NZ Herald - Rugby World Cup Feature 2019

14.09.2019

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RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 3

introduction

Foreword

BUCK SHELFORD

It was just before the start of the 1987 Rugby World Cup that All Blacks assistant coach John Hart called us to one side. New Zealand was still deeply divided by the Cavaliers’ trip to South Africa the previous year, following so soon after the highly controversial Springboks tour to the country in 1981.

On top of that, we had been well beaten in our last outing - the ill-tempered “battle of Nantes” against the French late in 1986. So when the World Cup finally came around, we were desperate for redemption, a chance to show our people – and the world – that we were better than that.

Expecting a big team talk, John had a surprisingly simple message: “New Zealand is split. We’ve got to win back the people.”

That was all the motivation we needed and, I believe, a key moment on our path to winning the Webb Ellis trophy that year.

With the start of the 2019 World Cup tournament only days away, the rugby landscape looks a lot different but the level of emotion the game evokes from Kiwis from all walks of life remains as relevant as ever.

As fans we can be unforgiving, even cruel – we expect the All Blacks to win, to always go forward.

Rugby is in our fabric, it’s who we are and we don’t take kindly to failure. Nor should we.

The World Cup is the pinnacle of a player’s career the Olympic Games of rugby.

This year, the All Blacks have a chance at history – claiming an unprecedented three-peat. Much like 32 years ago, the team have their doubters. We’ve heard how they’re not the team they once were, how they’re a spent force, how injuries to key players will stop this campaign in their tracks, that there are just too many unknowns before the first match against the Springboks.

What we do know, is that come September 21, Kieran Read and his men will each grow an extra foot taller when they pull on that black jersey.

Let’s bring it back. ck Buck

Introduction Profile: Steve Hansen Pool A – Ireland, Scotland Pool A – Japan, Samoa, Russia Pool B – New Zealand Pool B - South Africa Pool B – Italy, Namibia, Canada Pool C – England Pool C – France, Argentina Pool C – USA, Tonga Pool D – Australia, Wales Pool D – Georgia, Fiji, Uruguay World Cup draw Six Nations – Six to watch World Cup numbers All Blacks player profiles Phil Gifford’s Cup memories Venues Quiz

3 4-5 6 7 9 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18-19 20-21 22 23-31 32-33 34 35

credits

Cover image

A chance for sporting immortality awaits m World Cups have a habit of gathering momentum and providing upsets that inspire like few other results. writes Patrick McKendry

index

Editor Design Contributors

PICTURE / RICHARD ROBINSON

Cameron McMillan Rob Cox Phil Gifford, Patrick McKendry, Buck Shelford, Liam Napier, Christopher Reive, Chris Rattue Rod Emmerson

A

aron Smith put it pretty well recently when he said attending a World Cup was the pinnacle of any player’s career because it came with more pressure and more attention than at any other time.

What he didn’t say was that it also comes with more potential for glory and crushing failure and sometimes the difference between the two is a very fine line indeed.

For all the triumph experienced by the All Blacks and their supporters in 2011, imagine how the French felt after losing the final at Eden Park by one point.

The same goes for the Wallabies and their fans four years ago at the final whistle of the final on that warm afternoon in Twickenham and for South Africans seven days prior at the same drizzly venue.

While the margin of the final was clear-cut in the end (34-17), the Wallabies were still in with a good chance in the second half. In the case of the semifinal the margin was only two points (20-18).

Welcome, then, to the Herald’s Rugby World Cup magazine and a special time for all rugby supporters, especially those who closely follow one or more of the 20 teams competing in Japan.

No balls have been kicked or points scored yet, and therefore no one outside of those who play at the highest level has suffered the highs of victory or lows of defeat; instead there is anticipation unsullied by disappointment and a hope that this tournament, the first held in Asia and the first by a non-Tier 1 nation, lives up to the one in England and Wales four years ago when the rugby on display was perhaps the best ever seen at a Rugby World Cup. To continue the theme put forward by Smith, the little All Blacks halfback, not many experience playing in World Cups and even fewer know

what it’s like to lift the William Webb Ellis trophy, and so that’s why for the players who have been included in their nation’s 31-player squad there has already been jubilation.

For those who felt they were fully in the frame and missed out, men such as Owen Franks and Ireland’s Devin Toner, there will initially be a disappointment bordering on grief.

It is a chance for sporting immortality and it is granted to only a chosen few. But that’s not to say it’s all about the ultimate winners. World Cups have a habit of gathering momentum via their natural rhythm of building towards the knockout matches and that builds pace via upsets that inspire like few other results.

Japan’s incredible last-minute 34-32 first pool match victory over South Africa in Brighton four years ago will live long in the memory (as will the sporting reaction of the Boks’ supporters). So will France’s come-from-behind semifinal victory over the All Blacks at Twickenham in 1999, a win which united France and England in almost equal measure (I know for I was working in London at the time and not allowed to forget it by my English colleagues), and the French quarterfinal victory over the All Blacks in Cardiff in 2007.

Who will win this one? Clearly the All Blacks have as good or a slightly better chance than any other team due partly to the talent and depth of their squad, coaching team, and the lessons learned from the above disappointments.

They have never lost a pool game at a Rugby World Cup, but, then again, they have never before been in a pool with the Springboks. That match is on September 21 in Yokohama, a day after the tournament opener between Japan and Russia.

It will be the start of seven weeks of drama on and probably off the pitch. I can’t wait.

profile

4 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

T

wo World Cup titles, one as head coach, with the chance to add a second next month in Japan, and yet Steve Hansen knows all too well New Zealand rugby’s fickle nature dictates his last, pinnacle assignment carries significant weight to the final perception of his tenure.

Preside over any other nation and Hansen’s legacy would be off to the engravers, if not already etched in stone.

In a sport where very little separates the top rivals, Hansen’s near 89 per cent win record with the All Blacks, which features nine losses in 101 tests since 2012, is nothing short of phenomenal.

Longevity at the elite level alone is no easy feat – just ask Stuart Lancaster, Heyneke Meyer or Ewen McKenzie.

Only a few weeks ago, though, after the All Blacks conceded their most points in history in Perth, did Hansen receive a timely reminder that a third straight Webb Ellis Cup is not so much expected, as demanded.

Never mind this World Cup being the most open in history – South Africa, England, Ireland, Wales all laying claims to contender status.

Expectations on the All Blacks never change.

Win or bust leaves no room for perspective or reflection but that is the constant, common thread attached to the prestigious black jersey.

Hansen wants the World Cup campaign to be about anything but his final bow. Such is the driven team-first attitude this side fosters, his last stand will continue to be pushed aside.

Hansen’s shadow, though, undoubtedly hovers over this 31-man squad’s quest to again create history.

For eight years now this has been Hansen’s team. Japan, therefore, marks the end of a remarkably successful era, and one way or the other, the imminent changing of the guard.

Hansen has endured blips, sure, both major and minor. The drawn Lions series will long rankle, not solely for the officiating blunder that marred the third test conclusion but for the failure of the All Blacks to execute so many first half attacking opportunities.

Dual losses to Ireland, the first in history and first in Dublin, are unwanted records but they also reflect Joe Schmidt’s transformation of a deeply-passionate heavyweight that was duly recognised as World Rugby team of the year in 2018.

For each rare, deflating defeat under Hansen, much more pain has been inflicted on others.

Short memories forget in his second year at the helm, after stepping up from his role alongside Graham Henry and Wayne Smith following the drought-breaking 2011 World ew Cup triumph, Hansen swiftly ushered in a new he generation of talent which repaid faith with the first unbeaten season of the professional era. ar – Fourteen tests unblemished in that 2013 year 10 of those against teams ranked two to five.

The fact that feat is yet to be replicated e speaks to the difficulty of navigating intangible challenges, particularly in the current climate ro of evenly matched teams and inconsistent, zero tolerance officiating.

Not once has the treasured Bledisloe Cup left eftt New Zealand shores on Hansen’s watch, and who will ever forget the revenge-extacting 62-13 13 French beating in the World Cup quarterfinal in Cardiff four years ago?

Hansen’s reign features many special comebacks, too. The resolve to flip precarious positions on their head is testament to the team’s mental strength and belief.

The great escape in Dublin sits top for the way the All Blacks overturned a 19-0 deficit after 20 minutes to finish with one of the most clinical and composed tries, only to need a second Aaron Cruden conversion to clinch victory.

But from Ellis Park, where the All Blacks survived two yellow cards in 2013 – my personal favourite test of all time – to Dunedin, Pretoria, Brisbane and Twickenham, many such instances typify this tenure.

There can be few, if any, complaints about the style of rugby, either.

Hansen’s promotion of Aaron Smith and his rapid, long, sweeping pass has formed the backbone of the endeavour to chase width and run opposition off the park.

Typically this approach has been mixed with

HANSEN’S LEGACY TO BE DECIDED IN JAPAN Despite a winning record of 89 per cent, Hansen’s career as All Blacks coach could be defined by what happens at the World Cup. By Liam Napier

4 World Coach of the year

Hansen has endured blips, sure, both major and minor.

The drawn Lions series will long rankle, not solely for the officiating blunder that marred the third test conclusion but for the failure of the All Blacks to execute so many first half attacking opportunities. ruthless physicality, though this aspect will come under intense scrutiny in Japan.

As top dog Hansen has generally selected superbly and retained a sense of calm amid the madness test rugby brings. Along the way his public persona has dramatically improved – evolving from gruff and argumentative to the unflustered dry humour and quick wit we now witness.

The past 12 months have not been a glamour

8 Bledisloe Cup

period for the All Blacks with struggles against defensive line speed, which first reared their head against the Lions, continuing to cause headaches.

The No 1 ranking has also been lost, and however credible that may be, with Wales and then Ireland taking over top spot, it does enhance others’ belief while diminishing the fear factor.

