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

How is Pool B Looking?

Second post in the series looking at each team in each pool of the World Cup - catch Pool A here.
This time it's Pool B, it's not exactly looking like a strong pool. South Africa look best but stumbled a fair amount during the Rugby Championship, meanwhile Scotland are faltering as they always have. Meanwhile Samoa will be competing fiercely for that quarter-final spot too.

South Africa

All but certain to qualify for the quarter finals, probably without really breaking a sweat. They're coming into the tournament with a couple of big names returning from injuries, and in the meantime they've built considerable strength in depth, none more so than at centre. With world class captain Jean De Villiers returning, they have since found the perfect partner to him at inside centre with Damian De Allende, who has been putting in continued man of the match performances over the last year for both club and country. Jessie Kriel however has proven to be a real find, even if he's more used to playing fullback, at outside centre. His lines of running could prove the difference in multiple games, able to spot even a tiny gap, and then through a combination of speed and strength burst through the line. As he proved against the current greatest centre partnership Nonu and Smith against New Zealand during the summer. Looking at the rest of the backline, Willie Le Roux provides the X-Factor to the side, able to produce from nothing, and also provide good support lines to score himself. Out wide the 'Boks possess plenty of talented wingers to make use of the excellent creators in the side.

De Allende and Kriel combined to lethal efficiency during the Rugby Championship

Pollard

At half-back, Ruan Pienaar is currently in the drivers seat at scrum-half, but veteran and world-class Du Preez is also in the squad, so they really don't lack talent or experience, which is helpful considering the two first choice fly-half's both possess a lack there of. Pollard is my preferred pick at 10, the total player able to run, see the gap, kick skilfully, kind of reminds me of a young Dan Carter, but has been prone to lapses in decision making which could lead to Coach Meyer selecting the more calm and steady Pat Lambie to run the game. Also available is Morne Steyn, another perhaps past his best, but unparalleled in the squad for being able to control a game, and defend a small lead, which could be crucial in the knock-out stages. 

Up front South Africa are looking as strong as ever. The front row is infamously powerful and with no injuries is bound to dominate up front during the pool stages, and against almost ever team at the World Cup too. The locks contain the apparently immortal Matfield and the new enforcer in Etzebeth, who still rule the lineout like the South Africa of tradition. In the back row the first choice is one again available for selection with the hulking bear shape of Dwyane Vermeulen back at No. 8, alonside Willem Alberts providing another huge ball carrier, and the Bath based Francois Louw at openside. Louw is a highly under-rated player, looked over by most pundits especially at the breakdown, where he is one of the best operators in the Aviva Premiership, and with his strength up there with the Pococks and McCaw's of the world.

Star Player: Dwayne Vermeulen

Player to Watch: Jesse Kriel

Samoa

Samoa are another wild-card akin to Fiji in Pool A, possessing the same 7's like ability to throw the ball around, although they are more akin to try and break their opponent as they are to run around them. They are a behemoth of a team, who is willing to fling their bodies about with reckless abandon. With a vast majority of their players playing in big leagues now, they also have the skill set and the fitness to last at the top level. With the likes of Kahn Fotuali'i and the Pisi brothers outwide, plus the newly Samoan (formerly New Zealand 7's) Nanai-Williams, they have the skill to unlock defences. While upfront they have a rock at tight head which should provide them some set-piece platform, although maybe not against the South Africans, plus also the bullocking Sanele Tuilagi who was running through people for fun during the Pacific Nation Cup. 

They don't possess a world-class goal kicker, which could haunt them against Scotland, as they try to fight their way into the knock-out stages, especially since Scotland are no longer weak in the contact area so Samoa could struggle to make in roads with their generic smashing game-plan.

Star Player: George Pisi

Player to Watch: Tim Nanai-Williams

Nanai-Williams has switched allegiance, could he be what Samoa need to get out of the pool?

Japan

One of two outsiders for this pool, but not as much as they would have been last World Cup. In previous years Japan have showed glimpses of what they are capable of, especially if they can get their wingers in a little bit of space, because they possess some incredible speed which can cut teams apart. However they always struggled at the set piece, specifically the scrum, they never seemed to have the bulk to really compete on an international stage. However over the last four years they seem to have found some truly strong players, maybe they converted some less than successful Sumo wrestlers into props, and have actually started using their scrum as a weapon against the lesser nations. 

