Team of the Pool Stages

After three weeks and 40 fixtures, the pool stages of the 2015 Rugby World Cup have come to an end. It's been nothing short of mesmerising and majestic at times, and while there has been the odd drab game (Ireland v Italy comes to mind) it has been arguably the greatest world cup ever. We have seen displays of pure attacking brilliance, sheer grit and determination in defence, shocks as Tier 2 nations played well above their expectations, and Tier 1 nations fall apart under pressure. So who have been the stand out players at during the pool stages?

Fullback - Ayumu Goromaru

Goromaru has been the figure head of the Japanese bid for glory at this World Cup. He has been a constant attacking threat, hitting the line with ferocity using his considerable bulk do make consistent gain-line successes. But it has been his kicking that has set him apart, out of hand it has been accurate and powerful putting Japan in the right areas of the pitch from which to act out their game plan, off the tee he has been nothing short of quality. It has always been a problem of smaller nations, lacking a quality goal-kicker who could keep the score board ticking over, not so for Japan this year with Goromaru kicking well into the 80%'s which is expected of Tier One goal kickers.

Honourable Mentions: Mike Brown, Joaquin Tuculet

Right Wing - Nehe Milner-Skudder

New Zealand have not looked anywhere near they're best at this tournament, making a lot of mistakes where normally there'd be none. Milner-Skudder has been a shining light amid a pretty poor showing, I picked him to be a star at this World Cup and he's come through on that promise. His jinking feet have wrong footed multiple defenders, allowing him - despite his small frame - to work his way over the gainline and offload the ball. He's also show an innate ability to finish tries squeezing a couple in at the corner with remarkable agility, but can also set them up for others around him with subtle hands and a knack for offloading.

Honourable Mentions: Anthony Watson, Santiago Cordero

Outside Centre - Damian De Allende

This is a tough one to do, because no outside centre has stood out enough so far, so instead I've moved De Allende from 12 to 13, it seems a reasonable enough move for him, with his strong running and surprising turn of pace. His most shocking trait is his ability to move his large powerful frame around defenders, he is surprisingly light on his feet. I was surprised to see him dropped in favour of De Villiers for the opening game, but an unfortunate injury to the national captain meant that he got his chance. He has really brought the South African attack to life at the end of the pool stages, and could be a crucial player for them in the quarter final against Wales.

Honourable Mentions: Mathieu Bastareaud, Scott Williams, Ciaran Hearn

Inside Centre - Matt Giteau

He has just oozed class in the Australian midfield, alongside Bernard Foley was responsible for the shredding of the England back-line. He offers a left footed option for clearances, and a creative brain with the skills to execute an attacking game plan both sides of the breakdown. It hasn't just been his skills, he has put his body on the line again and again for his home country, proving that the effort put into bringing the ex-pat's back into the fold has been worth it, willing to take the ball into contact hard and do what it takes to win the game. Not to mention a nicely finished try, showing he hasn't lost too much pace, against England.

Honourable Mentions: Sonny Bill Williams, Robbie Henshaw

Left Wing - DTH Van der Merwe

Another easy pick, in a Canada side that has played well in most of their games, and probably deserved more than four losses. DTH has been nothing short of world class, busting tackles, chasing down ever kick, scoring in every game, there is nothing more you want from your winger. He would walk into any other side at this World Cup, hopefully Canada can up their game and build a team around him four years down the line.

Honourable Mentions: Nemani Nandolo, 

Fly Half - Daniel Biggar

Engineered a Wales win at Twickenham with a fearless display, imperious in the air, lethal from the tee, and a general on the field who makes the right decision at the right time. Almost designed a victory over the Wallabies with superb defence and aerial ability, but missed his first kick of the tournament that day too. While everyone else around him has been falling foul of injuries he has provided a steady rock from which Gatland has formed his back division. He made some decisions that potentially cost the game against Australia, but deserves his sport

Honourable Mentions: Bernard Foley, Nicholas Sanchez

Scrum Half - Fourie du Preez

Nothing has proven the veterans worth to the South African team than the fact he was missing against Japan when South Africa had no doubt their worst performance in a long time. du Preez provides a wealth of experience and precision that a youthful looking back-line has needed. He dictates how South Africa play, controlling the style and making sure they are the team dominating the territory and possession. He will never be a scrum half who can make the break or score many tries, but he controls the tempo and make's sure the exciting back-line functions as peak efficiency. 

Honourable Mentions: Gareth Davies, Greig Laidlaw

Loose-head Prop - Scott Sio

Who would have thought that an Australian prop would get on a World XV? But the Australian scrum has been nothing short of gigantic, I mean when a team scrummages England off the paddock - the Twickenham paddock at that - you know they are a force to be reckoned with. His force around the park is nothing to be sniffed at either, strong ball carrying with an distinct Australian passing ability. Utterly superb across every facet of the game that he is needed for, and a little more besides, and he's still a relative youngster, foundations for a dangerous Australia for years to come.

Honourable Mentions: Campese Ma'afu, Marco Ayerza

Hooker - Guilhem Guirado

A difficult choice, but eventually I had to go with the rampaging, free running Frenchman. On more than one occasion we have seen him on a bullocking run up field put through a hole by one of his compatriots. He has incredible speed for a hooker, something that is fast becoming a trait of international hookers across the world, he also executes the basic's extremely well with his work at the line out and the driving maul. Is an important player for France as they head into a quarter final battle royal against New Zealand.

Honourable Mentions: Dane Coles, Agustin Creevy

Tight-head Prop - Rabah Slimani

Another French front rower who has impressed in the loose at this World Cup, completing a delightful chip and chase by Freddie Michalack to score under the posts, he has also been one of France's chief ball carriers around the breakdown. However it's been at scrum time where he has been most impressive, ousting the set piece behemoth that is Nicolas Mas is no mean feat, and yet Slimani has done it with ease once again giving France a scrummaging platform from which to attack. Could be crucial against a sub-par New Zealand scrum.

Honourable Mentions: Sekope Kepu, WP Nel

Second Row - Iain Henderson & Leon Nakarawa

With Paul O'Connell's recent forced retirement, it is of great relief to the Irish fans that the Ulsterman Henderson has be putting in some of the performances of the tournament. He has been a force to be reckoned with in the contact area, stealing far too many meters than anyone should at international level, constantly pumping the legs into and through the collision dragging flailing defenders with him. Combine this with his ability to keep the ball free and look to deliver it out of the contact, and his strength in the line out and he has burst on to the scene at the right time for the Irish faithful and Joe Schmidt.