Vulnerabilities have been evident against England, Ireland, South Africa, Australia and Argentina, though in recent months these can be balanced, somewhat, against elements of experimentation in preparation for the World Cup. Injuries to key figures haven’t helped, and the All Blacks don’t boast the same settled depth and experience as they did four years ago.

But when you have someone with Hansen’s conviction at the top of the tree, apples often fall at the right time.

Should they do so again soon, Japan would be the greatest triumph of them all.

profile

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 5

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Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Lost quarter-final playoff Quarter-finalists Pool Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists P 35 W 21 L 14 $9

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing first in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Johnny Sexton (pictured).

World Cup high: Ireland were brilliant in their 15-6 defeat of the Wallabies in 2011, not only finishing top of their group but also beating Australia for the first

Scotland Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Squad

1 Joe Schmidt Rory Best PICTURE / DEAN PURCELL

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

time at a World Cup. However, they couldn’t replicate that against Wales in the quarter-finals.

World Cup low: Ireland looked set for a place in the semifinals in 1991 until Michael Lynagh scored with three minutes remaining to hand Australia a 19-18 victory — the Wallabies went on to win the tournament.

Squad

7 Gregor Townsend Stuart McInally Quarter-finalists 4th Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Pool Quarter-finalists P 38 W 22 D 1 L 15 $41

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing second in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Stuart Hogg (pictured) if he is over injury problems.

World Cup high: Six-time quarter-finalists but having only once made the next step, Scotland’s biggest World Cup win would have to be their 28-6 victory

Forwards: Rory Best (captain), Tadhg Beirne, Jack Conan, Sean Cronin, Tadhg Furlong, Cian Healy, Dave Kilcoyne, Iain Henderson, Jean Kleyn, Peter O’Mahony, Andrew Porter, Rhys Ruddock, James Ryan, John Ryan, Niall Scannell, CJ Stander, Josh van der Flier.

Backs: Bundee Aki, Joey Carbery, Jack Carty, Andrew Conway, Keith Earls, Chris Farrell, Robbie Henshaw, Rob Kearney, Jordan Larmour, Luke McGrath, Conor Murray, Garry Ringrose, Jonathan Sexton, Jacob Stockdale.

Did you know? Ireland’s last pool play defeat was a 30-15 loss to Argentina in 2007.

They will be happy: With at least a spot in the final. Expectations should be high which is warranted for the side’s success over the last four years.

What we think will happen: Semifinals at least.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Pool A

Ireland

over Western Samoa in the final eight, 1991.

World Cup low: They were a dodgy Craig Joubert penalty away from earning a semifinal clash against Argentina four years ago. Instead it was another heartbreaking exit to Australia.

Did you know? Scotland have lost five times to New Zealand at the World Cup, three of those in the

Forwards: John Barclay, Simon Berghan, Fraser Brown, Scott Cummings, Allan Dell, Zander Fagerson, Grant Gilchrist, Jonny Gray, Stuart McInally (captain), WP Nel, Gordon Reid, Jamie Ritchie, Blade Thomson, Ben Toolis, George Turner, Hamish Watson, Ryan Wilson.

Backs: Darcy Graham, Chris Harris, Adam Hastings, Stuart Hogg, George Horne, Peter Horne, Sam Johnson, Blair Kinghorn, Greig Laidlaw, Sean Maitland, Ali Price, Finn Russell, Tommy Seymour, Duncan Taylor. quarter-finals (1987, 1995, 1999).

They will be happy: Beating Ireland…their recent record isn’t great against the Six Nations rivals but their squad has potential and a key win in the pool stage will boost their confidence.

What we think will happen: They will make it into the quarter-finals.

Japan Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Squad

10 Jamie Joseph Michael Leitch

Forwards: Keita Inagaki, Yusuke Kizu, Jiwon Koo, Isileli Nakajima, Asaeli Ai Valu, Takuya Kitade, Atsushi Sakate, Shota Horie, Luke Thompson, Wimpie van der Walt, Uwe Helu, James Moore, Hendrik Tui, Yoshitaka Tokunaga, Michael Leitch (captain), Pieter Labuschagne, Kazuki Himeno, Amanaki Lelei Mafi.

Backs: Kaito Shigeno, Fumiaki Tanaka, Yutaka Nagare, Yu Tamura, Rikiya Matsuda, Kenki Fukuoka, Ataata Moeakiola, Lomano Lava Lemeki, William Tupou, Ryoto Nakamura, Timothy Lafaele, Kotaro Matsushima, Ryohei Yamanaka.

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing third in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Michael Leitch (pictured).

World Cup high: It has to be the remarkable pool play victory over South Africa in Bristol in 2015, the biggest upset in the tournament’s history.

World Cup low: The All Blacks posting a 145-17 win over Japan at the 1995 tournament, which is a record

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool P 28 W 4 D 2 L 22 $151

for points that still stands.

Did you know? Down 70-0 to the All Blacks in 1995, Japan kicked a penalty.

They will be happy: Making the quarter-finals.

What we think will happen: They won’t make the quarter-finals. Ireland will be too classy for them while Scotland has made important strides and won’t be caught unaware.

Samoa Squad

16 Steve Jackson Jack Lam

Forwards: Afaesetiti Amosa, TJ Ioane, Jack Lam (captain), Piula Fa’asalele, Josh Tyrell, Chris Vui, Teofilo Paulo, Kane Leaupepe, Senio Toleafoa, Michael Alaalatoa, Paul Alo-Emile, James Lay, Jordan Lay, Logovi’i Mulipola, Motu Matu’u, Ray Niuia, Seilala Lam. Backs: Ed Fidow, Tim Nanai-Williams, Ahsee Tuala, Belgium Tuatagaloa, Henry Taefu, Alapati Leiua, Reynold Lee-Lo, Kieron Fonotia, AJ Atatimu, Tusi Pisi, Ulupano Seuteni, Dwayne Polotaivao, Melani Matavao, Pele Cowley.

Did not enter Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Lost quarter-final playoff Pool Pool Pool Pool P 28 W 12 L 16 $501

How they qualified: Won the cross-regional playoff qualifying against Germany.

Key player: Chris Vui (pictured).

World Cup high: After being controversially left out of the 1987 event, Samoa established their credentials with a 16-13 win over Wales at Cardiff Arms Park in their first 1991 game. And they repeated the dose in 1999, winning 38-31.

World Cup low: A 60-10 thumping at the hands of

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

South Africa in 2003.

Did you know? Samoa lost the biggest halftime lead in tournament history after squandering a 16-3 advantage against Argentina in 1999 to lose 32-16.

They will be happy: Finding the old spark…sprit is vital because they don’t have the players.

What we think will happen: It doesn’t look promising for a team lacking stars and lead-up form.

Russia Squad

20 Lyn Jones Vasily Artemyev

Forwards: Azamat Bitiev, Andrey Garbuzov, Kirill Gotovtsev, Victor Gresev, Bogdan Fedotko, Vitaliy Zhivatov, Evgeny Matveev, Andrey Polivalov, Vladimir Podrezov, Evgeny Yelgin, Stanislav Selsky, Nikita Vavilin, Sergey Chernyshev, Tagir Gadzhiev, Roman Khodin, Andrei Ostrikov, Valery Morozov, Anton Sychev.

Backs: Vasily Artemyev (captain), Igor Galinovsky, Kirill Golosnitsky, Vasily Dorofeev, Yuri Kushnarev, German Davydov, Dmitry Perov, Vladislav Sozonov, Dmitry Gerasimov, Ramil Gaysin, Denis Simplikevich, Vladimir Ostroushko, Sergey Yanyushkin.

Did not enter Did not enter Did not qualify Did not qualify Banned Did not qualify Pool Did not qualify P4W0L4 $501

How they qualified: Won the European regional qualifying spot.

Key player: Vasily Artemyev (pictured).

World Cup high: Considering three of their four defeats in 2011 were thrashings to Ireland, Italy and Australia it’s probably their 13-6 defeat to the USA. World Cup low: They were handed three heavy

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

losses in 2011 and hard to separate them leaking 183 points to Ireland, Italy and Australia.

Did you know? Their biggest win came against Denmark in 2000, a 104-7 thrashing.

They will be happy: With one win.

What we think will happen: Tricky team to gauge… could push the hosts close in the opener if Japan succumb to the pressure.

Pool A

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Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Pool B

New Zealand 2 Steve Hansen Kieran Read Champions 3rd 2nd 4th 3rd Quarter-finals Champions Champions P 50 W 44 L 6 $2.20

Squad Forwards: Dane Coles, Liam Coltman, Codie Taylor, Nepo Laulala, Joe Moody, Atu Moli, Angus Ta’avao, Ofa Tuungafasi, Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sam Whitelock, Sam Cane, Luke Jacobson, Kieran Read, Ardie Savea, Matt Todd.

Backs: Aaron Smith, TJ Perenara, Brad Weber, Beauden Barrett, Richie Mo’unga, Anton LienertBrown, Jack Goodhue, Ryan Crotty, Sonny Bill Williams, George Bridge, Sevu Reece, Rieko Ioane, Ben Smith, Jordie Barrett.

PICTURE / BRETT PHIBBS

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing first in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Beauden Barrett (pictured).

World Cup high: Three World Cup titles in 1987, 2011 and 2015 – don’t make us pick one.

World Cup low: The quarter-final defeat to France in Cardiff in 2007 was a particularly bitter pill to swallow. But they haven’t lost at the World Cup since.

Did you know? The 1987 World Cup All Blacks were billeted with local families rather than staying in hotels during the tournament.

They will be happy: Winning the Webb Ellis, and nothing less.

What we think will happen: They will go close of course but the rest of the rugby world no longer fears the All Blacks as they once did.