While Japan are unlikely to cause the Springboks any serious concerns, they stand a good chance against the USA, and could even scare Samoa and Scotland if they have a bad day. They will have to play seriously well to make the knock-out stages, but they could steal a third place finish. Even if they don't need to qualify for the next world cup.

Scotland

The Scots are looking forward to this World Cup with some hope, they had an amazing series of tests last autumn, before suffering a cataclysmic failing during the 6 Nations, including a routing by Ireland, at Murrayfield. However the warm-up games have gone well, they ran Ireland close in Dublin, completed a double against Italy and almost stole a win in Paris (they could have easily claimed a draw). The set piece is looking stable and the backs are scoring tries, and they have some good looking strength in depth.

The pack while not fearsome possesses some talent, the Gray brothers especially in the second row, and David Denton who is back to his best running around the park and having serious effect on the gainline battle. They have also added the Glasgow No. 8 Josh Strauss to the squad who has been effective for them for years, before qualifying for Scotland on residency. In the front row however they are lacking any major players, and it could end up hurting them, especially against the juggernaut that is the South African scrum.

Meanwhile the backline lead by the brilliant Finn Russell is based of the PRO12 champions Glasgow patterns, seeing as so many of them play under Townsend. Stuart Hogg provides a bit of excitement with his pace, strength and nuclear missile of a left boot - he reminds me of former Lion Lee Byrne in his style of play, although perhaps a little faster. In the centre's they are painfully without Alex Dunbar who was both a rock in defence, and a dangerous attacker too. Instead they will likely go with the combination of Bennett and Scott who aren't the strongest defensively but like to play with width in attack, there is also the consideration of former flanker Richie Vernon who is in a similar mould to the missing Dunbar. At wing Tim Visser seems to have finally found his feet on the international stage, alongside other quality players like Sean Maitland, interception master Tommy Seymour, and the stalwart Sean Lamont.

Can Visser show is try scoring ability at the World Cup?

There is still one major decision that has to be made by Coach Cotter, and that is who plays at scrum half, squad captain Greig Laidlaw logically is in possession of the shirt, however Edinburgh half-back Hidalgo-Clyne has been playing far better than the captain all season. While he may lack test experience which could be needed for the tighter games, there is no doubt that he plays at a much higher tempo and is much sparkier around the fringes which could give Scotland an edge in the crunch match against Samoa.

Star Player: Stuart Hogg

Player to Watch:  Sam Hidalgo-Clyne

USA

Arguably the weakest team of the pool and most likely to end up at the bottom, which is a shame as the sport is just starting to find its feet "across the pond". They do at least have some big names in their roster, but it is more a matter of a sprinkling of talent rather than an underlying basis of good players to provide competition against the bigger teams. 

Manoa has been a revelation, can he do it for the USA?

In the pack they'll be looking to the aggressive mountain of Samu Manoa - freshly signed for Toulon - to provide the basis of their go-forward and lineout security. Meanwhile the remaining top flight players are sitting out wide in America's back three. Saracen's Christian Wyles rarely has a bad game in the Premiership can he light up the field for the Eagles? Then there is Blaine Scully of Leciester Tigers, and also can't forget Takudzwa Ngwenya who so memorably embarrassed Bryan Habana eight years ago by out sprinting him to the try line.

The surprise package is the relatively unheard of AJ MacGinty, previously based in Ireland, he has found his feet in the US and has shown some talent with good decision making and a nifty boot too. He might just give the American's some control and direction around the pitch and set up some tries.

Star Player: Samu Manoa

Player to Watch: AJ MacGinty

Predicted Final Standings

South Africa

Scotland

Samoa

Japan

USA

How is Pool A Looking?

The first of our posts looking at each individual World Cup Pool, and each team and their chances at the tournament. First up Pool A - the Pool of Death.

Australia

They come into the tournament as winners of the Rugby Championship, although it was a shortened tournament so not as brilliant as it could have been. While they didn't win emphatically in any of the games, they did figure out how to win, coming from behind against South Africa and brilliantly taking out New Zealand. Against Argentina, they did rack up the four tries but not until the last ten minutes. However after a ground-breaking win against the All Blacks, in which the double open-side system worked with lethal efficiency, they went to Eden Park and got ripped apart by a vengeful All Black side lead by Carter and McCaw.

