to play their best rugby at the big event.
They made the last four in two of their last three competitions and in the
other they were knocked out in the quarter-finals by eventual winners New
Zealand. In the last two tournaments they have opened with defeats though and you
get the sense that this time against France they cannot allow for such
hesitations. Their game with England will undoubtedly be a contest but one they
will probably lose, even more so if they lose to France. If, however they travel
to Tokyo with a French win under their belt they will be able to play with a
bit more freedom, being expansive and playing openly which is where they are
most dangerous, such a game plan may see them spring a surprise and top the
table. The French test will be much more attritional, both teams will set up to
avoid losing such a critical game and Argentina must use the experiences they’ve
had in the testing Rugby Championships to graft a win from somewhere. Its going
to be make or break for the Pumas right from the start but the longer they’re
still in the draw the stronger they’ll become. Every side will sleep a little
easier once the South Americans have been knocked out, whenever that may be.
Key Players: Agustin Creevy may no longer be captain but his
importance as a leading figure in the Puma ranks still remains. An expert around
rucks and in the tackle Creevy’s prowess will be so important in those tighter
games. Where Creevy is the versatile front row forward Emiliano Boffelli is the
same in the backs. Able to play a variety of positions, Boffelli will make his World
Cup debut and will be hungry to show off his talents which include being able to
slot kicks from his own half, concede penalties at your own peril Pool C.
United States
Prediction: Group Stage
World Ranking: 13th
Overview: It’s unlikely that anyone other than England,
France or Argentina will advance but the USA won’t completely rule out their
chances of affecting proceedings in their own way. Perhaps the strongest team to
ever come to a World Cup from the States this is a side ranked higher than the
more familiar rugby names of Tonga, Samoa and Italy. Armed with a professional
league to supplement their increasing number of players playing in the top
European divisions expect to see higher levels of fitness and wider skill-sets
across the board. Couple this with an accomplished coaching team and the
building blocks of a successful rugby nation are beginning to fall into place. Victory
over Tonga will be the main goal but a competition where they can take at least
one of the other three close would be a success. Nothing has yet to be
officially announced but its no secret that the US have plans to host the World
Cup one day, potentially as soon as 2027. The sleeping giant is primed to wake
up sooner rather than later, will it be this year? If you’re hoping to see something
similar to the infamous Japanese win four years ago then watching the US could
be your best bet.
Key Players: Joe Tautefe’e is the best of an impressive Eagles’
forward pack, the Worcester man is the world’s highest scoring international hooker.
His performance in his country’s most famous win over Scotland proof of a man
not overwhelmed by the prospect of facing the world’s best. The master puppeteer
though is twenty-nine year old AJ McGinty. The Sale fly-half won the Pro12 with
Connacht and is a dangerous playmaker, particularly with front-foot ball. Both
will need to be at their best if the US are to make their mark.
Tonga
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 15th
Overview: The lead up to this year’s World Cup has been far
from perfect for the Pacific island nation of Tonga. A disappointing Pacific
Nations Cup saw them finish second bottom and then their ambitious pre-tournament
match with the All Blacks finished 92-7. A defeat of that magnitude, even if it
was New Zealand must have left coach Toutai Kefi struggling to find positives. Despite
any form (one win in their last seven) you can be assured that the competitions
smallest side will be upbeat and buoyant. Like many of their neighbours and
other smaller (both in rugby and geographical terms) countries they have been
inhibited by financial woes and eligibility rules. A recent video of those
players that have been selected singing traditional songs on their plane to Japan
is proof though that this is a vibrant, resilient and proud rugby nation. The Tongans
are capable of being a far better team than their ranking suggests, not totally
reliable but capable of causing shocks nonetheless. In the 2011 pool stages they
beat a French team that made it all the way to the final. They themselves never
made it out the group though because two games earlier they’d lost to Canada
25-20. This year Tonga will need to recreate their victory over the French and
some. Three wins will guarantee a last eight berth that an ambitious Tongan
team will be aiming for. If they do indeed start turning over the likes of
France, Argentina or England then they need to make sure they do not slip up in
their final match against the US. In all honesty the unreliability of Tonga
will mean they will probably only win one at most, who this is against though
is anyone’s guess.
Key Players: Many teams have been spotted training with soap
covered balls as a tactic for dealing with the humid Asian conditions. When
they face Tonga and specifically Telusa Veainu they’re going to feel like
trying to catch an entire human-being covered in suds. His footwork and ability
to escape a tackle is breath-taking and the World Cup will be a better place if
he’s at 100%. Sonatane Takulua is another with speed and an eye for a gap. The scrum-half
is also his side’s goal kicker and his form and success throughout will go a long
way in deciding how well his country do.