The Fijian Nakarawa has been nothing short of superb, strong into the contact, devilishly good at offloading, fierce in defence but perhaps most impressively is his ability to win turnovers. For such a tall man his ability to get into a ruck and win the ball is unparalleled, and it has been a source from which Fiji rattled all three of the Pool A giants are some stage. His confidence with ball in hand is up there with Sonny Bill Williams, and with his added height he is able to look for the pass over the top of reaching defenders. Nothing short of wonderful to watch and it's a shame he is leaving the tournament.

Honourable Mentions: Alun Wyn Jones, Lood de Jager, Joe Launchbury

Blindeside Flanker - Mamuka Gorgodze

Played pretty much everywhere across the backrow at some stage this tournament, and put in an incredible performance no matter what shirt he wore. His leadership qualities are second to none, dragging is team forward with grit, determination and aggressive willpower, and because of that Georgia secured automatic qualification for the tournament in 2019. He has a fantastic report with the referee's, is never shirking in his defensive duties, and scoring tries at the other end of the field too. Nothing short of fantastic, another who every team in the world would love to have him in their side.

Honourable Mentions: Francois Louw, Peter O'Mahony

Openside Flanker - David Pocock

While he has been playing at No. 8 all tournament, he is naturally and naturally an openside. There are not enough adjectives for how good he has been, especially after two years out of the game. He wins uncountable number of turnovers, and those times he doesn't he slow the ball so much the Australian defence has reformed and looks entirely solid. The entire world knows what he can do in defence, its with the ball in hand that he has upped his game. At the back of the driving mauls he has turned close range try scoring into an art form, and he has stepped up his ball carrying and taking it to the opposition. Getting away without a formal citing after a suspicious knee against Wales was crucial to Australia at this World Cup.

Honourable Mentions: Michael Hooper, Sam Warburton

Number 8 - Talupe Faletau

Wales' scrum has been shambolic, and despite this Wales have pulled off the impossible and qualified for the knock-out stages, that is in no small part down to Faletau. He has pulled off feats the defy belief at times, gathering the ball behind a retreating pack and still making considerable yardage while staying on his feet long enough for support to arrive and secure possession. His work in the loose has been superb as well, often appearing in the wider channels to eat up the distance in front of him, before showing a soft pair of hands to release the players around him. He is paramount to Wales' chances at this World Cup, and is fast becoming the best No. 8 in the world.

Honourable Mentions: Louis Picamoles, Amanaki Mafi

Australia vs Wales, the Pool of Death climax

So it's all come down to this, after months, years of planning and preparation and worries over getting out of the Pool of Death, one game decides 1st and 2nd place in Pool A. Both Australia and Wales have already qualified for the knock out stages, both are equal on points heading into the final match, and both know that top spot offers an easier route to the final. So the question is who can take the spoils at Twickenham.

Battle of the 10's, both Biggar and Foley have been amazing so far

Missing midfield magic?

In the matches leading up to Saturday it's obvious there is a disparity in form between the two teams, yes they have both won all three, but Australia have looked far more comfortable in their victories than the Welsh. This could be down in part to the fact that Wales seem incapable of playing a game without picking up an injury at the moment, every red-shirted supporter will be hoping they can come through Australia without a big name limping off. What Wales have managed to do is win ugly, against England where they had no right to win the game, second best for most of the match, they eeked out the win with the peerless Dan Biggar having the game of his life (including the game against South Africa last year). Not to mention that piece of magic from the pair of scrum halves. Having to face Fiji barely five days later was always going to be tough, and it showed, despite early promise of try scoring Wales looked tired during the second half and ended up on the ropes near the end. But once again the level head of Biggar combined with the leadership across the park saw them through. Also the benefits of all the pre-tournament training camps are showing, Wales looked far fitter and capable of pulling off the heroics at the death than England, and managed to survive against Fiji. Wales are lacking the ability to excite at the moment with the likes of Amos and Scott Williams injured, but they have developed a habit of winning, and results are all that matter in a World Cup.

Hooper & Pocock have been amazing so far,

Meanwhile Australia are getting those results while playing the best looking rugby of the tournament. Playing double open sides they have ripped good teams apart with ease, but it's how they've gone about using their two open sides that has impressed me. There is an obvious plan there, where each man knows their role in play. Pocock with his unparalleled ability to win turnovers, clamping down on the ball with all the suction of a limpet mine, and that's all he does. Meanwhile the supremely athletic Hooper is given licence to cause chaos as a tackler, often the primary defender from lineouts he rushes up to bring down the ball carrier in ferocious collisions. Pocock follows around his team-mate waiting for those swift tackles where the opposition doesn't have enough support. Unfortunately for Australians (and perhaps some vengeful English) Hooper is banned for this game, but Australia have another openside flanker to parachute into the role with the young McMahon stepping up after captaining the side against Uruguay. Open-sides isn't the only place Cheika has the opposition seeing double, playing two class play makers at 10 and 12, giving them creativity across the park, able to attack both sides of the breakdown with ease and confidence. It also provides Australia with a very strong kicking game with both Foley and Giteau moving the ball around the park with precision.

Ledesma has transformed Australia

It seems weird that we have to discuss the Australian scrum, but it has to be mentioned. For years it was the laughing stock of the Tier 1 international game, that is until the induction of Scott Sio at loose-head and the former Argentina Mario Ledesma as forwards coach. Now Australia possess one of the best scrums in the world, providing an incredible platform from which Australia can unleash their back line, or win penalties for Foley to knock calmly through the posts.

Anyway that's enough about the previous games, we've seen more than once in rugby matches where the form book get's ripped up and thrown out the window, so what matters is what happens on the day. So who is taking the field? Australia have stuck to their guns, as well as they can, excluding the missing Hooper and the injured winger Horne, especially with both Folau and Giteau passing their fitness tests hours before the (delayed) team announcement. The strong front row of Sio, Moore and Kepu remains to target a Welsh scrum that has struggled so far this tournament. The back row even without Hooper continues in the same vein. The backline again remains unchanged from the team that beat England, Foley and Giteau looking to control the game, while Folau, Ashley-Cooper and (the freshly drafted in) Mitchell provide plenty of excitement and try scoring ability out wide.