Australia are looking like the strongest team in this pool, but that last big game could raise suspicions. Primarily among their improvements is the discovery of a capable scrum, so long the Achilles heel of the Wallabies. Add in the lumbering giant of Will Skelton and two of the best No. 7's in the world the Australian pack is maybe the strongest in the pool. Out in the backs, Tevita Kuridrani is a dangerous runner, with immense power and intelligent running lines. Then there is Israel Folau arguably the best fullback in the world, his pace and footwork are capable of unlocking defence's at will, he is also imperious in the air which could frustrate both England and Wales who like to use their kicking game a lot.

The big concern is at play-maker for Australia, they still haven't decided who they want a 9, 10 and 12. Nick White the hero who won the game against New Zealand is not included in the squad at all, leaving Phipps and Genia to fight for the shirt and find some form. Coach Cheika seems to prefer the Cooper-Giteau axis, although is hadn't found much success, moving Australia far too laterally, meanwhile Matt Toomua has offered control and direction from the bench. Cooper can provide moments of majestic wonder, however he is lacking in control and goal kicking which could bite them in the arse against England and even Wales.

Star Player: Israel Folau
Player to Watch: Henry Speight

England

Were utterly awful one week, next week they were totally fantastic against Ireland. I think the game in Paris can be put down to first team players being rusty, and the French pack being ferocious, something that is less likely to happen in this pool. With England possessing the more fearsome scrum in terms of power, although finesse is something that is lacking. The front row is looking pretty settled with Marler, Youngs and Cole, and with enough competition on the bench to keep them on top form. Although Youngs' lineout ability could be called into questions by the likes of the tall Luke Charteris who reeked havoc against Ireland in the 6 Nations. That can perhaps been remedeed by playing fellow Tiger, Parling in the second row, but it does break up the athletic, dyanmic, paring of Launchbury and Lawes. The competition for places continues into the backrow, Robshaw has the shirt even if he could be outclassed by the likes of Warburton, Hooper, Pocock and Tipuric. At blind-side, Wood vs Haskall will be interesting, Wood offering more in the lineout, and a No. 8 Vunipola vs Morgan will be argued till kick off, Morgan coming back from injury has looked strong while Vunipola has looked less like his former self after a summer of fitness training and slimming down.

The backline finally looks like it's coming good, the back-three of Brown, Watson and May are at peak performance. Brown having come back form his concussion problems to bring solidity at the back, and Anthony Watson with his footwork is a quality finisher which is something that England have been missing. But May is the real star at the moment, he's finally started trusting his insane pace instead of constantly side-stepping inside, and his previous defensive frailties have disappeared almost entirely. In the centre of the park Lancaster seems to know exactly who he wants to play, but they don't have much game time together which could cause some issues, but both Barritt and Joseph are top quality players in defence and attacking respectively. Then there is Sam Burgess waiting in the wings with his imposing presence and mental determination to win, or the classy playmaker Slade.

The halfbacks, while not as shakey as Australia, aren't looking at their best. George Ford has struggled at times during the warm up, unable to run his clever attacking game with his pack struggling, and Ben Youngs isn't exactly lighting up the game. Although to be fair the Youngs he isn't making any mistakes either, that sort of dependability will be crucial. Owen Farrell is apparently pushing hard to reclaim the 10 shirt, and it could be an intelligent decision with his control. And that's without mentioning home advantage of playing at Twickenham.

Star Player: Jonny May

Player to Watch: Henry Slade

Wales

It looked so promising for Wales after playing in Dublin, and then one week later it looks pretty unlikely (to say the least) that Wales will get out of the pool. Missing the terrifying Leigh Halfpenny, and the top scrum half Rhys Webb, Wales are looking sparse in talent. The attacking Liam Williams is still coming back from injury, but could offer Wales a totally different dynamic that could surprise a few teams. Dan Biggar could greatly miss his long term team-mate Webb inside him with the inexperienced Gareth Davies likely to take the shirt. 