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South Africa

Pool B

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Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

4 Rassie Erasmus Siya Kolisi Did not enter Did not enter Champions 3rd Quarter-finals Champions Quarter-finals 3rd P 36 W 30 L 6 $5.50

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing first in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Malcolm Marx (pictured).

World Cup high: Nothing will top their victory in the 1995 World Cup. Nelson Mandela was on hand, wearing captain Francois Pienaar’s No 6 jersey for the final.

World Cup low: Losing to Japan in 2015, but they were able to rebound from that shock defeat and

Squad

Forwards: Schalk Brits, Bongi Mbonambi, Malcolm Marx, Frans Malherbe, Trevor Nyakane, Vincent Koch, Steven Kitshoff, Tendai Mtawarira, RG Snyman, Eben Etzebeth, Lood de Jager, Franco Mostert, Siya Kolisi (captain), Kwagga Smith, Francois Louw, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Duane Vermeulen.

Backs: Willie le Roux, Warrick Gelant, Cheslin Kolbe, Sbu Nkosi, Makazole Mapimpi, Lukhanyo Am, Damian de Allende, Frans Steyn, Jesse Kriel, Handre Pollard, Elton Jantjies, Faf de Klerk, Cobus Reinach, Herschel Jantjies.

push the All Blacks in the semifinals.

Did you know? It was a 12-year gap between titles in 1995 and 2007. 12 years later they head to Japan.

They will be happy: With a third title. Recent results against the All Blacks prove they have the goods to go all the way.

What we think will happen: Might be their time.

They have a monster pack, great goalkicker, and livewire halfbacks who give the ’Boks a lot of energy.

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Italy Squad

14 Conor O’Shea Sergio Parisse

Forwards: Simone Ferrari, Andrea Lovotti, Tiziano Pasquali, Nicola Quaglio, Marco Riccioni, Federico Zani, Luca Bigi, Oliviero Fabiani, Leonardo Ghiraldini, Dean Budd, Federico Ruzza, David Sisi, Alessandro Zanni, Maxime Mbanda, Sebastian Negri, Sergio Parisse (captain), Jake Polledri, Abraham Steyn.

Backs: Callum Braley, Guglielmo Palazzini, Tito Tebaldi, Tommaso Allan, Carlo Canna, Tommaso Benvenuti, Michele Campagnaro, Luca Morisi, Mattia Bellini, Giulio Bisegni, Jayden Hayward, Matteo Minozzi, Edoardo Padovani.

Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool P 28 W 11 L 17 $501

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing third in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Sergio Parisse (pictured).

World Cup high: They might have been pummelled 70-6 but had the honour of playing the All Blacks in the opening game of the first World Cup in 1987.

World Cup low: A lack of a top goalkicker and sinbinning of Mauro Bergamasco cost Italy a place in the 2007 quarter-finals as they went down 18-16 to Scotland in an ugly encounter.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Namibia Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Did you know? Mauro Bergamasco played in five World Cups for Italy (1999, 2003, 2007, 2011 and 2015).

They will be happy: Halting a horrible run of results against good teams.

What we think will happen: Nothing very good. Italy have failed to turn their admission into the Six Nations into much at all. It is a bit of a mystery.

Squad

2 Phil Davies Johan Deysel

Forwards: Andre Rademeyer, Nelius Theron, Desiderius Sethie, AJ de Klerk, Johannes Coetzee, Obert Nortje, Louis van der Westhuizen, Torsten van Jaarsveld, Tjiuee Uanivi, Johan Retief, Thomasau Forbes, Rohan Kitshoff, Max Katjijeko, Prince Gaoseb, Wian Conradie, PJ van Lill, Adriaan Booysen, Janco Venter.

Backs: Cliven Loubser, Helarius Kisting, Damian Stevens, Eugene Jantjies, Darryl de la Harpe, Johan Deysel (captain), Justin Newman, JC Greyling, Johann Tromp, Chad Plato, Lesley Klim, Janry du Toit, PJ Walters.

Did not qualify Did not qualify Did not qualify Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool P 19 W 0 L 19 $501 PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

How they qualified: Won the Africa regional qualifying spot.

Key player: Eugene Jantjies (pictured).

World Cup high: Lost 17-16 to Georgia in the last tournament. They also scored three tries in a game for the first time in 2015, on two occasions in defeats to

Tonga and Argentina.

World Cup low: This one’s much easier to select — Namibia’s 142-0 loss against Australia in 2003 is the biggest losing margin in tournament history.

Did you know? Namibia have never won a game at a Rugby World Cup, playing more matches (19) without

a win than any other nation.

They will be happy: If they can get that first win at the Rugby World Cup. They’ll be circling that final pool game against Canada, ranked just ahead of them, in the calendar.

What we think will happen: The winless run continues.

Canada Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Squad

22 Kingsley Jones Tyler Ardron

Forwards: Tyler Ardron (captain), Kyle Baillie, Justin Blanchet, Hubert Buydens, Luke Campbell, Matt Heaton, Eric Howard, Jake Ilnicki, Cole Keith, Conor Keys, Evan Olmstead, Benoit Piffero, Andrew Quattrin, Lucas Rumball, Djustice Sears-Duru, Mike Sheppard, Matthew Tierney.

Backs: Nick Blevins, Andrew Coe, Jeff Hassler, Ciaran Hearn, Ben LeSage, Phil Mack, Jamie Mackenzie, Gordon McRorie, Peter Nelson, Shane O’Leary, Patrick Parfrey, Taylor Paris, Conor Trainor, DTH van der Merwe.

Pool Quarter-finalists Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool P 29 W 7 D 2 L 20 $501

How they qualified: Won the repechage qualification spot.

Key player: Tyler Ardron (pictured).

World Cup high: Being competitive against the All Blacks in a 29-13 quarter-final defeat in 1991.

They got that far after beating Fiji and Romania in pool play.

World Cup low: Having two players sent off in an ugly brawl in a 22-0 defeat to South Africa in 1995.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Pool B

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Did you know? Canada failed to record a win at the 2015 tournament, only the second time they’ve gone winless at the World Cup (2007).

They will be happy: If they can get a result against Italy along with a win over Namibia – and avoid embarrassing results against the All Blacks and South Africa.

What we think will happen: A battle with Namibia to avoid last place in the group.

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 13

3 Eddie Jones Owen Farrell Quarter-finalists 2nd 4th Quarter-finalists Champions 2nd Quarter-finalists Pool P 44 W 31 L 13 $6

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Pool C

England

Squad Forwards: Dan Cole, Luke Cowan-Dickie, Tom Curry, Ellis Genge, Jamie George, Maro Itoje, George Kruis, Joe Launchbury, Courtney Lawes, Lewis Ludlam, Joe Marler, Kyle Sinckler, Jack Singleton, Sam Underhill, Billy Vunipola, Mako Vunipola, Mark Wilson.

Backs: Joe Cokanasiga, Elliot Daly, Owen Farrell (captain), George Ford, Piers Francis, Willi Heinz, Jonathan Joseph, Jonny May, Ruaridh McConnochie, Jack Nowell, Henry Slade, Manu Tuilagi, Anthony Watson, Ben Youngs.

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing third in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Maro Itoje (pictured).

World Cup high: Winning in 2003. They were written off as too old and yet blew everyone away in Australia.

World Cup low: Their 2015 campaign was a disaster. As hosts, hopes were high, but they failed to make it out of group play following defeats to Wales and Australia.

Did you know? England were the first hosts since Wales in 1999 to fail to make the knockout stage after finishing third in pool A in 2015.

They will be happy: Despite the disastrous campaign four years ago they’ll be expecting a title in 2019.

What we think will happen: If they reach the semifinals it’s likely they’ll meet the All Blacks. Even though they pushed them at Twickenham last year, it might be too much on neutral territory.

France 8 Jacques Brunel Guilhem Guirado 2nd Quarter-finalists 3rd 2nd 4th 4th 2nd Quarter-finalists P 48 W 33 D 1 L 14 $26

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Squad Forwards: Jefferson Poirot, Rabah Slimani, Demba Bamba, Emerick Setiano, Cyril Baille, Guilhem Guirado, Camille Chat, Peato Mauvaka, Sabastien Vahaamahina, Paul Gabrillagues, Arthur Iturria, Bernard Le Roux, Gregory Alldritt, Charles Ollivon, Louis Picamoles, Yacouba Camara, Wenceslas Lauret.

Backs: Antoine Dupont, Baptiste Serin, Maxime Machenaud, Camille Lopez, Romain Ntamack, Gael Fickou, Wesley Fofana, Sofiane Guitoune, Virimi Vakatawa, Yoann Huget, Alivereti Raka, Damian Penaud, Maxime Madard, Thomas Ramos.

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing second in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Guilhem Guirado (pictured).

World Cup high: They might have lost but they came within a d’un cheveu (whisker) of beating the All Blacks in the 2011 final.

World Cup low: Amazingly, they were beaten 19-14

by Tonga in pool play in 2011.

Did you know? France are the only side to lose three

World Cup finals (1987, 1999, 2011).

They will be happy: They can make it to the semifinals. This is not a great French side but we’ve said that before.

What we think will happen: The first game against Argentina is key. Lose that and they need to beat England to have any chance of making the quarter-finals. Even if they do, it’s likely Wales or Australia will be waiting in the next round. An early exit awaits them either way.

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing second in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Pablo Matera (pictured).

World Cup high: Their best-ever tournament was in 2007 when they topped the so-called pool of death by beating England and Ireland, and defeated Scotland 19-13 in the quarter-final. They were eventually beaten 37-13 by South Africa in the semifinal but rallied to thrash France 34-10 in Paris to win the playoff for third and fourth. They also reached the bronze final four years ago.

World Cup low: They failed to win a match in 1991 but were in a tough pool with Manu Samoa, Wales and Australia.

Did you know? Argentina are known as Los Pumas, but their emblem is actually that of a jaguar.

They will be happy: Will definitely see themselves as potential semifinalists.