Folau has been passed fit, and could wreak havoc on Saturday

Gatland has made some big calls for selection

On the opposite side of the field, Gatland has torn up the form book, for the last few years Wales' team has been predictable, but the Kiwi has always had the ability to drop a bomb in team selection: Warburton as captain four years ago, North test cap at 18 years old, no room for O'Driscoll in the Lions final test. And it's safe to say he's done it again. While certain players are carrying knocks, they are available to play, Gatland is probably looking ahead to the knock-out groups where the defensive bravery of Lydiate and strong ball carrying of Bradley Davies will be needed. So instead in the pack, the maul destroying Luke Charteris has been brought in, and after months of Welsh fans begging for the inclusion of Justin Tipuric, he starts. Wales combating the two open-side flankers of Australia with their own two, who so expertly destroyed the English two years ago. In the front row Wales have brought in their strongest scrummagers, Gethin Jenkins get's rested as Paul James gets a chance to prove his prowess, while the highly rated Samson Lee has recovered from his ankle/heel issues to form the corner stone at tight-head.

Anscombe is a Super XV winning fullback, can he show it on the Test stage?

The pack isn't the only place Gatland has made some eye opening choices, super-star George North fills in the outside centre berth he excelled in last time Wales faced Australia (in 2013), looking to recover the form he had for the Lions against the Wallabies. In attack all supporters will love to see North get his hands on the ball far more often, but defensively he will be facing a baptism of fire in the toughest position. With North out of position, the out of form Cuthbert retains his place, as maverick Liam Williams returns from injury this time at wing. Lastly is Gareth Anscombe winning his first ever test start, at full back. It's certainly a risk, even though Anscombe had a good game from the bench against Ireland, after his inconsistent performances for the Cardiff Blues last season. Although he does come with some very strong credentials in the fullback position, after filling the shirt for the Chiefs the year they won the Super XV title. But the long and the short of it is, he is facing up against arguably the best fullback in world rugby, and he has to prove he is deserving of the central contract his on.

This game is the biggest of the World Cup so far, who ever wins it has a very strong chance of reaching the final, while whoever loses faces two serious battles to make the final. The fact that Australia are winning their games comfortably and in total control gives them the edge this weekend, especially if Wales are incapable of fixing the issues at the scrum. But Wales have shown that if they are within a score  when the game comes down the final moments they have the ability to steal a win, or defend a lead, something they haven't managed to do over the last few years - especially against the Australia.

Prediction: Australia by two scores

England out played and out of the cup

This World Cup just keeps bringing the shocks, it wasn't enough to have Georgia beat Tonga, or Japan beat South Africa, or Japan beat Samoa, or a injury ridden Wales win at Twickenham, no it transpired that England had to be knocked out of their own World Cup before the quarter finals. It is the worst thing that could have happened for the host nation, but one of the big three had to be knocked out, it just so happened to be the men in white.

Looking back, even from the warm-up matches England didn't look secure, the pack seemed inconsistent at set-piece, and the back line was changed again and again never settling. Lancaster has had four years to settle on his best team, but has never managed it. Looking at the team that took the field against Australia in the crunch match, the front row seemed strong, but Tom Youngs has always been behind Hartley before now, and Joe Marler has been accused of illegal scrummaging all tournament. In the locks, I don't think anyone knows who the first choice selection is, Parling was brought in as emergency at the lineout, breaking apart the apparent choice of Lawes/Launchbury. Also in the squad the inexperienced George Kruis was selected over the power-house Dave Attwood, it reeked of confusion. The back-row  also suffered considerable chopping and changing, Robshaw was the eternal ever present unsurprisingly, but Tom Wood never really nailed down the shirt and the inform warrior of Haskell was often over looked despite the job he did on Wales during the 6 Nations. At No. 8 England possess two of the best ball carrying options in the British Isles, yet neither performed consistently for long enough (both picking up injuries was worrying regularity) to build a reputation in the international game.

Although despite all the inconsistency in the pack, they look positively settled compared to the constant changing in the England back-line. While a lot of this is down to injuries of England's pick name players it's still surprising just how often England changed their set up. Ben Youngs was in firm possession of the nine shirt into the World Cup, but never seemed trusted enough to last a whole game - always substituted early in the second half despite often being England's best player - we'll touch on Lancaster bench usage later. You can argue that this was Lancaster picking on form, but Danny Care was the live-wire that unleashed the England back-line in the past. Just outside him was the constant battle between Farrell and Ford, both worthy international fly-halves and in was always going to be difficult to choose between the two. In the warm-ups Ford looked a little lacking in control, and maybe it was expected that Farrell was going to bring an element of control for the big matches. The confusing thing was that - against Australia any way - England looked to utilise the Bath style attacking technique, surely logically you should pick the Bath fly-half to pull that off? It was incredibly noticeable when Ford came on against Australia that their attack picked up and they look much better with ball in hand.

England still are unsure as to who should be at fly-half

Did England miss Tuilagi?

The midfield partnership that every team needs, the Nonu/Smith of New Zealand, the Roberts/Davies of Wales (missing from this World Cup) and the similarly legendary D'Arcy/O'Driscoll of Ireland, didn't exist for England. It's largely down to a rather endless supply of injuries to Lancaster's preferred two of Barritt/Tuilagi, the argument is, do you back your preferred choice for when they are both fit, or do you attempt to create a new centre combination to avoid what happened this World Cup? Barritt has been injured for ages, and Tuilagi was missing for disciplinary reasons. They still had the majestic Jonathan Joseph but during this year they failed to team him up with anyone consistently, and it got to the World Cup where they combined him with a brand new inside centre for the first time. And we wont delve down the rabbit hole discussion of Burgess.

The England back-three was perhaps the only settled section in the entire team, Mike Brown is the best fullback in the northern hemisphere at the moment, Anthony Watson showed just how lethal a finisher he is, despite playing all of his club rugby at fullback, and Jonny May found some quality form, backing his speed rather than constantly trying side step through the defence.

Overall the writing was on the wall for England, not in a strong foreboding way but the signs were there. Against France the scrum crumpled, which then happened again in the opening match against Fiji. That game against Fiji wasn't exactly the type of game to fill the fans with confidence, yes they got the bonus point (something neither Wales nor Australia managed) but they were wholly unconvincing, and lucky not to have lost it around the 60 minute mark as Fiji pushed hard. A week later game the biggest game in World Cup history, Wales vs England at Twickenham. This time England were the dominant team for the majority of the game, Ben Youngs running Wales ragged and Joe Marler - illegal or not - demolishing the Welsh scrum with glee. Yet even against a Wales team patched together with duct tape and blue-tack they couldn't get over the line. Robshaw could be having nightmares for the next four years about that last penalty decision, two points from that game and they'd still be in the tournament and Wales would be the team likely to be knocked out instead.