Hopefully the poor performance against Italy was mostly due to the players in shock and not being able to focus after the departure of Webb (and eventually Halfpenny). If Wales are to perform at peak ability, they need their pack to function but more importantly they need Jamie Roberts to be at his physical best. If Roberts is able to get over the gainline Wales play much better, especially with the glide running Scott Williams playing outside him. North is slowly refinding the form which made him feared globally, but on the opposite wing Alex Cuthbert can't seem to find the thing that made him a test Lion and in defence against the likes of Folau and May will be more than a liability. 

In the pack, the scrum has looked like an issue, Samson Lee's return to fitness could not be any more crucial, test rookie Francis has done well but struggles later on in the game. The lock's is an interesting battle, with so many options, Alun Wyn Jones is certain to start, alongside him Charteris provides athleticism and line-out brilliance, while Bradley Davies adds extra weight and ball carrying ability. The back row is the toughest battle, four has to go into three, Tipuric has been Wales' greatest player in the three warm up matches but could still struggle to make it into the side for the big matches. 

Wales have got to play at their best, while missing three of their biggest players, to stand any chance of over turning one of Australia or England. Dan Biggar's kicking covers the missing Halfpenny, although at a reduced range, but that could be a blessing in disguise. Wales will now be forced to kick to touch from penalities around halfway, which could potentially see them scoring more tries than in recent memory.

Star Player: Jamie Roberts

Player to Watch: Hallam Amos

Fiji

The danger team of the pool, Fiji stand a good chance of stealing a win against one of the "big three", and therefore deciding the pool. They are unlikely to perform well enough in all games to progress to the knockout stages, but they will give potentially all of the above teams a scare. The backlline is their biggest strength, the likes of Nadolo and Goneva can burst through defences and set up some wonder tries. And their forwards aren't exactly worried to get their hands on the ball and take part in what is essentially a 7's game played with 15 players.

The age old problem for Fiji is their set-piece, unable to consistently retain possession at the scrum and lineouts means that they could struggle to keep a hold on games, or any lead they might produce. It's where the big three will look to twist the screws, but simply keeping possession and playing a calm again, not allow it to break up into the sort of game Fiji want to take part it.

Star Player: Nemani Nadolo

Player to Watch: Leone Nakarawa

Uruguay

Let's face it the South American's are going to be the whipping boys of this pool, they're looking at a heavy points difference in every single game. Especially since all of the teams will be looking to get those extra points in case the final decision for who qualifies comes down to points difference. They'll probably will set themselves some goals and targets along the lines of not being left with no points on the board in any game, or trying not to break the record for most points conceded in a World Cup tournament. Both of which will be very very difficult to accomplish. 

Predicted Final Standings

England

Australia

Wales

Fiji

Uruguay

Poor Wales double punched by injuries

Wales went into their final warm up game, against Italy, riding a wave. They'd just defeated Ireland on their own turf, the final squad had been named and it looked incredibly strong, and the two big injuries had made big leaps forward towards being fit for the tournament. A near full strength side had been named, Gatland giving his big name players a chance to get more game time and really fire before the World Cup started. The game started poorly and got worse.

Williams was by far the star man against Italy

The opening minutes had Wales controlling position and making good in roads in Italian territory, that was until out of form Cuthbert pushed too hard, and Parisse intercepted. Brought down by man of the match Scott Williams, Italy still managed to score from the ensuing ruck, although how Dan Biggar did not win a penalty is beyond me. It set the home team back a bit, but they worked their way back, Scott Williams yet again the catalyst. Italy kicked clear, Scott Williams returned it, stepping outside his opposite number and running into space. The chance was squandered by Sam Warburton out-wide however, one of multiple chances that went begging for the Welsh. It is something that they are going to have to work on if they have any hope of escaping the Pool of Death. Eventually they did take the opportunity after a few more phases, Williams yet again creating it, with a perfect flat miss pass to put George North in with not a single blue shirt near him.

Webb in agony after damaging his ankle

Just as Wales were looking in control and able to exert their game on the Italians, tragedy struck as Rhys Webb was crushed under the weight of other players, before being stretchered off in extreme
pain and on oxygen. Silence struck the stadium. The effect on the players was obvious from the kick off as the normally faultless Faletau spilled the ball, and the problems spread. Wales looked devoid of intent, not one player seemed to still have their head in the game, and the gameplan went out the window. In the end the game was still flat when the unimaginable happened for the second time in the game. When Halfpenny - in the process of attempting to collect a kick - twinged his knee which at the time looked innocuous. Once again Wales were left reeling as, perhaps, their biggest name was once again stretchered off the pitch.