What we think will happen: If they can find a good mix of creativity and power then they can be an interesting dark horse. And they had a good style at the last tournament.

Argentina Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

11 Mario Ledesma Pablo Matera Pool Pool Pool Quarter-finalists Pool 3rd Quarter-finalists 4th P 37 W 19 L 18 $41

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Pool C

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Squad Forwards: Nahuel Tetaz Chapparo, Mayco Vivas, Agustin Creevy, Julian Montoya, Santiago Socino, Juan Figallo, Santiago Medrano, Enrique Pieretto, Guido Petti, Tomas Lavanini, Matias Alemanno, Pablo Matera, Tomas Lezana, Javier Ortega Desio, Marcos Kremer, Rodrigo Bruni, Juan Manuel Leguizamon.

Backs: Tomas Cubelli, Felipe Ezcurra, Nicolas Sanchez, Benjamin Urdapilleta, Jeronimo de la Fuente, Matias Orlando, Matias Moroni, Lucan Mensa, Juan Cruz Mallia, Ramiro Moyano, Bautista Delguy, Santiago Carreras, Emiliano Boffelli, Joaquin Tuculet.

USA Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Squad

13 Gary Gold Blaine Scully

Forwards: David Ainu’u, Malon Al-Jiboori, Nate Brakeley, Nick Civetta, Cam Dolan, Dylan Fawsitt, Eric Fry, Hanco Germishuys, James Hilterbrand, Olive Kilifi, Tony Lamborn, Titi Lamositele, Ben Landry, Paul Mullen, Gregory Peterson, Ben Pinkelman, John Quill, Joseph Taufete’e.

Backs: Blaine Scully (captain), Nate Augspurger, Marcel Brache, Bryce Campbell, Shaun Davies, Ruben De Haas, Will Hooley, Martin Iosefo, Paul Lasike, AJ MacGinty, Will Magie, Thretton Palamo, Mike Te’o.

Pool Pool Did not qualify Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool P 25 W 3 L 22 $501

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

How they qualified: Won the Americas 1 regional qualifying spot.

Key player: Joe Taufete’e (pictured).

World Cup high: The US beat Japan in their first World Cup game in 1987 but it was their second victory over the Cherry Blossoms that stands out, winning 39-26 in 2003 to set records for most points scored and largest margin of victory.

Pool C

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 15

World Cup low: They went winless four years ago including a 64-0 defeat to South Africa.

Did you know? They may have been luckless at World Cups but America are Olympic champions, with gold at the 1920 and 1924 Games.

They will be happy: If they can upset France or Argentina.

What we think will happen: Watch out France.

Tonga Squad

15 Totai Kefu Siale Piutau

Forwards: Siegfried Fisi’ihoi, Vunipola Fifita, Latu Talakai, Paula Ngauamo, Sosefo Sakalia, Siua Maile, Siua Halanukonuka, Ma’afu Fia, Ben Tameifuna, Sam Lousi, Leva Fifita, Sitiveni Mafi, Sione Kalamafoni, Maama Vaipulu, Fotu Lokotui, Zane Kapeli, Dan Faleafa, Nasi Manu.

Backs: Sonatane Takulua, Leon Fukofuka, Samisoni Fisilau, Kurt Morath, James Faiva, Siale Piutau, Malietoa Hingano, Nafi Tuitavake, Atieli Pakalani, David Halaifonua, Viliami Lolohea, Cooper Vuna, Telusa Veainu.

Pool Did not qualify Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool Pool P 25 W 7 L 18 $501

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

How they qualified: Won the Oceania 2 regional qualifying spot.

Key player: Telusa Veainu (pictured).

World Cup high: No question, it was beating France 19-14 in Wellington in the 2011 World Cup, a stunning result against the eventual finalists.

World Cup low: The 101-10 thrashing by England at Twickenham in 1999.

Did you know? Tonga defeated Australia in their first ever meeting in 1973.

They will be happy: If they can keep riding the wave started by the Tongan league team.

What we think will happen: Won’t progress.

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Australia Squad

6 Michael Cheika Michael Hooper

Forwards: Isi Naisarani, Jack Dempsey, Michael Hooper (captain), David Pocock, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Rory Arnold, Izack Rodda, Adam Coleman, Rob Simmons, Allan Alaalatoa, Taniela Tupou, Sekope Kepu, Scott Sio, James Slipper, Tolu Latu, Folau Fainga’a, Jordan Uelese.

Backs: Kurtley Beale, Dane Haylett-Petty, Reece Hodge, Marika Koroibete, Jordan Petaia, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Tevita Kuridrani, James O’Connor, Samu Kerevi, Matt Toomua, Christian Leali’ifano, Bernard Foley, Nic White, Will Genia.

4th Champions Quarter-finalists Champions 2nd Quarter-finalists 3rd 2nd P 48 W 39 L9 $13

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing first in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: David Pocock (pictured).

World Cup high: They wouldn’t be able to choose between their 1991 and 1999 campaigns.

World Cup low: Crashing out in the quarter-finals of the 2007 tournament to an England team barely holding together.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Did you know? Australia hold the record of most points scored by the loser of the World Cup final – 17 points in both 2003 and 2015.

They will be happy: Beating Wales, for a confidence booster in the pool.

What we think will happen: Will emerge from their pool, but won’t get close to the trophy.

Wales Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Squad

5 Warren Gatland Alun Wyn Jones

Forwards: Jake Ball, Adam Beard, Rhys Carre, James Davies, Elliot Dee, Ryan Elias, Tomas Francis, Cory Hill, Alun Wyn Jones (captain), Wyn Jones, Dillon Lewis, Ross Moriarty, Josh Navidi, Ken Owens, Aaron Shingler, Nicky Smith, Justin Tipuric, Aaron Wainwright.

3rd Pool Pool Quarter-finalists Quarter-finalists Pool 4th Quarter-finalists P 37 W 21 L 16 $10

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing second in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Alun Wyn Jones (pictured).

World Cup high: Reaching the semifinals in 2011. It was a good tournament for them – they were fit, well organised and played well.

World Cup low: Losing to Western Samoa in 1991 or Fiji in 2007 or seeing captain Sam Warburton redcarded in the semifinal in 2011, leaving them a man down for most of the game.

Backs: Josh Adams, Hallam Amos, Dan Biggar, Aled Davies, Gareth Davies, Jonathan Davies, Leigh Halfpenny, George North, Hadleigh Parkes, Rhys Patchell, Owen Watkin, Liam Williams, Tomos Williams.

PICTURE / NZPA

Pool D

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Did you know? After Warburton was sent off, the bloke in the seat next to him on the plane home from Auckland was Vincent Clerc (the French wing whom he had tip-tackled to earn the red card).

They will be happy: After Six Nations glory it has to be a first ever final and a maiden title to complete Gatland’s successful reign.

What we think will happen: Semifinals at least but we can’t see Wales doing the Six Nations-World Cup double like England in 2003.

Georgia Squad

12 Milton Haig Merab Sharikadze

Forwards: Mikheil Nariashvili, Guram Gogichashvili, Shalva Mamukashvili, Jaba Bregvadze, Vano Karkadze, Levan Chilachava, Giorgi Melikidze, Beka Gigashvili, Giorgi Nemsadze, Shalva Sutiashvili, Mamuka Gorgodze, Kote Mikautadze, Giorgi Tkhilaishvili, Lasha Lomidze, Otar Giorgadze, Beka Gorgadze, Beka Saghinadze.

Backs: Sandro Todua, Soso Matiashvili, Mirian Modebadze, Zurab Dzneladze, Davit Katcharava, Merab Sharikadze, Tamaz Mtchedlidze, Giorgi Kveseladze, Lasha Malaghuradze, Lasha Khmaladze, Tedo Abzhandadze, Giorgi Begadze, Vasil Lobzhanidze, Gela Aprasidze.

Did not qualify Did not qualify Did not qualify Did not qualify Pool Pool Pool Pool P 16 W 4 L 12 $501

How they qualified: Automatic after finishing third in their pool at the 2015 World Cup. Key player: Beka Gorgadze (pictured).

World Cup high: Doubling their World Cup wins total with two victories (17-10 over Tonga and 17-16 over Namibia) at the last tournament to finish third behind the All Blacks and Argentina.

World Cup low: Their first ever game, did not go quite so well, being humbled 84-6 by eventual winners England in 2003.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

Did you know? Georgia are known as the Lelos, a nickname derived from a folk sport called Lelo Burti that shares traits with rugby.

They will be happy: They repeat 2015’s efforts and earn two wins.

What we think will happen: That October 3 clash with Fiji in Higashiosaka should prove the third placed battle in pool D. Expect Georgia to just get the win.

Fiji Squad

9 John McKee Dominiko Waqaniburotu Quarter-finalists Pool Did not qualify Lost quarter-final playoff Pool Quarter-finalist Pool Pool P 28 W 10 L 18 $501

How they qualified: Won the Oceania 1 regional qualifying spot.

Key player: Leone Nakarawa (pictured).

World Cup high: Making the quarter-finals in 2007 when they had South Africa rattled for much of the game.

PICTURE / BRETT PHIBBS

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

World Cup low: Being denied a fair crack at France in 1999 due to a horrific refereeing performance by Kiwi whistler Paddy O’Brien. He would later say it was a car crash of a performance.

Did you know? The only World Cup they failed to record a win was in 1991.

Forwards: Mesu Dolokoto, Sam Matavesi, Tuvere Veremalua, Lee Roy Atalifo, Campese Ma’afu, Eroni Mawi, Peni Ravai, Manasa Saulo, Tevita Cavubati, Leone Nakarawa, Api Ratuniyarawa, Tevita Ratuva, Semi Kunatani, Viliame Mata, Mosese Voka, Dominiko Waqaniburotu (capatain), Peceli Yato.