However England knew what they had to do against Australia, a win nothing else would do (well a bonus point draw would have sufficed but that was always unlikely). Lancaster again selected Farrell to lead his team, understandable after the kicking display against Wales, however it's the prevailing opinion of many pundits that while Farrell is a ten to make sure you don't lose, Ford is the fly-half who is likely to win you the game. And in the end it was perhaps Farrell that cost England the game. After Ford had come on and England looked on top, bringing the scoreline back within one converted try Australia were on the back foot. England's defence was ferocious, Australia repelled again and again, that was until Farrell showed too much ferocity. Trying to read the pass - through the dummy runners - he got it terribly wrong pile driving into Giteau with debatable effort to use his arms.
Behind him Burgess practically clotheslined Hooper - who actually had the ball - but this was ignored by the officials in the end,  despite in my opinion it being the worse offence. The loss of Farrell (who had shifted to inside centre), leaving just the rookie Burgess to defend the middle of the park meant Australia took control back.

The fact that Burgess was on the field was an unfortunate one, England were hit with tricky injuries as May didn't return after half time, Joseph moving to wing, yet Lancaster decided to disrupt his fly-half axis and move Farrell to centre instead of using the centre on his bench. Perhaps Burgess could have added more to England's attack while they seemed on top. It wasn't the only confusing change, again Ben Youngs was replaced early, when he was having a very good game, replaced by the Saracen Wigglesworth who has never really shown any form at this World Cup, certainly not enough to merit such an early inclusion. Confusing substitutions have defined the Lancaster tenure, flashbacks to Paris last year with Danny Care being taken off far too early, and in this World Cup

Ben Youngs always one of England's best 

Ben Youngs was taken off against Wales early despite him having terrorised the Welsh fringe defence. It's perhaps the big problem for England at this World Cup, the squad depth wasn't there, the replacements didn't offer much impact when they did come on, something that England will aim to build on before Japan in 2019 surely.

The yellow-card wasn't the only reason for England's defeat, the scrum was beaten repeatedly by the Wallabies (something I never thought I'd say), and the ten-twelve axis of Foley and Giteau was just majestic, how neither of them won Man of the Match is beyond me, controlling the game, putting their body on the lines to make ground and both slicing through the white wall on multiple occasions. But the number one reason that Australia dominated the game was Pocock and Hooper, this double openside system has proven its efficiency again and again. I lost count of the number of turnovers and penalties that Pocock won at the breakdown, and the athleticism and sheer disregard for his personal safety of Hooper provided both defensive security and an ability to win the gain-line battle too. Australia didn't notice the "missing" ball carrier that some pundits mention, without a true No. 8, with Scott Fardy doing the donkey work of two players. Australia currently look the strongest team at this World Cup, after South Africa stummbled through the first rounds and New Zealand looked limp against Georgia. Wales have to look out next weekend.

Are Pocock and Hooper going to be the pairing of the World Cup? They've been lethal so far

In the end though the big news is England have become the first host nation to ever exit the World Cup in the pool stages, and the first former-finalist not to make the knock-out stages. As much as the players and coaching staff are hurting, the back-room staff can take solace in the fact that they have produced the greatest World Cup in memory without a shadow of a doubt.

5 Things from the opening weekend

So every pool has played two games and pretty much all of them have been enthralling to watch and have made this arguably the greatest world cup ever. Here are five areas which have been highlighted this weekend.

Minnows refuse to give up

Japan's victory will the story of this World Cup (after one weekend)

It's perhaps the biggest sporting story of the year so far, the small nation of Japan - hosts of the next world cup - defeating the mighty Springboks. There was warning from the outset with Japan leading early on. It all came about because Japan played an intelligent game, refusing to let South Africa bully them around, playing fast ball spreading it around and avoiding contact as much as possible. It was a lesson on how to beat the big teams, and a warning shot across the whole tournament, that the giants who expect to waltz through games will have to pay attention.

Gorgodze was legendary for Georgia

Only a couple of hours earlier Georgia thought they had pulled of the shock of the tournament beating Tonga who were five places ahead of them. Lead by the fearless and determined performance of captain Gorgodze. And they weren't the only ones, Uruguay put up a fight in the opening stages against Wales, taking a 6-0 lead. Also Samoa had to hold back against the United States, who proved just how good they could be if they could get more test experience in their side, in fact it was largely down to goal kicking that provided the 25-16 win for the islanders. USA simply giving away too many penalties and missing a few of their own kicks to contend entirely.

It is excellent to see the Tier 2, Tier 3 nations actually competing for once. For so long it's been a matter of weathering the storm, and focusing on playing each other. Now it seems that they are looking to pull of upsets and change the face of world rugby. It's obvious to be that the governing body, World Rugby, need to get these other nations playing regular matches against the tough opponents, to improve competition at the major tournaments even more.

Over use of the TMO

Rugby has long prided itself on it's use of technology when it comes to making the big decisions, and I've always enjoyed that. However over recent seasons it's become more and more relied upon by the referee's, which has killed the mood and tempo of the game, and bored the fans beyond recognition. At this world cup the average half length has increased to 50 minutes, largely because of referring decisions to the TMO.

And while most of the time it could argue to have been merited, the main problem has been referees making decisions but then shortly before a conversion is to be taken, seeing a new angle on the big screens and halting the kick. Which not only frustrates the fans, but also the players who were preparing for the restart of play, and consigned the fate of that phase of play. 

While some referee's have been accused of over use, there have been two notable performances that deserve credit for how they used the system. Firstly Craig Joubert - let's ignore his tendency to award far too many penalties - who for France's second try trusted his own judgement (and perfect positioning) with the ball being grounded against the bottom of the post. Then there was Wayne Barnes who set a precedent for how the TMO system should be used by all referees. He was in practically constant conversation with his three "assistants" (both touch judges and the TMO), checking for foul play, contentious decisions and other moments of play. It meant the right calls got made quickly and without interrupting play.

All referee's should take a leaf out of Wayne Barnes' book, for TMO referrals

Scrums are working for once

Fiji showed us how to use a scrum, beating England more than once

Scrums have been a constant menace on the game, needing constant re-sets; practically always ending in penalties; and generally boring the pants of fans. There seems to have been a sizeable shift at this World Cup, with plenty of teams looking to use the scrum for what is was designed for, restarting play. The advent of teams actually hooking the ball has lead to it reaching the back sooner and therefore if a team finds themselves going backwards they are actually capable of using the ball instead of giving away a penalty. Meanwhile when they are going forward it allows them to exploit a retreating defensive line, which has lost it's back row, and if they have won a penalty essentially a "free shot" under the advantage law.