POOL D
Australia
Prediction: Quarter-final
World Ranking: 6th
Overview: Never write the Germans off in football and never
do the same for the Ozzies when it comes to rugby. There’s yet to be a World Cup
where Australia don’t make it through the pool stages and with the sides alongside
them this time they should advance once more. Michael Cheika led the Wallabies to
second place four years ago in England and he will be hoping to go one step
further this time. His, and Australia’s time in between has not been the smoothest
though, in 2018 they won just 31% of their games. Encouragingly their best win
in that period came earlier this year when they beat the All Blacks quite
brilliantly 47-26 in the Rugby Championship. Having looked like they were
hitting form at just the right time, people began to speculate about Australia’s
capabilities, expectation and pressure that saw them self-destruct. A week
later they were beaten 36-0 in Auckland, a shadow of the side they’d been seven
days earlier. Even an out of sorts Australia should cruise by Uruguay; Georgia
and Fiji will be tougher tasks but winnable nonetheless. The game against Wales
to see who finishes first in the pool promises to be massive. Avoiding England
will be Australia’s desired route, they’ve lost to the Red Roses in all six
games since the 2015 World Cup, although they did beat them in that very
competition. Argentina on the other hand they’ve beaten six out of seven times since
then, whilst they’ve played France just once a game which they also won.
Key Players: Samu Kerevi is a big ball-carrying centre and
the battering ram in the Australian side. Designed to draw defenders in and
punch holes, Kerevi causes plenty of damage himself but his physicality also opens
space for others around him. Sekope Kepu in the front row is unlikely to be
making any clean breaks like Kerevi but his one hundred and six caps and the
experience that comes with them will be equally important in numerous key
scrums.
Wales
Prediction: Semi-final
World Ranking: 5th
Overview: Only a month ago Wales were ranked number one in
the world, the fact they’ve slipped to fifth shows just how close so many teams
are. A superb and faultless Six Nations got the year off to a brilliant start
but back-to-back defeats in the tournament run-up by Ireland has dented confidence.
However, the biggest potential derailment of Welsh World Cup plans has come
just days before their first game with Georgia. Rob Howley the side’s highly
influential backs coach has been sent home for alleged betting breaches. A
coaching team led by Warren Gatland that was looking to bow out with its head
held high has been prematurely split, no-one will know the true effects until the
games start coming thick and fast. Any early exit before the semi-finals is
likely to be blamed, to some degree, on Howley, right or wrong. There is also missing
personnel on the pitch, big names like Taulupe Faletau and Gareth Anscombe are
out injured, whilst Rhys Webb playing in France, does not have the required
caps to make him selectable under Welsh eligibility criteria. If present these
three could well have been the ‘key players’ noted below, instead Wales have to
make do without. Regardless of those back home this is still a Welsh team capable
of fielding a strong side, although their strength in depth could be a problem
if more fitness woes surface. Having said that though the group they find
themselves in gives them an opportunity to manage this, only Australia in
theory should require a first XV to win. Georgia and Fiji are banana skins, but
some squad rotation can be allowed here and their final fixture with Uruguay is
perfectly placed to allow complete changes and experimentation should Gatland
wish. Like Australia, Wales will want to avoid England but their pedigree of
beating their neighbours in big games means even an Ozzie defeat and second
place finish will not dampen the spirits of side that will be keen to start
letting their rugby do the talking.
Key Players: The combination of Dan Biggar and Gareth Anscombe
had been working quite nicely for the Welsh but following the latter’s injury
Biggar will need to step up and take sole lead. Their star in the World Cup last
time he will be required to marshal and lead his men once more, especially in
attack. With the unreliable Rhys Patchell the reserve option at fly-half
Gatland will need Biggar to be at his best both physically and mentally. Wales have
an ability to stick around in matches and to grind down opposition through
tireless work ethic and impressive fitness, no-one embodies this better than
the evergreen captain Alun Wyn-Jones.
Georgia
Prediction: Group-stage
World Ranking: 12th
Overview: Its clear in the current climate that the powers
that be are not keen on adding promotion and relegation to the Six Nations. Too
good for their current regular tournament, the Rugby Europe Championship, which
they have won ten of the last twelve years their growth has been stunted by being
denied regular Tier 1 test. The World Cup offers them a chance to force World Rugby’s
hand. England four years ago was a disappointment despite finishing third in
the pool and ensuring automatic qualification for Japan. They beat Tonga in
their opener but then were blown away by their two Tier 1 teams, Argentina and
New Zealand. A narrow one-point win over Namibia served as little consolation.