Backs: Frank Lomani, Nikola Matawalu, Henry Seniloli, Alivereti Veitokani, Ben Volavola, Levani Botia, Josh Matavesi, Semi Radradra, Jale Vatubua, Vereniki Goneva, Filipo Nakosi, Waisea Nayacalevu, Josua Tuisovam, Kini Murimurivalu.

They will be happy: They win two group games over Uruguay and Georgia, however the latter will prove to be a tough matchup.

What we think will happen: No upset over Australia or Wales will mean a third straight failure to make the second round.

Uruguay Squad

19 Esteban Meneses Juan Manuel Gaminara

Forwards: Facundo Gattas, Joaquín Jaunsolo, Mateo Sanguinetti, Germán Kessler, Guillermo Pujadas, Diego Arbelo, Juan Echeverría, Juan Pedro Rombys, Ignacio Dotti, Manuel Leindekar, Diego Magno, Franco Lamana, Manuel Ardao, Santiago Civetta, Manuel Diana, Juan Manuel Gaminara (captain), Juan Diego Ormaechea, Alejandro Nieto.

Backs: Agustín Ormaechea, Santiago Arata, Felipe Berchesi, Felipe Etcheverry, Juan Manuel Cat, Santiago Vilaseca, Agustín Della Corte, Tomás Inciarte, Federico Favaro, Nicolás Freitas, Leandro Leivas, Gastón Mieres, Rodrigo Silva.

Did not qualify Did not qualify Did not qualify Pool Pool Did not qualify Did not qualify Pool P 11 W 2 L 9 $501

How they qualified: Won the Americas 2 regional qualifying spot.

Key player: Agustín Ormaechea (pictured).

World Cup high: Beating Georgia at the 2003 tournament.

World Cup low: Conceding more than 100 points to England in the same World Cup. Did you know? Uruguay have never beaten Argentina and the only time they have won

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Ranking: Coach: Captain: Previous campaigns 1987: 1991: 1995: 1999: 2003: 2007: 2011: 2015: Overall record: Odds:

the South American Rugby Championship was in 1982 when Los Pumas were absent from the competition.

They will be happy: If they can earn another victory over Georgia and avoid heavy defeats to Australia, Wales and Fiji, three teams who put 45+ on them four years ago.

What we think will happen: Will finish bottom of the group yet again.

Pool D

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 17

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 19

Rugby World Cup 2019 draw QUARTER-FINALS

POOL A

Japan v Russia

Fri 20 Sep, 10.45pm(NZT), Tokyo Stadium

Ireland v Scotland

Sun 22 Sep, 7.45pm, International Stadium Yokohama

C B

Russia v Samoa

Scotland v Samoa

D A

Ireland v Russia Japan v Samoa

Scotland v Russia Ireland v Samoa

A

1

QF3: Winner Pool D v Runner-up Pool C

C

QF4: Winner Pool A v Runner-up Pool B

B

3

4

England v Tonga

v WINNER

New Zealand v Italy

Sat 12 Oct, 5.45pm, City of Toyota Stadium

Namibia v Canada

Sun 13 Oct, 4.15pm, Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium

Australia v Fiji

Sat 21 Sep, 4.45pm, Sapporo Dome

Wales v Georgia

Mon 23 Sep, 10.15pm, City of Toyota Stadium

Georgia v Uruguay

Sun 29 Sep, 6.15pm, Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

FINAL Winner SF1 v Winner SF2

France v Tonga

v

Sat 5 Oct, 9pm, Tokyo Stadium

Australia v Wales

Sun 29 Sep, 8.45pm, Tokyo Stadium

Georgia v Fiji

Thurs 3 Oct, 6.15pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

Sun 6 Oct, 8.45pm, Kumamoto Stadium

Argentina v USA

Wed 9 Oct, 5.45pm, Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

Australia v Uruguay Sat 5 Oct, 6.15pm, Oita Stadium

Wales v Fiji

Wed 9 Oct, 10.45pm, Oita Stadium

England v France USA v Tonga

Tues 8 Oct, 11.15pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

Fiji v Uruguay

England v Argentina

Sun 13 Oct, 6.45pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

South Africa v Canada

Wed 25 Sep, 5.15pm, Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium

Sat 2 Nov, 10pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sat 12 Oct 9.15pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sun 6 Oct, 5.45pm, Tokyo Stadium

POOL D

Fri 1 Nov, 10pm, Tokyo Stadium

Sun 22 Sep, 10.15pm, Sapporo Dome

Wed 2 Oct, 8.45pm, Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

Wed 2 Oct, 11.15pm, Oita Stadium

South Africa v Italy

SF2: Winner QF3 v Winner QF4

Sun 27 Oct,t, 10pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sat 21 Sep, 7.15pm, Tokyo Stadium

France v USA

New Zealand v Canada Fri 4 Oct, 10.45pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

2

Loser SF1 v Loser SF2

Argentina v Tonga

Sat 28 Sep, 9.45pm, City of Toyota Stadium

SF1: Winner QF1 v Winner QF2

France v Argentina

Sat 28 Sep, 4.45pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

South Africa v Namibia

New Zealand v Namibia

BRONZE FINAL

England v USA

Italy v Canada

Thu 26 Sep, 7.45pm, Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

Sat 26 Oct, 9pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Japan v Scotland

Thurs 26 Sep, 10.45pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

Italy v Namibia

SEMIFINALS

Sun 13 Oct, 11.45pm, International Stadium Yokohama

POOL C

QF2: Winner Pool B v Runner-up Pool A

Sun 22 Sep, 5.15pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

Sat 21 Sep, 9.45pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sun 20 Oct,t, 11.15pm, Tokyo Stadium

Wed 9 Oct, 8.15pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Sat 12 Oct, 11.45pm, Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

New Zealand v South Africa

Sun 20 Oct,t, 8.15pm, Oita Stadium

Thurs 3 Oct, 11.15pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

Sat 5 Oct, 11.30pm, City of Toyota Stadium

D

Sat 19 Oct, 11.15pm, Tokyo Stadium

Sat 28 Sep, 7.15pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Mon 30 Sep, 11.15pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

QF1: Winner Pool C v Runner-up Pool D Sat 19 Oct, 8.15pm, Oita Stadium

Tues 24 Sep, 10.15pm, Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

Japan v Ireland

POOL B

Australia v Georgia

WINNER

Fri 11 Oct 11.15pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Wales v Uruguay

Sun 13 Oct, 9.15pm, Kumamoto Stadium

the draw

the draw

18 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 19

Rugby World Cup 2019 draw QUARTER-FINALS

POOL A

Japan v Russia

Fri 20 Sep, 10.45pm(NZT), Tokyo Stadium

Ireland v Scotland

Sun 22 Sep, 7.45pm, International Stadium Yokohama

C B

Russia v Samoa

Scotland v Samoa

D A

Ireland v Russia Japan v Samoa

Scotland v Russia Ireland v Samoa

A

1

QF3: Winner Pool D v Runner-up Pool C

C

QF4: Winner Pool A v Runner-up Pool B

B

3

4

England v Tonga

v WINNER

New Zealand v Italy

Sat 12 Oct, 5.45pm, City of Toyota Stadium

Namibia v Canada

Sun 13 Oct, 4.15pm, Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium

Australia v Fiji

Sat 21 Sep, 4.45pm, Sapporo Dome

Wales v Georgia

Mon 23 Sep, 10.15pm, City of Toyota Stadium

Georgia v Uruguay

Sun 29 Sep, 6.15pm, Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

FINAL Winner SF1 v Winner SF2

France v Tonga

v

Sat 5 Oct, 9pm, Tokyo Stadium

Australia v Wales

Sun 29 Sep, 8.45pm, Tokyo Stadium

Georgia v Fiji

Thurs 3 Oct, 6.15pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

Sun 6 Oct, 8.45pm, Kumamoto Stadium

Argentina v USA

Wed 9 Oct, 5.45pm, Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

Australia v Uruguay Sat 5 Oct, 6.15pm, Oita Stadium

Wales v Fiji

Wed 9 Oct, 10.45pm, Oita Stadium

England v France USA v Tonga

Tues 8 Oct, 11.15pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

Fiji v Uruguay

England v Argentina

Sun 13 Oct, 6.45pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

South Africa v Canada

Wed 25 Sep, 5.15pm, Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium

Sat 2 Nov, 10pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sat 12 Oct 9.15pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sun 6 Oct, 5.45pm, Tokyo Stadium

POOL D

Fri 1 Nov, 10pm, Tokyo Stadium

Sun 22 Sep, 10.15pm, Sapporo Dome

Wed 2 Oct, 8.45pm, Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

Wed 2 Oct, 11.15pm, Oita Stadium

South Africa v Italy

SF2: Winner QF3 v Winner QF4

Sun 27 Oct,t, 10pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sat 21 Sep, 7.15pm, Tokyo Stadium

France v USA

New Zealand v Canada Fri 4 Oct, 10.45pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

2

Loser SF1 v Loser SF2

Argentina v Tonga

Sat 28 Sep, 9.45pm, City of Toyota Stadium

SF1: Winner QF1 v Winner QF2

France v Argentina

Sat 28 Sep, 4.45pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

South Africa v Namibia

New Zealand v Namibia

BRONZE FINAL

England v USA

Italy v Canada

Thu 26 Sep, 7.45pm, Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

Sat 26 Oct, 9pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Japan v Scotland

Thurs 26 Sep, 10.45pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

Italy v Namibia

SEMIFINALS

Sun 13 Oct, 11.45pm, International Stadium Yokohama

POOL C

QF2: Winner Pool B v Runner-up Pool A

Sun 22 Sep, 5.15pm, Hanazono Rugby Stadium

Sat 21 Sep, 9.45pm, International Stadium Yokohama

Sun 20 Oct,t, 11.15pm, Tokyo Stadium

Wed 9 Oct, 8.15pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Sat 12 Oct, 11.45pm, Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium

New Zealand v South Africa

Sun 20 Oct,t, 8.15pm, Oita Stadium

Thurs 3 Oct, 11.15pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

Sat 5 Oct, 11.30pm, City of Toyota Stadium

D

Sat 19 Oct, 11.15pm, Tokyo Stadium

Sat 28 Sep, 7.15pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Mon 30 Sep, 11.15pm, Kobe Misaki Stadium

QF1: Winner Pool C v Runner-up Pool D Sat 19 Oct, 8.15pm, Oita Stadium

Tues 24 Sep, 10.15pm, Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

Japan v Ireland

POOL B

Australia v Georgia

WINNER

Fri 11 Oct 11.15pm, Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Wales v Uruguay

Sun 13 Oct, 9.15pm, Kumamoto Stadium

the draw

the draw

18 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

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6 dangers of

1 2 3

Jacob Stockdale

Josh Navidi

Mako Vunipola

New Zealanders will remember Stockdale as the heartbreak kid who scored the decisive try in Ireland’s maiden home victory over the All Blacks last November. Never has an Irish rugby crowd been so loud.