It's wonderful to see, and has lead to a much more exciting style of game being played, in reality only the France vs Italy game has this not occurred, this could be down to a combination of two teams who pride themselves on their scrummaging, and Craig Joubert who loves listening to his own whistle.

Crushing injuries

It seems that the injury curse is hanging over this world cup like a gloomy spectre of doom. Wales came into the tournament suffering two major injuries, and having two major players coming back from long term injuries. More worryingly, was the fact that both of those players (Liam Williams & Samson Lee) limped off before the 2nd half against Uruguay, along with second choice loosehead Paul James. That was before Cory Allen picked up a tournament ending injury, creating another back injury in an already bare looking cupboard for the Welsh.

Seeing Huget weeping was tough for everyone, the World Cup will suffer

But they weren't the only ones to suffer, French maverik and lethal finisher Yoann Huget suffered an awful looking injury which has ruled him out for an extended period. England centre Jonathan Joseph is struggling to be fit for the crunch match against Wales this weekend. Ireland's star inside centre Robbie Henshaw missed the opening fixture with a hamstring injury, and South Africa's ramapging back rower Willem Alberts limped out of the game against Japan during the warm up. 

It's awful when you see potential stars of the World Cup suffer injuries, it's so much worse when they are tournament ending ones. We hope all of them a speedy recovery.

Atmosphere

Heading into this World Cup there was a small fear that there could be a lack of atmosphere and support for some games, the likes of Tonga vs Georgia and Samoa vs USA were expected to be pretty dull affairs that those in the stands would fail to get excited for.

Quite the opposite has happened, through a combination of travelling fans from across the globe, and a home crowd wanting to watch the biggest spectacle in the sport, the noise and pandemonium at stadiums has been incredible. Everybody loves and under dog and the scenes in Brighton were insane as thousand of fans backed the Brave Blossoms against the Springboks and turned the stadium into a bouncing crowd of Japanese fans. The same happened again the day after as fans got on board to the big bruising game between America and Samoa with huge hits combined with exciting wide attacking play.

Meanwhile the small stadium in Gloucester - Kingsholm - has backed its infamous atmosphere during Aviva Premiership games for these international fixtures. The Shed has kept its usual clamour despite the Cherry & White's not being on the field. The Georgian fans were loud and passionate in their support of their players. Even the big stadiums that have never hosted rugby before have been able to find atmosphere, it's been an excellent World Cup so far.

One of the best moments was the video showing Irish fans celebrating Japan's win over South Africa, after their victory in Cardiff, shows the excitement isn't just contained to the stadiums:

5 Things from Wales vs Uruguay

So Wales opened their World Cup account with the expected bonus point victory over Uruguay, in a nutshell it was job done. However in reality the eight try victory was a little unconvincing, and a raft of worrying injuries have been added to the already damaged squad. Here's five areas of conversation after the 54-9 victory.

Questionable game-plan

From the out set Wales didn't seem to know how they were supposed to defeat the South Americans. The standard procedure is to keep it tight with strong and constant forward carriers around the break down combined with strong centre running down the ten channel, for at least the first 20 minutes. However Priestland at fly-half seemed to want to initially spread the ball wide instantly, expecting the Uruguayans to just be a walk over, and it cost Wales early only. With the minnows leading 6-0 at a point and seriously frustrating the home side. 

Wales came into the game playing two opensides, so it was assumed Wales would also look to play a fast paced game, winning the breakdown battle quickly and exhausting their opponents, leading to gaps and mis-matches after a few phases. Instead the forwards seemed much more content with a driving maul game plan against a physicially weaker side, and while it proved highly effective with half of their tries coming from a driven lineout and another one dropped my Tipuric over the line, it also seemed to decrease the effectiveness of the Welsh attacking output.

The Welsh mauled proved effective against Uruguay, but it meant Wales didn't show what they were capable of

Injuries had a noticeable impact

Liam Williams suffered another set back

With Liam Williams at fullback Wales had their most dangerous player raring to go after a long lay off with injury, however they lost him within half an hour. Replacement Matthew Morgan didn't see the ball till the second half it seemed, and even then didn't exactly have the impact that was expected of him, potentially down to a flaw in the game-plan with Wales failing to tire Uruguay out. 

Williams wasn't the only issue, an initially powerful scrum dwindled a little with the loss of both Paul James and Samson Lee by the start of the second half, both lists as having "tight calves", which could pose major problems if the injuries are anything more than minor knocks. It could be especially worrying if it causes Samson Lee's previous Achilles injury to flare up.

Morgan has been called up to replace Allen

The biggest worry was seeing Cory Allen limp off with a torn hamstring. I've always questioned his effectiveness, but he showed some good lines of running to always be available to dot the ball down, scoring a hat-trick of tries within the first half. While he did throw a couple of suspect passes, he did seem to be finding his feet internationally. Wales have called up teenager Tyler Morgan this morning, to replace the Cardiff Blues player, who is highly rated by the entire Welsh management. He is a powerful runner, with a very powerful fend and will be a star in the future, but whether he is ready now is a risk that Wales have had to take. The loss of Allen caused a mix-match re-shuffle with Cuthbert playing centre, and scrum-half Lloyd Williams shoe horned into the wing berth, which caused a massive loss of effectiveness in the Welsh backline.

Cuthbert still lacks form

Cuthbert once again failed to impress

Alex Cuthbert has been given the backing of Gatland to rediscover the lethal finishing ability that made him feared across Europe. But after three warm up tests and the first game of the World Cup, he still has only scored one - walk in - try, has failed to have any impact on the gain line battle. Against a semi-professional side like Uruguay he should have scored at least once, and been able to steam roller over the South American back line on multiple occasions. Instead he didn't get a sniff of the try line, and the few moments he decided to offer himself off of his wing he failed to burst the first tackle or make ground, often because he failed to take the ball on at pace. There were also a worrying about of handling errors, at times where Wales looked threatening, and the chance went begging. And on top of all of that defensively he still looked poor at best, on multiple occasions his positioning actually gave Uruguay a two or three man overlap, he has to learn his job is to defend the wide channel and focus on his opposite winger, far too often he steps in leaving acres of space to exploit. Against Uruguay it wasn't punished but against the likes of England's May and Watson on the weekend, Wales could suffer badly. 

Meanwhile on the opposite flank was the young Dragon, Hallam Amos. Who not only scored a wonderful try, but also broke the defensive line again and again, with intelligent angles run from deep. He also provides Wales with a left-footed kicking option which they are missing without Jonathan Davies, he has played fullback so provides a strong aerial combatant. He also provides an element of the unexpected with not much experience he is neither weighed down with previous failures, nor fully understood by opponents.