Some - myself included - was questioning what Halfpenny was doing on the pitch with 10 minutes left. Gatland has always chosen to win a game over giving players a chance, but with a World Cup looming and wild-card Matthew Morgan sitting on the bench waiting to get more test match experience. I feel that Morgan should have been given at least 20 minutes to prove his ability - not including the brief blood sub cameo - instead he got 10 minutes at the end of the game when no one else wanted to be playing. He did provide a brief moment of excitement for the crowd, akin to when Shane Williams was playing in the Welsh jersey. I really hope that he gets game time during the World Cup, especially now Wales may have to consider a new game plan, having an exciting try anything player could give them an extra dimension. Against Uruguay - Wales' first game - he could easily set up three or four tries against the semi-pro team. Especially with Liam Williams still regaining fitness, it might be an idea to bring him on from the bench, rather than start him fresh.

Talismanic Halfpenny after collapsing his knee, his goal kicking threat will be sorely missed

While discussing Liam Williams, especially now Halfpenny is missing the tournament, it's a certainty that he will own the 15 shirt for the big games in the pool. Which means the wing slot that Williams would have taken initially is wide open. Based on the previous years with Gatland it's pretty clear that

Cuthbert not living up to form

Alex Cuthbert is in the pole position, however his performances over the last year have been mediocre at best. His defensive issues have always been well documented, but recently they seem to have been fully understood my the opposition too, which means he's been caught out on multiple occasions and against an Australian side with infamous lethality out wide, and an England team who's wingers have found perhaps the form of their life. It could spell disaster for Wales' World Cup hopes, especially considering that last weekend he couldn't even seem to make a tackle on a static Parisse. To be fair to the large winger, he has traditionally always been rated on his attacking ability, with good reason. He had a try scoring record which any international winger would have been proud of, he provided clinical finishing and a powerful drive which Wales used to great effect. However despite scoring against Ireland, his tries have dried up to almost zero, he seems unable to get over the gainline any more, and spends most of the time absent on the wing. In fact the one time he was spotted in mid-field against Italy who threw the pass which was intercepted.

Hallam Amos is a proven finisher

With all that considered, surely it's time for Gatland to give the other wingers in the squad a chance on the big stage. Freshly called up Eli Walker provides electrifying pace which does seem to lack in the side, as well as a side-step which seems to be able to move him 5 meters laterally with little effort, not to mention an acrobatic finishing ability akin to the legendary Shane Williams. Although considering he was dropped from the initial 31-man party, perhaps Hallam Amos stands a better chance of stealing the 14 shirt from Cuthbert. Amos has also shown an incredible finishing ability over the last season, certainly proving more effective at wing than the fullback slot he was given against Ireland. He also provides a reliable left footed kicking option that has been lost to the side due to Jonathan Davies' absence, and a defensive ability leagues ahead of Cuthbert (as proven by his ability to play fullback). Not to mention the fact he has a central contract implies that Gatland and Co. believe he is a star in the making, and who can blame them with the rumours being he is capable of matching George North in the gym. It is his kicking ability that interests me the most, he brings a different dimension to the Welsh wing with his willingness to kick the ball in behind the opposition and pressure the fullback.

The loss of Rhys Webb could be felt more keenly than Halfpenny, with Biggar providing equal kicking prowess and Liam Williams able to slot in at fullback. Webb was arguably  the inform player in Europe, sitting in the same bracket as All Black Aaron Smith, and could have been one to really light up the tournament. Plus the link between he and Biggar was instinctive, both trusted each other entirely, and that ability to know exactly what the other is thinking meant they ran the game incredibly well. Not to mention his try scoring ability which could be greatly missed. Wales have replacements but none exactly in the same bracket. Mike Phillips has been recalled and could happily slot in for the big games, it's well known what he can do, but perhaps his lack of speed at the breakdown could lead to Gatland looking elsewhere. So that leaves either Gareth Davies and Lloyd Williams. Davies brings the snappy, eye for a gap, try scorer element of Webb; while Williams certainly looks the fastest at the breakdown and with Wales wanting to test their fitness against their opponents that increased tempo of game could give the Blues' player the nod.