Stockdale loves a chip and chase, loves a try; finishing Joe Schmidt’s lineout switch move against the All Blacks but one example.

While his future Irish teammates prepared for the 2017 British and Irish Lions tour, Stockdale made his test debut against the United States in New York, and has been on the rise since.

In the 2018 Six Nations, as Ireland swept all before them to clinch the coveted grand slam, Stockdale scored seven tries to break the record and claim the player of the tournament award.

Never mind Rieko Ioane, it’s that form which prompted former Lions and England wing Ugo Monye to label Stockdale the world’s best finisher.

With pace, anticipation and a pure finisher’s nose, the 23-year-old is clearly a supreme talent.

Stockdale’s strike rate (16 tries in 21 tests) speaks to his potency.

Ireland are also well adept at utilising his ability to break the line from set phase attack.

Stockdale has, however, been forced to adjust his try-scoring technique after dropping the ball over the line, while attempting a one-handed put down, in Ulster’s three-point Champions Cup quarterfinal defeat to Irish rivals Leinster in March.

“It’s a mistake I’ll probably play over in my head thousands and thousands of times,” Stockdale said recently. “Yeah, it was a really hard one to take but the one thing that made it easier was the support I got.

“I’ll definitely be diving for the next try, no doubt.”

Lions fullback Liam Williams is the more fashionable choice but we’ve gone for the more rugged option.

Consistently overlooked by Warren Gatland earlier in his career, playing 18 tests since 2013, Navidi has fast become a central figure in Wales’ rise to World Cup contender status after starting every match in their grand slam success this year, making 83 tackles across the five games.

It was a breakout tournament for Navidi, the son of an Iranian wrestler.

New Zealand can claim some credit, too. Navidi savoured his time studying accountancy and physical education at St Bede’s College in Christchurch, where he mixed it up on the footy fields. He even turned down a place in Canterbury’s rugby academy.

“In the end it came down to my dad reminding me I was Welsh,” Navidi once said.

“I could have stayed there happily enough but I am a Welsh boy and wanted to put a red jersey on.”

Navidi is not the biggest bloke but he has a huge heart. He thrives on physical confrontation, collisions, and is deceptively strong with ball in hand.

Sam Warburton’s retirement has allowed Navidi to shine more often for Wales, and at 28 years old, he is just moving into his prime.

With Taulupe Faletau, the Lions No 8, out of the World Cup through injury, Ross Moriarty and Justin Tipuric are the other Welsh loose forwards heading to Japan contending for starting spots.

Once Navidi recovers from a nasty dislocated elbow, his flowing dreadlocks could yet standout above them all.

One of the best loosehead props in the game – if not the best. Scrummage, carry, offload, tackle, step, he does it all. And in a break from modern trends, he often plays 80 minutes too, though does have the odd brain explosion discipline wise.

Unfortunately for Eddie Jones, Vunipola is short of match fitness as he makes his way back from a serious hamstring injury after detaching the muscle from the bone while helping Saracens to European Cup glory in May. His initial, projected three-month recovery left little wriggle room to make the World Cup but Vunipola’s England comeback started against Ireland at Twickenham on August 24. After spending the first two weeks of his recovery bedridden, Vunipola is now at his lowest weight since the tour of Australia in 2016. “In terms of body weight I’m near enough the lightest I’ve ever been,” he told the Guardian recently.

“I feel good about that but match fitness is something different.”

IRELAND, WING/FULLBACK

WALES, LOOSE FORWARD

ENGLAND, PROP

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 21

of the North

4 5 6

Billy Vunipola

Finn Russell

Tadhg Furlong

When England produced their best performance in two years, travelling to Dublin to burst Ireland’s bubble in the opening Six Nations match in February, they did so with a ruthless, physical onslaught and a tactically supreme kicking game.

In that mood England are difficult to stop.

Billy Vunipola, who scored the match winning-try in the Champions Cup final by powering off the back of the scrum to cross between the posts, laid the platform in Dublin, with brother Mako also influential. Throw Manu Tuilagi the mix, and you have England’s Three Musketeers.

Jones needs all three fit and firing to ignite England’s hopes of World Cup progression.

In peak condition the Vunipola brothers completely change the dynamic of the England pack. They bring punch over the advantage line, which offers playmakers time, space, and the ability to use deception.

Trouble is in the English game, few athletes are ever in peak condition. Vunipola broke his arm three times last year – the same one twice – and has also struggled with shoulder and knee issues.

Keep an eye out for former Hurricanes loose forward/lock Blade Thomson, impressive flanker Hamish Watson, and elusive fullback Stuart Hogg.

But if you’re seeking highlight compilations, look no further than the gifted Russell.

Few players in world rugby have the confidence and skill to change the course of a match.

Russell is one of those talents.

In the final round of the Six Nations Scotland were down 31-0 in as many minutes at Twickenham.

By halftime, the game seemed destined for an embarrassing rout, until Russell worked his magic.

In apparent defiance of coach Gregor Townsend’s instructions to kick for territory, Russell went on the attack, scoring one of his favoured intercept tries and laying on two others in a man of the match performance that pushed England to the brink, the match eventually finishing in a bonkers 38-all draw.

Russell bizarrely missed the original Lions squad that toured New Zealand two years ago – later called up as a replacement. But he is undoubtedly one of Europe’s best playmakers.

These days leading Racing 92 in Paris, where he filled Dan Carter’s void, Russell is criticised at times for not always delivering commanding, controlling performances, the kind that dictate terms with boot and through sleight of hand.

Japan’s hard and fast tracks conditions should suit his inherent, attacking strengths, though.

Russell is quick and instinctive; his vision and passing variety leaving even the best defences flummoxed.

When Russell is on, Scotland are genuinely capable of upsetting anyone.

The world’s best tighthead prop is much more than simply a strong scrummager.

Footage of Furlong playing Gaelic Football as a teenager goes some way to explaining the big man’s range of skills.

In the clip, believed to be from his local GAA club in Wexford, Furlong flicks the oval ball up off his boot and palms it off to a teammate – all while running at full pace.

These days it is not uncommon for the 26-year-old to roam the edge and offload the tackle.

Furlong’s immense impact at test – with Ireland and the Lions – and domestic level over the last four years could be attributed to his obsession with potatoes.

According to the Leinster nutritionist, Furlong consumes anywhere between six to ten spuds per day.

“So then I have to say ‘Tadhg, you’re having too many potatoes’,” Leinster nutritionist Daniel Davey said. “You can do that the day of a game because potatoes are a good source of energy, but days you’re sitting on the couch, you’re not going to need ten spuds.”

A typical down-to-earth country lad, Furlong has formed a formidable front row combination with loosehead Cian Healy and veteran hooker Rory Best, set to finish with Ireland after the global showpiece.

Anyone who bumps off Owen Franks, Brodie Retallick and Kieran Read in the same movement deserves respect. Up the guts, on the edge, or in the scrum, Furlong is pivotal to Ireland’s hopes.

ENGLAND, NO 8

SCOTLAND, FIRST FIVE-EIGHTH

IRELAND, PROP

22 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

2

AT THE WORLD CUP

3

The number of es World Cup titles the All Blacks have won (1987,, 2011 and 2015).

36

145 Japan had no answer to the All Blacks onslaught in 1995 when they were thumped 145-17, a World Cup record. New Zealand have cracked the century twice more, with a 108-13 win over Portugal in 2007 and 101-3 victory over Italy in 1999.

6

The All Blacks have lost only six World Cup matches (two each to France, South Africa and Australia) but only five that matter. They were beaten 22-18 by South Africa in the third and fourth playoff at the 1999 tournament — the game no one wants to play — after their bitterly disappointing 43-31 defeat to France in the semifinal.

Steve Hansen will join Sir Graham Henry (2007, 2011) as the second person to go to the World Cup twice as head coach of the All Blacks. John Hart infamously cocoached with Alex Wylie in 1991 — that didn’t go very well — before taking the reins in 1999.

45 & 6 Simon Culhane scored 45 points (20 conversions, one try) in that Japan match in 1995 and Marc Ellis touched down for a record six tries

88%

20

New Zealand have won 88 per cent of their 50 World Cup matches

Brad Thorn was the oldest player to take part in a World Cup final — he was 36 years, 262 days when he played against France in 2011 — Keven Mealamu was 36 years and 225 days old when he took the field in the 2015 final.

0 The All Blacks Al have ha held a team scoreless only once, when they beat Scotland 40-0 in 2007.

South Africa hold the record for the most times they have kept opposition scoreless with four.

Jonah was just 20 years, 43 days when he took on South Africa in 1995 — the youngest person to play in a final.

15

All Blacks great Jonah Lomu was a phenomenon at the 1995 tournament in South Africa, scoring eight tries (the equal highest with Springbok Bryan Habana at a single tournament). He also holds the record for the most tries at World Cups with 15 (also tied with Habana).