Amos is the form winger, will Gatland pick him?

The lineout is exquisite

The statistics speak for themselves, 25 lineouts for Wales, 25 lineouts won, and another stolen. Wales backed themselves at the lineout all game, eschewing kicks at goal constantly to favour their lineout. And it paid off with the towering Charteris commanding the air, but he acted as a decoy on numerous occasions too. Wales utilised pretty much all their options at the lineout, with Tipuric being used at the tail half a dozen times with pinpoint throwing from Scott Baldwin, also Warburton and James King offering other options. 

The Welsh lineout was at peak efficiency

If the Welsh lineout can operate at this efficiency again on the weekend, they might have a chance, especially against an England lineout which struggled against Fiji. Wales could use the set piece to their advantage, especially that tail ball. Throwing to the back of line-out ties in the opposition back-row, and provides great attacking ball which will allow the likes of North or Roberts to attack the gainline at full speed without concern of meeting forwards. England are likely to combat this by moving the diminutive Ford out of the front line, and maybe positioning Barritt in that channel or maybe even Mike Brown. Which just leads to a different method of exploitation, but the lineout will be the catalyst of Wales' attack come Saturday.

Priestland doing better

Priesltand looked confident

Four years ago Priestland was the best fly-half at the tournament, but after winning a Grand Slam, he seemed to lose a lot of his confidence and form. It wasn't helped by a disapproving crowd constantly booing him from the stands. As such he was eventually over looked by Gatland for the inform Dan Biggar, who has taken a firm grip of the ten jersey and during the 6 Nations was at the top of his game.

Priestland was given the chance to be in control, and he showed some of the ability that made him Gatland's favourite for so long. Excusing the initial attempt to play wide without "earning the right", he eventually exerted excellent decision making on the game. He was directly responsible for most of the tries scored by the backs, a deft chip started it off, before two tries arising from his exquisite gainline passing ability putting Scott Williams - although the centre did to most of the work - through and the miss-four pass to find Tipuric out wide was simply amazing. 

His goal kicking which has so often been sub-par, was at test quality once again, nailing seven from eight conversions. His kicking out of hand was still a little shaky, with a couple of missed touch-finders from penalties, and some of his "kicks to contest" were too long for any Welsh player to stand any chance of taking the ball. But it is a marked improvement for a player who is potentially playing his last games for Wales.

How is Pool D Looking?

In the final installment of this four part series we look at Pool D, which is full to the brim with 6 Nations teams. Catch our pieces on Pool A, Pool B and Pool C here.

France

They look to becoming into strength at the right time, after four years of pretty poor performance that was inconsistent at best, among hundreds of changes to teams, and dozens of half-back pairings. France look they might have found some stability and decided who is their first team, just in time for the biggest tournament. 

The biggest thing for French fans is seeing their scrum back on top, traditionally it has always been a fearsome weapon by which the French strangled and battered opponents into submission before unleashing a creative backline. However in recent years it has lacked power, this hasn't been helped
by Saint-Andre refusing to play the legendary Nicolas Mas at tighthead who is feared the world over. Since his reinstatement though France at back to nearer their best, especially against England who themselves are famed for their scrum. Waiting on the bench is the gigantic Atonio with his customised shirt, while at loose-head they have the option of Debaty who provides even more power in the scrum or Ben Arous who is more akin to an openside flanker with his movement around the park. In the second row - a sparse area considering the state of the club game - they seem to have found some form, with Pascal Pape and Maestri providing a lot of size.

In the backrow France possess some major players, obviously the captain Dusautoir is heroic in defence, and towering in the lineout. The other decision is difficult to decide, with Le Roux, Nyagna and Ouedrago offering multiple options each with their own distinct game-style in combination with Dusuatoir. At No. 8 there is the decision between Chouly, who provides ferocious ball carrying, edging over the gainline by painful inches, or the more dynamic Picamoles who offers a bit more speed and wider ball carrying.

Dusautoir is a tackle deamon, and an inspirational leader

The French backline always has and probably always will start with their scrum half, unlike most sides the scrum half is the one who dictates the game, controls the tempo and makes the decisions. As such it's likely the highly experienced and quality goal kicker of Morgan Parra will start the big games, and who can blame them, as France look a different team with him behind the pack. At fly-half it's as open as it has been over the last four years, neither of the two fly-half's who played during the 6 Nations are in the squad, which leaves it wide open for the maverick Michalak, or the slightly
more dependable Tales. The centre partnership seems formed a ying-yang partnership of the wizardry of Fofana and the bull-like stature of Bastareaud, although the free-running Gael Fickou could prove a useful impact substitute able to work wonders against a tired defence. In the back three, Yoann Huget is an incredibly dangerous winger, combining surprising strength, excellent footwork and just enough French madness he will score plenty of tries. At fullback the South African born Scott Spedding is favourite, offering level headedness within a infamously maverick side, and a monster boot which can on occasion knock over 50+ yard kicks at goal.

France stand a good chance at topping this pool, although will have to turn the tables on Ireland who they haven't beaten in a long while. Finishing second in the pool is likely to have them face New Zealand in the knockouts, at the Millennium Stadium, which could have the All Blacks reliving the nightmare of eight years ago.

Star Player: Thierry Dusautoir
Player to Watch: Gael Fickou

Ireland

At the start of the year Ireland seemed to be the best team in the World, capable of beating anyone but starving them of territory and possession and dictating the tempo of the game. However during the 6 Nations they struggled a little to get their game working, especially against a ferocious Welsh defence, but more noticeably in the warm up tests they weren't at their best. Yes they walked all over Wales in Cardiff, but the following fixture they were outplayed for much of the game and their driving maul game was beaten. And then going to Twickenham they looked rather lethargic in the first half, unable to retain possession, and being battered by a strong English pack up front.

It's not all doom and gloom though, they still are the best team in Pool D, and they have probably the strongest strength in depth of any team at the World Cup, with at least two players who can slot into any position without any lack of talent. Up front Healy, Best and Ross form a powerful and athletic first choice, but with the likes of sprinter Cronin, Jack McGrath and freshly inducted Nathan White. In the second row, there is the legendary Paul O'Connell, a giant of the game for many years. He is responsible for dragging Ireland over the finish line in games, when the flow of the game is going away from them he will dragging his fellow green shirted men back in to the match. Hard nosed and likely to play almost every game it's a question as to who will play alongside him, Devin Toner has been Schmidt's preferred choice in recent years with his towering height offering greater strength in the lineout, while the form choice would be Iain Henderson who is athletic and powerful in open play.