This time the Georgians will want to replicate their victory over Pacific island
opposition and produce a far more convincing performance when playing the group’s
weakest side Uruguay. Most crucial to their development will be how they fare
against Australia and first Wales, proving they can at the very least challenge
on the big stage is essential. Playing the Welsh on the first Monday is a real
positive. Georgia’s strengths are very heavily weighted within their forward
pack and scrappy, tight, unorganised games that often come at the start of
championships play to their strengths. Add this to the fact Wales are currently
in a media maelstrom over their backs coach Rob Howley’s departure and Georgia
could be eyeing a famous win over a side that have struggled in the groups
before. Although much closer in the ranking department victory over Fiji is no
guarantee, playing a fast, high-tempo game they could well damage a large and
relatively immobile side like Georgia. Los Lelos, as they are known to fans, have
had a highly successful under 20s team for some time now and there are eleven
players twenty-three or younger in the tournament squad. Youth is getting the nod,
but old hands remain to guide the way, Mamuka Gorgodze has been called out of retirement
and Davit Kacharava is still there with his one-hundred and sixteen caps. Qualification
looks unlikely for Georgia who seem trapped between the past and present, they’d
love a win against Australia or Wales but will know even their best may not
guarantee that. Finishing third through wins over Fiji and Uruguay and competitive
losses elsewhere should keep the majority back home happy. Los Lelos will know,
if not this time, that their successful youngsters will one day reap their
rewards.
Key Players: Mamuka Gorgodze, or ‘Gorgodzilla’ as he is
known is the most famous Georgian to ever play the game. In May 2017 Gorgodze
retired from the national squad but has returned to the international fray
following a series of injuries. His value to the team is perhaps best
highlighted by going back to their defeat (43-10) to New Zealand in 2015 where
despite the result he still got man of the match. As already mentioned there are
plenty of younger players in this year’s Georgia side and one of the most promising
is Beka Gorgadze. Playing in the back-row for French side Bordeaux he is a
versatile talent and one who will be keen to prove, not just for himself but
for his compatriots that its possible to be both an under 20s star and a senior
one.
Fiji
Prediction: Group-stage
World Ranking: 9th
Overview: Fiji remain one of the most feared ‘third sides’
to have in your group. In 2007 they reached the quarter-finals courtesy of a
famous victory over Wales but have since struggled. Most Fijians optimistically
read into this as another upset is due, and they may well have reason too. Under
the watchful eye of John McKee they’ve beaten the Maori All Blacks, France, Scotland
and have even pushed the Irish close, all since 2017. Their form is looking
good and their side is full of talent, but they will need to find a new level
to beat Australia in their opening game. You feel that in 2015 their ambitions were
stifled by that initial loss to the hosts and things never really recovered. Fiji
haven’t beaten Australia since 1954, despite numerous attempts, but if a couple
of Nakarawa offloads come off and Vereniki Goneva can break a tackle or two the
cat could be set amongst the pigeons. A good start is vital, and the Fijians
will hope by the time they play Wales they are more like the rampaging heroes
of 2007 as oppose to the star-struck and dazed individuals that were hammered
66-0 by the same side four years later. If they can indeed advance to the
quarters no team should regard this as a free pass to the semis. Pool C’s sides
will have one eye on Australia or Wales, an advancing in-form Fiji side though
will be a completely different but equally dangerous prospect.
Key Players: Leone Nakarawa is the joint most experienced
player (along with Goneva) in the Fiji squad with fifty-seven caps and it is he
who can light the touchpaper. Capable of audacious offloads he can set loose a
lightning back-line in seconds and can turn the most mundane attacks into
eye-catching scores. Tall and strong his talents will also be displayed in the
lineout and around rucks and mauls. Fitness and discipline are always
highlighted as lower ranked teams weaknesses so having the ability to control
the tempo can be essential, Ben Volavola, the fly-half will be responsible for
this.
Uruguay
Prediction: Group stage
World Ranking: 19th
Overview: This is no longer an amateur filled side as it was
in England four years ago, many players, still not all, are now professionals.
Despite this and a range of other related improvements Uruguay remain massive
underdogs in what for them is a tough group devoid of any game that offers much
chance. Their closest opposition in terms of rank is Georgia, who are 12th,
in rugby terms that’s a chasm. Seven spots away is a far larger gap than any
other team in the competition has to another. Uruguay may be entering the
tournament with ambitions to try and win just one game but in a way the case
can be made that they have the hardest task of any side attempting to achieve
their respective goals. Having said that they’re a side in pretty good form,
they’ve won three of their last four against sides also qualified including an
away triumph against the USA. This victory will likely be talked about a lot in
the changing rooms before the clash against Georgia, a side they’ve lost their
last three against and haven’t beaten since 2004 (Uruguay were ranked 16th
and Georgia 22nd at that point). It won’t help either that two key
players aren’t in Japan with the rest of the team, one retired relatively
unexpectedly and the other is injured. Mario Sagario was once of Munster before
he called time on his national side whilst Rodrigo Ortega of Castres has a
herniated disk.
Key Players: Any side up against the group Uruguay have
needs their captain to lead from the front. There’s likely to be more than one
occasion where Juan Manuel Gaminara is required to encourage and reenergise his
team. A small flanker he’s a bundle of energy much in the same mould as Scotland’s
Hamish Watson, unlike the Edinburgh man he stills works as an accountant
though. At the other end of the height spectrum is 6ft 8’ Oyonnax lock Manuel
Leindekar, master of the lineout he will hoping that this facet of Uruguay’s
game goes smoothly.
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