Who will win the battle for the 9 shirt, after Webb has been ruled out?

The rest of the Welsh team practically picks itself, especially with the news that Samson Lee and Alun Wyn Jones are expected to be match fit for the opening fixture. Based on the three warm up games, it's obvious how crucial Jones is the team, he not only provides huge leadership presence, but the scrum seems to function much better with his power behind the tight-head. Tomas Francis looked strong with the Osprey's captain behind him, but struggled against the Italians. Ken Owens has failed to impress me as a starting choice hooker, he doesn't have the same ball carrying impact he does from the bench.

The back row is still a loud and raging debate. Tipuric's displays in the first two warm-ups was impossible to ignore, yet I still can't imagine him fitting into the back row for the big tests. Captain Warburton will never be dropped if he is fit, and Toby Faletau (ignoring the Italy game) is infallible, a work-horse who helps Wales retain possession constantly, and has apparently been busting his arse in the gym to get even stronger. He is one of the world's top number eights without a doubt. Which just leaves a straight fight between Lydiate and Tipuric. And while Tipuric has perhaps the game of his life against Ireland in Dublin, Lydiate was ferocious in his tackling display. Showing just how much he brings to the breakdown battle, he may not be the jackler in the side, but he efficiently and effectively brings opposition players to the floor with brutal speed. Allowing one of Wales' premier "jacklers" to get on the ball before support can arrive. It's because of this that I still don't see Tipuric making the first choice back row, he may be a magician able to create chances at will, and he may be committed at the breakdown, and an incredible tackler in his own right, but he'll always been second to the intrinsic Lydiate/Warburton team.
James King should also get a mention, but against Italy he didn't really have a noticable performance, but he can't be accused of doing anything wrong either, meanwhile unselected Ross Moriarty had an incredible game from the substitutes bench, practically his first touch produced a rampaging 60 yard sprint up-field fending off the attention of three Italian defenders before linking up with Charteris with aplomb. Gatland could be regretting not taking the Gloucester player, he provides No. 8 cover which is severely lacking from the squad. And in my opinion the selection of five locks and King (who can cover there too), was excessive, Moriarty would have been a useful choice especially against Uruguay first up.

Wales power house back-row look certain to re-live their World Cup four years ago

So looking to the first game of the World Cup, it's obvious that Wales need to rack up a sizeable points tally against Uruguay, and they need to ensure that their first team is full rested before the three tricky games. So it's likely that a team close to full strength but not entirely will take the field. Gatland is not one to back down from the risks, even after last weekend. So expect him to take it as an opportunity to give first team players more game time, and give players returning from injury a run out. I would like to see Matt Morgan start a fullback, but it's more likely that Liam Williams will. Tipuric is highly likely to start the game, probably with Warburton to give the captain more time, considering he's only played one of the warm ups. Samson Lee will get the chance to ease back into test scrummaging, and I highly expect Cuthbert to be given another chance to impress, although personally I would choose Walker or Amos, and North will be given another game to recover from months out.

Predicted Team vs Uruguay:
Backs: L Williams, A Cuthbert, S Williams, J Roberts, G North, D Biggar, G Davies
Forwards: G Jenkins, K Owens, S Lee, AW Jones, B Davies, S Warburton, J Tipuric, T Faletau
Replacements: S Baldwin, P James, T Francis, L Charteris, J King, Ll Williams, R Priestland, M Morgan

Suggested Team vs Uruguay:
Backs: M Morgan, A Cuthbert, G North, S Williams, H Amos, D Biggar, Ll Williams
Forwards: G Jenkins, S Baldwin, S Lee, AW Jones, L Charteris, S Warburton, J Tipuric, T Faletau
Replacements: K Owens, P James, T Francis, J Ball, J King, G Davies, R Priestland, L Williams

I pick Morgan to start hoping for an early attacking intent, North gets the opportunity to play and get more experience at centre. Lloyd Williams with his quick tempo around the breakdown can be utilised to tire out Uruguay before unleashing the try scoring Davies with 20-30 minutes left. Charteris plays in an effort to steal lineout possession and keep the pressure on their opponents. K Owens also provides impact from the bench, alongside fellow Scarlet Liam Williams who could come on shortly into the second half to give him a longer run out back from injury.

Score Prediction: Wales by 30