One last run for Ireland's greatest warrior O'Connell

The back row has recently become a source of incredible strength for the Irish, with vice-captain and Lion Jamie Heaslip and No. 8 they have a rock at the back of the scrum, who provides a smart rugby brain, even if he is often lacking in the short range carries around the breakdown. That instead comes from the "Tullow Tank", the rampaging Sean O'Brien who has been busting the gainline for years, and is back from injury with full fitness just in time for the World Cup. On the opposite flank it is likely to be Peter O'Mahony who has become a nightmare to deal with at the breakdown, capable of clamping like a limpet on to any unsupported ball carriers and winning Ireland multiple penalties.

The backline since Schmidt's introduction hasn't been the most extravagant line up, designed much more to retain possession than to score tries, but then again it has been working. The half back

Robbie Henshaw is a rock in defence
and strong in attack.

partnership of Murray and Sexton is probably the best in the northern hemisphere and would push the All Black duo too, both expert kickers both for retain possession and clearing their lines. Sexton also provides an ability to create overlaps with his infamous looping runs, which surprisingly still catches opponents out. In the centres they have young revelation Robbie Henshaw who could be a major player for any success that Ireland have at this tournament, outside him there is no stand-out performer, Jared Payne adds another "fullback" to the backline which allows Ireland to run their kicking game even better, while there is also Darren Cave who has had a good season or elusive runners Fitzgerald and Earls who are more accustom to the wing. 

Speaking of the wings all of them are imperious in the air, with their Gaelic football skills. Tommy Bowe is a fan favourite, but has lost a little bit of what made him a test Lion, Zebo provides excitement and flair which could light up the game and move away from the "dull" gameplan if needed. Then there is Dave Kearney who was majestic in the air during the warm-up tests. There are multiple options for Schmidt to choose from, and it might be a case of picking dependant on the opponents, something the Kiwi coach is a master at. At fullback it is all but certain to be the quality Rob Kearney, imperious in the air, lethal in attack and with a cannon of a left boot.

Ireland have a nice build up of fixtures, with their crunch match coming in the final game of the pool against France, so they could still be in a building phase at the beginning of the tournament, which could give them the stamina and game time to be ready for the important matches.

Star Player: Jonny Sexton

Player to Watch: Iain Henderson

Italy

It's been a long build up for the Italians to the world cup, it started with the players going on strike to training over a dispute with payment and kit deals. Eventually it was resolved and they begun training. The warm up games did not go well however, with zero from three, including an incredibly heavy defeat to Scotland in Edinburgh. They were back to their frustrating best against Wales, but didn't exactly look dangerous more just annoying to play against. 

There is some hope with the Italians, the scrum looks as powerful as always Castro being a dependable rock on the tight head and the rest of the veteran front row at their best too. In the back row there is the talismanic Sergio Parisse who every other team in the world wants in their scrum. And they have multiple options for the flankers with Zanni, Minto and Favaro all in contention.

Parisse is crucial to Italian hopes, they'll want to keep him fit all tournament

In the backline they still are lacking a confident fly-half, but Eduardo Gorri has started to come through at scrum-half. In the centres Campagnaro had a very impressive 6 Nations in 2014, but has managed to push on and really come good in the last year, while on the wings Italy possess some very impressive wingers. With Venditti and Benvenuti both having impressive outings in previous games. At fullback is the quietly impressive Andrea Masi who has plenty of experience and is incredibly committed in every match.

It's unlikely that Italy will progress to the knock-outs, having to beat one of Ireland or France to go through, but they have done it in the past so don't rule them out entirely.

Star Player: Sergio Parisse

Player to Watch: Michele Campagnaro

Canada

Canada are another team like the USA, they have a few big names in their squad but not enough to make them serious contenders. They have the giant Jamie Cudmore who is well loved at Clermont, then there is captain Tyler Ardron and flying winger Jeff Hassler who both play for the Ospreys. 

Hassler was top class last season for the Ospreys

Despite these names they had a very poor showing at the Pacific Nations Cup, not winning a single game, although they did come close against Samoa and the United States. It's highly unlikely that they will win more than one game at this world cup, so in reality they should be targeting beating Romania and possibly scaring the Italians, but France and Ireland are out of their reach.

Star Player: Jamie Cudmore

Player to Watch: Jeff Hassler

Romania

The whipping boys of Pool D, world cup regulars, but never really worry anybody. They might stand a chance against Canada but without any big names I can't see it happening.

Predicted Final Standings

Ireland

France

Italy

Canada

Romania

How is Pool C Looking?

The third installment of our look at the teams in each pool, study's pool C, with current champions New Zealand. Catch Pool A and Pool B here.

New Zealand

Firm favourites for not only the pool but the entire tournament, in four years they have lost just three games. Over that time they are a better team - by far - than the one that won the Webb Ellis trophy. The backline has much more talent in it than before, especially out on the wings, and up front they have one of the greatest open play packs in the world. There is not much to say about this team in reality, we all know what they are going to do, and they come into the tournament with the most experienced team, showing they know what it takes to win.

Dane Coles could have a starring role in the World Cup

The legendary Richie McCaw will once again take charge, attempting to become the first person to lift the trophy twice, he is Terminator like in his tenacity to just keep going and drag his team over the line. Kieran Read is the best No. 8 in the world with strong ball carrying and the deftest hands allowing him to unleash players around him, and at blindside they have a multitude of enforcers available. The locks are dynamic, and in Brodie Retallick they possess last years player of the year, and then they have reserves which can fill the void with an aplomb. In the front row New Zealand do not possess the most fearsome scrum it's never been known to win plenty of penalties or drive the opponent backwards, but neither has it been unreliable or prone to total collapse. They do however have a nice collection of hookers which could prove an interesting change to the standard system, especially first choice Dane Coles who is as fast as some centres in the world.

The backline is where this All Black side becomes truly exciting though, especially with the return of Dan Carter back to the infamous shirt, and back to his best. He has struggled with injuries a plenty over the last four years (and before), and as such struggled to show what made him the greatest fly-half of all time. However during this season he has rediscovered most of that, especially in that final test against Australia he showed his ability to make a break, create a hole and expertly run a game. Plus his goal kicking is a peerless as ever. Inside him is the best scrum-half in the world at the moment in Aaron Smith, who's kicking game is practically perfect and he dictates the tempo of the game better than anyone. New Zealand are without a doubt in possession of the best half-back pairing at this World Cup. Waiting in the wings is even more talent with the likes of free-running Beauden Barrett, Super XV winner Sopoaga, and try-scoring TJ Perenara at scrum half.