BEN SMITH

JORDIE BARRETT

Outside back

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 24 Ht/Wt: 1.86m, 96kg Debut: 2018 v Japan World Cups: In three words: Over troubled Aucklander.

Bio: Proved his place in the squad with an impressive performance against the Wallabies at Eden Park.

Brings speed and a strong work ethic.

GEORGE BRIDGE

Super Rugby: Hurricanes Age: 22 Ht/Wt: 1.96m, 96kg Debut: 2017 v Samoa World Cups: In three words: Family fullback fight.

Bio: Has struggled to break into the starting lineup this year but remains a valuable utility with the ability to produce breakout moments in matches.

PICTURE / GREG BOWKER

Outside back

Wing Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 22 Ht/Wt: 1.79m, 87kg Debut: 2019 v Argentina World Cups: In three words: Right and wrong.

Bio: Aggressive winger with pace and strength. Makes and takes tries. A real chance to be a starter at the World Cup after also producing a strong game against the Wallabies in Auckland.

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

PICTURE / JASON OXENHAM

Outside back Super Rugby: Highlanders Age: 33 Ht/Wt: 1.86m, 94kg Debut: 2009 v Italy World Cups: 2015 In three words: Fan favourite fading?

Bio: The veteran has been ever-reliable since making his test debut in 2009 but form has slipped this year ahead of his final tournament in black.

SEVU REECE

All Blacks profiles

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 23

RIEKO IOANE

ANTON LIENERT-BROWN

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 24 Ht/Wt: 1.87m, 100kg Debut: 2018 v France World Cups: In three words: Mastered his trade.

Bio: The young Crusader has impressed in his limited chances for the All Blacks.

Another imposing option in the midfield with a strong defensive game.

JACK GOODHUE

Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 24 Ht/Wt: 1.85m, 96kg Debut: 2016 v Australia World Cups: In three words: Ascending Lithe Back.

Bio: Used mostly off the bench for the All Blacks since his debut in 2016 but earned a starting spot at both second-five and centre this season.

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

Midfield

Midfield

Midfield Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 30 Ht/Wt: 1.81m, 96kg Debut: 2013 v Australia World Cups: In three words: Hansen’s Indispensable All-rounder.

Bio: Reliable veteran in the midfield with more than 40 tests to his name. Shouldn’t disappoint if called upon in a big game.

PICTURE / GREG BOWKER

Wing Super Rugby: Blues Age: 22 Ht/Wt: 1.89m, 103kg Debut: 2016 v Italy World Cups: In three words: Wonder wing wondering.

Bio: The All Blacks breakout star since the 2015 World Cup. Ioane is a reliable finisher on the wing with a try-scoring rate that is up there with the greats in the game.

PICTURE / MARK MITCHELL

All Blacks profiles

24 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

RYAN CROTTY

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 25

SONNY BILL WILLIAMS

First five-eighth

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 22 Ht/Wt: 1.76m, 88kg Debut: 2018 v France World Cups: In three words: One last ten.

Bio: Has been given the keys to drive the All Blacks backline this year and has rarely put a foot wrong. Status at World Cup will depend on whether selectors persist with playing Beauden Barrett at fullback.

RICHIE MO’UNGA

Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 28 Ht/Wt: 1.72m, 75kg Debut: 2015 v Samoa World Cups: In three words: New age veteran.

Bio: All Blacks selectors would have found Weber hard to ignore after a standout Super Rugby season for the Chiefs. The best option of an untested bunch of thirdchoice number nines.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Halfback

First five-eighth Super Rugby: Blues Age: 28 Ht/Wt: 1.87m, 91kg Debut: 2012 v Ireland World Cups: 2015 In three words: First five fallback.

Bio: World’s best number 10 who has been playing quite a bit of fullback of late. In any position he will provide a major concern for opposition at the World Cup.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Midfield Super Rugby: Blues Age: 33 Ht/Wt: 1.97m, 111kg Debut: 2010 v England World Cups: 2011, 2015 In three words: Slow But Wonderful.

Bio: The only player to take the field in every New Zealand victory at the last two World Cups, SBW has struggled with injuries of late but still provides an imposing figure in the midfield.

BRAD WEBER

BEAUDEN BARRETT

26 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

HOW LUKE JACOBSON BECAME THE NEXT ALL BLACKS BOLTER

By Christopher Reive

W

hen Luke Jacobson was named in the All Blacks’ Rugby Championship squad in July, he was quick to admit he was simply happy to be a part of the team.

His enthusiasm must have paid off on the training pitch, with the Chiefs loose forward being a surprise inclusion in the All Blacks’ 31-man World Cup squad named on August 28.

Jacobson was sitting alone in his Hamilton flat watching the televised squad announcement with hope but no inkling as to whether or not his name would be called out.

As the squad was named in alphabetical order, he began working out where his name might be called. After Rieko Ioane’s name was announced, Jacobson got a once in a lifetime thrill.

“I’m on top of the moon,” he said of being selected.

“I didn’t back myself but I didn’t write myself off either … I felt I had done the best I thought I could do so I was happy with that. Even if I did miss out it was ‘alright, it wasn’t because I didn’t put out my best effort’. I was real nervous this morning and last night as I thought any little buzz on my phone I was pretty scared of looking at.

“There were a few fist pumps going around. There were a few things said to nobody.”

Jacobson was the eventual beneficiary of Liam Squire ruling himself out of contention for the Rugby Championship and coming to an agreement with Steve Hansen that he would only be available for the World Cup as an injury replacement option.

Hansen addressed Squire’s position after the squad was named and, although he wouldn’t go into specifics, said it was a decision he and Squire reached together.

“We had a phone call, a really good phone call actually, and discussed things. Whilst Liam is playing really well for Tasman and really enjoying his rugby, at the conclusion of the conversation it was agreed that he would make himself available if we required him as a replacement.”

With the agreement reached

with Squire, Hansen said Jacobson was selected ahead of more experienced players Jackson Hemopo and Vaea Fifita because of what he brought to the pitch.

“If you’re good enough you should be available for selection.

He’s a former under-20s captain so he’s got good leadership skills, defensively he’s one of the best hitters in the game, he’s a good ball carrier, and he’s just a smart rugby player,” Hansen said.

“It came down to Vaea and Jackson then competing with Luke … and we just felt that Luke brought a little bit more than the other two to that position.”

“If you’re good enough you should be available for selection. He’s a former under-20s captain so he’s got good leadership skills, defensively he’s one of the best hitters in the game, he’s a good ball carrier, and he’s just a smart rugby player” All Blacks coach Steve Hansen

His hard-nosed style of play does come with its downfalls, as the 22-year-old has been nursing a concussion recently after picking up a head knock while training.

However, after a dominant performance in the National Provincial Championship against Counties Manukau last month, Jacobson said he was confident any lingering effects of the most recent knock were well behind him.

“I just had a little bit of a setback but bounced back to normal pretty fast. I’m feeling good as gold now, no worries.

“I’m really excited by the opportunity and to have eight weeks together with the team you’re going to form some pretty close friendships, I’m going to be learning heaps in training, I’m locked in for eight weeks so I’ll be in there training with the best … well, hopefully eight weeks.

“Any little chance I get I’ll be going 100 per cent.”

2019 SUPER RUGBY STATS Games: 8 Tries: 2 Tackles: 102 Missed tackles: 9 Runs: 54 Line breaks: 4 Offloads: 9

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 27

TJ PERENARA

AARON SMITH

Loose forward

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 31 Ht/Wt: 1.85m, 105kg Debut: 2013 v France World Cups: In three words: Scavenger’s final crumbs.

Bio: A dedicated openside flanker, ultimate team performer from the Crusaders’ school of excellence. If the top guns remain fit, he will stay in the shadows. But despite a lack of versatility, his character, technique and reliability are made for the World Cup.

MATT TODD

Super Rugby: Highlanders Age: 30 Ht/Wt: 1.71m, 83kg Debut: 2012 v Ireland World Cups: 2015 In three words: Passer not passé.

Bio: The number one halfback since his debut in 2012, Smith has almost 90 tests to his name but still brings dynamism, speed and relentlessness to the position.

PICTURE / GREG BOWKER

Halfback

Loose forward Super Rugby: Hurricanes Age: 25 Ht/Wt: 1.88m, 100kg Debut: 2016 v Wales World Cups: In three words: Hyped hyper hybrid.

Bio: Recent events paint him as a blindside flanker, but the selectors have talked about using lock Scott Barrett in that role. Savea’s intended World Cup spot is unclear but outstanding tests against Australia and Tonga suggest he should start.

PICTURE / JASAON OXENHAM

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

Halfback Super Rugby: Hurricanes Age: 27 Ht/Wt: 1.84m, 90kg Debut: 2014 v England World Cups: 2015 In three words: Big match closer.

Bio: The perennial back-up to Smith but ever a reliable option at halfback.

ARDIE SAVEA

All Blacks profiles

E27

nzherald.co.nz | The New Zealand Herald | Saturday, September 14, 2019

KIERAN READ

SAM CANE

Loose forward Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 22 Ht/Wt: 1.91m, 107kg Debut: 2019 v Argentina World Cups: In three words: Dream debut season.

Bio: A very physical defender and a rated ball-carrier, Jacobson was probably the surprise pick in the World Cup squad after making his debut in Buenos Aires in July.

LUKE JACOBSON

Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 27 Ht/Wt: 1.89m, 106kg Debut: 2012 v Ireland World Cups: 2015 In three words: It’s a miracle.

Bio: Cane has taken the No 7 role in a new direction, a muscular re-working of a position which has featured some of the most celebrated All Blacks. Terrific respect rather than awe remains his destiny although his comeback from a dreadful neck injury deserves better than that.