Dan Carter was at his best against Australia, can he sustain it all World Cup?

Nonu and Smith have played together all season

In the centre's they have even more talent, four players have to go into two. All four would waltz into any other team in the world, yet here the unbelievably skillful Sonny Bill Williams is stuck behind the barnstorming completely talented Ma'a Nonu. And then young powerful upstart, Fekitoa is behind the oozing class of Conrad Smith. Nonu and Smith are the first choice, and will probably start against Argentina (the only tough game of the pool), and avoiding injuries all of the knockout games too. They are the most experienced centre partnership in history, they understand each other telepathically it seems, and neither have any weaknesses in their game after years at the top. Meanwhile Williams and Fekitoa are the more exciting players, able to pull of the magnificent and set up (or score) wonder tries, which could be exploited during the lesser games in the pool stage when New Zealand want to show everything they are capable of.

Milner-Skudder

Lastly it's the back three, interestingly according to official squads they don't have a fullback in their squad. However it is likely that the excellent Ben Smith will wear the 15 shirt, he has long been a quality performer, able to set up and finish off chances. On the left wing it's all but guaranteed that Julian Savea will start, without a doubt the best winger in the world, capable of sub-11 second 100m sprints, is almost impossible to stop especially close to the try line, and one of the best wingers defensively around. And that's before you even discuss his try scoring record. Right-wing however poses an interesting question, after the Super XV season it seemed Waisake Naholo looked certain, he was a lethal finisher possessing strength, speed and skill. However after a fantastic début, he suffered a heartbreaking leg break, expected to be out until December, he somehow (apparently using a witch doctor in his native Fiji) will be fit to take part in the World Cup. Although Fijian medicine isn't quite good enough for him to be fit for the start, so it seems Milner-Skudder will be able to continue to show his mesmerising skills for now. He is without a doubt the most thrilling player at this world cup, with dazzling footwork, crafty kicking, electrifying pace and offloading skills which at times are audacious. 

In short New Zealand have probably the strongest backline at the World Cup, and the most talented loose-five in the scrum, all they need is to keep Carter free from injury and avoid crumbling at the scrum.

Star Player: Richie McCaw

Player to Watch: Nehe Milner-Skudder

Argentina

Argentina are a mixed bag, I mean they will clearly get out of the pool, other than the mighty All Blacks they wont be concerned about playing any of the other teams, Tonga could frustrate but nothing beyond that. However the Puma's form has been inconsistent over the last few years, they pull off a big name win: beating Wales in Cardiff, or South Africa in Durban, and Australia at home. Yet they then never back it up, with a consistent performance, for example they then lost to South Africa a week later back in Argentina. They have shown they have the ability to tumble with the big boys, including the Southern Hemisphere giants, but not consistently. 

Argentina have always been proud of their forward pack, especially their driving maul, and who can blame them it's always been a fearsome weapon. They used it to terrifying affect against New Zealand in the opening round of the Rugby Championship, scoring twice. The front row has passionate captain Creevy and feared scrummager Ayerza, and their back row is also of the highest order with Fernandez Lobbe and Leguizmon the heroes of many previous Argentinian victories, but also the youthful Isa and Senatore who provide strong ball carrying all over the park. It's a strong pack on the whole, but could be weakened if injuries creepy in.

Agustin Creevy is the definition of a talisman for Argentina, leading from the front

Agulla to star?

In the backline Argentina don't exactly possess internationally feared players, but the skill is there. They can put together a backline which plays on a regular basis at the top level. Fly-half Nicolas Sanchez has proven a steady hand to guide the team around the park, and his kicking ability could be a key component in any success this team has. Alternatively there is the maverick Juan Martin Hernandez who is highly rated world-wide for his gameplay and ability to make something happen, able to play both ten and fifteen. But the really exciting area is Argentina's back three, with the likes of Amorosino, Tucelet and Agulla they have pace to burn and an innate ability to beat a man, which could see them scoring some delicious tries, and they are even missing Montero, their answer to Savea.

Star Player: Augstin Creevy

Player to Watch: Tomas Cubelli

Tonga

They are the weakest of the three Pacific Island nations, and don't look like they will qualify from the pool, they have the ability to win games against a bigger team, they beat Scotland not that long ago, and France last world cup. But I think Argentina is a step too far, although there are likely to come third and qualify for the next world relatively comfortably.

Vainikolo in action during the Pacific Nations Cup

Tonga are famous for a very physical game, hard ball carrying around the fringes, looking to suck in the opponents around the breakdown and make space out wide for their powerful wingers. Against the bigger nations this is harder to achieve, who possess a strong pack and breakdown defence. Like any other South Sea team they are incredibly skilled at open-play turnover attacking, so it's something that they will have to try and unleash when they can. 

Star Player: Fetu'u Vainikolo

Player to Watch: Siale Piutau

Georgia

A constant presence in the World Cup, Georgia have started to become a solid team. With a few players - particularlly forwards - playing for the big French clubs, they do possess a strong set piece, and with the powerful Kubriashvili and Zirakashvili in the front row, they are more than capable of causing trouble for weaker packs, even New Zealand could struggle against these two master operators.

Gorgodze is a man mountain for Toulon

Mamuka Gorgodze is a well respected player globally, a fearsome tackler and a strong ball carrier which gives Georgia plenty of security and go forward, although he is occasionally attempting to be a one man army, and is frustrated by the lack of quality in his fellow players. Sadly the backline likes any major talent, although young scrum-half Lobzhanidze is gaining plenty of plaudits from coaches, helping the Georgian Under 20's to win the World Trophy.

Star Player: Mamuka Gorgodze

Player to Watch: Vasil Lobzhanidze

Namibia

Another team that seems to be ever present in the World Cup in the modern era, although they did have to fight for it this year, against a spirited Madagascar side. They never look a threat during the World Cup however, but they do always go down fighting often looking to rack up some sort of points on the scoreboard, most famously with three drop goals in four minutes against Fiji four years ago. Most of their combativeness comes from fearsome tackler Jacques Burger, a fan favourite at Saracens, who's bravery in the face of defeat constantly gets him plaudits even in a losing side.

Star Player: Jacques Burger

Burger is famed for his tackle ferocity, how big a difference will it make in this pool?

Predicted Final Standings

New Zealand

Argentina

Tonga

Georgia

Namibia