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

Loose forward

Prop Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 29 Ht/Wt: 1.94m, 128kg Debut: 2018 v Argentina World Cups: In three words: New running order.

Bio: If Laulala starts, Ta’avao’s tremendous athleticism gives him every chance of being included on the bench. May no longer be seen as capable of propping on both sides in major matches though.

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

PICTURE / BRETT PHIBBS

Loose forward Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 33 Ht/Wt: 1.93m, 111kg Debut: 2008 v Scotland World Cups: 2011, 2015 In three words: Back operating again.

Bio: While not at his legendary best, Read showed extremely encouraging signs in the Bledisloe Cup after a gradual comeback from back surgery. His mana, set piece expertise and willingness to do the hard yards are absolutely vital to All Black hopes.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

All Blacks profiles

28 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

ANGUS TA’AVAO

BRODIE RETALLICK

SAM WHITELOCK

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 30 Ht/Wt: 2.02m, 116kg Debut: 2010 v Ireland World Cups: 2011, 2015 In three words: Third time lock.

Bio: The legendary locking duo of Whitelock and Retallick has been central to an All Black era of dominance which has just begun to fade. They bring out the best in each other, but have not always been in peak condition of late.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 28 Ht/Wt: 2.04m, 123kg Debut: 2012 v Ireland World Cups: 2015 In three words: Get well soon.

Bio: Fitness will be a question after dislocating his shoulder against the Springboks but has always been one of the first players on a team sheet for the All Blacks.

An imposing figure with a unique skillset rarely seen at the position.

Lock

Lock

Lock

Super Rugby: Blues Age: 26 Ht/Wt: 1.98m, 120kg Debut: 2014 v England World Cups: In three words: Power back on.

Bio: His athleticism and strength is made for modern rugby warfare but he’s only just started to win selector and public confidence. Has trimmed, looks fitter. But will he produce the goods if required against the power packs of England, South Arica etc?

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 25 Ht/Wt: 1.97m, 112kg Debut: 2016 v Ireland World Cups: In three words: Locked at loosie?

Bio: A rising star until he hit form and red card speed bump against the Wallabies.

Constantly mentioned as a blindisde option - might even get a start in the No 6 in Japan. Still second fiddle if Retallick and Whitelock are tiring.

PATRICK TUIPULOTU

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Glengarry Spirits is a stand-alone store in which you can immerse yourself in the world of premium spirits within a speciallycrafted space catering solely to this genre. For those not in the neighbourhood or with a preference for shopping online go to www.glengarry.co.nz with delivery available nationwide.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Lock

SCOTT BARRETT

All Blacks profiles

RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL | 14.09.2019 | 29

LIAM COLTMAN

NEPO LAULALA

Prop Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 24 Ht/Wt: 1.89m, 127kg Debut: 2019 v Argentina World Cups: In three words: Another Chiefs prop.

Bio: A non-playing “apprentice” for 2017 Rugby Championship was his first taste of the All Blacks before making his debut against a France XV. Suffered a horrific leg injury last season before returning back with force this year.

ATU MOLI

Prop Super Rugby: Chiefs Age: 27 Ht/Wt: 1.84m, 116kg Debut: 2015 v Samoa World Cups: In three words: Timely late charge.

Bio: Laulala has stormed into the tighthead role owned by Owen Franks for so long after devastating scrum work against the Aussies at Eden Park.

He offers a bit more with the ball than Owen Franks which is why the veteran missed out.

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Super Rugby: Highlanders Age: 29 Ht/Wt: 1.86m, 109kg Debut: 2016 v Italy World Cups: 2015 In three words: Turnover new leaf.

Bio: Coltman’s long apprenticeship matured in the nick of time, encouraging the selectors to abandon their mysterious fascination with Nathan Harris. Coltman is a master at winning turn overs, but remains unproven at the top level.

Prop Super Rugby: Blues Age: 27 Ht/Wt: 1.95m, 129kg Debut: 2016 v Wales World Cups: 2011, 2015 In three words: Three to one.

Bio: The former back-up tighthead has switched to becoming Moody’s understudy, while remaining the prop most adept at scrummaging on both sides. He is a strong, driving defender and capable of beefy ball running.

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

PICTURE / BRETT PHIBBS

Hooker

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

All Blacks profiles

30 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

OFA TUUNGAFASI

JOE MOODY

Prop

PICTURE / BRETT PHIBBS

Hooker

Hooker

Super Rugby: Hurricanes Age: 32 Ht/Wt: 1.84m, 108kg Debut: 2012 v Scotland World Cups: 2015 In three words: Brilliant but bolshie.

Bio: After a long and slightly mysterious injury absence, Coles is hitting some of his best form, to the point of reclaiming the No 2 jersey from Codie Taylor who was so impressive in 2018. Coles has a rare x-factor and is a clever operator in wide channels.

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 29 Ht/Wt: 1.86m, 109kg Debut: 2016 v Italy World Cups: In three words: Top two too.

Bio: Not quite at his 2018 level and shaded a little by Coles’ impressive return, but he remains a quality test operator. Showed he can handle a huge workload last year, a potentially vital World Cup ingredient.

DANE COLES

PICTURE / BRETT PHIBBS

PICTURE / PHOTOSPORT

PICTURE / GETTY IMAGES

Super Rugby: Crusaders Age: 31 Ht/Wt: 1.89m, 127kg Debut: 2014 v Australia World Cups: 2015 In three words: Extraordinary Joe needed.

Bio: Loosehead Moody has become the senior prop with Owen Franks missing World Cup selection.

The All Blacks will desperately hope he finds his best ball running and keeps out of card trouble from the referees. Moody is just about guaranteed to start the big games.

CODIE TAYLOR

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opinion

32 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

THE GHOSTS OF RUGBY WORLD CUPS PAST

Phil Gifford reminisces on more than 30 years of All Blacks World Cup fortunes

I

n the press centre at Ellis Park before the 1995 Rugby World Cup final I catch up with Dan Retief, who on the 1981 Springbok tour of New Zealand was a charming, living oxymoron, a liberal South African rugby reporter.

We swap stories. He’s been living through much more fascinating times than I have. “I don’t mind telling you, when Mandela was elected, I cried like a baby. He’s our hope for the future.”

Then he motions me closer. “Do you remember the plane at Eden Park in 81?” An antitour protester, Marx Jones, had flown a Cessna back and forth over Eden Park while his friend threw flour bombs onto the pitch during the final test of the apartheid era Springbok tour. I certainly remember the plane.

“I tell you Phil, something will happen today that will make Eden Park look like chickenfeed.”

Dan is calling the game live, so he heads to his broadcast spot, next to the print media benches where I sit. We all wheel round when the capacity crowd starts roaring. In the official section Nelson Mandela appears, smiling and waving, while wearing South African captain Francois Pienaar’s Springbok jersey.

Pretty impressive, but not quite as dramatic as Eden Park 81.

Then, out of the clear blue African sky comes a weird sound, almost pure white noise, getting louder and louder. Because the high veldt winter is so dry the stands at Ellis Park are virtually uncovered.

So when a South African Airways 747 jet bursts over the top of the stand opposite us, clearing the upper deck by just 60 metres, it feels as if the world is one giant wind tunnel. On the under carriage are the words “Good Luck Bokke”.

When a jumbo jet flies that low over a rugby stadium (the pilot later says he had the plane close to stalling to get down to the altitude he wanted, which suggests with one windshear, 62,000 people could have fried in aviation fuel) the shadow it casts is so vast that for a second the whole ground goes dark. As our ringing ears start to clear I hear one voice cutting through the buzz. It’s Dan. “I TOLD you it’d be bigger than Eden Park.”

The World Cup has been a part of my working life every four years since the first tournament in May, 1987. In 87 I was part of the breakfast show at Radio Hauraki. The stock market crash was still five months away. Money was washing around the city, and if you caught Michael Fay’s eye at the right time in Club Mirage you might find a bottle of Moet appearing at your table. But few were popping corks for the first World Cup. At that opening game at Eden Park when the All Blacks demolished Italy 70-6, the stadium was less than half full, just 20,000 people.

The hype we expect now was almost nonexistent. The profit from the 2015 World Cup was $90 million. A sponsorship deal for the 87 Cup of $7m, which just kept the tournament out of the red, was signed only a couple of months before kick-off. The budget for the opening ceremony

was zero.

The 87 All Blacks’ place in rugby history was secured by victory. Less publicised is that they were the first, and I’d bet good money, the last, All Blacks to be billeted in private homes.

Their second game was in Wellington, where they beat Fiji, 74-13. Afterwards they trooped on to a bus, and were driven 90 minutes north to Pirinoa in the Wairarapa.

Coach Brian Lochore didn’t make his reasoning public. But privately he’d been horrified to see how some of his players chose to change out of All Black gear when they left the sanctuary of the Poenamo hotel on the North Shore. The wounds of 81 had been opened by the unsanctioned Cavaliers tour of South Africa in 1986.

“The players were afraid of being abused

“I tell you P hil, somethin g will happen today that w ill make Eden Park look li ke chickenfeed .” or accosted, which is what the All Blacks had suffered through the early 80s. People would come and stand right in front of you and abuse the hell out of you.”

He decided it was time for his men to feel the love in the heartland. At the local Tuhirangi Rugby Club, they were paired off like kids on a school trip, and assigned farmers as hosts.

City boys like John Kirwan were nervous. A few weeks later, when we worked on a World Cup book, he joked, “You couldn’t see a street light or a McDonalds for miles.”

But the night away largely served the late Lochore’s purpose. The players made their own decisions on how they’d use their time. Kirwan slept in until 11am. Bruce Deans hot-wired a tractor he and Joe Stanley found on an early morning jog, and Deans took a nervous Stanley on a diesel fumed joy-ride. AJ Whetton lost it in a farm bike race with Richard Loe, took a tumble,

and landed in a pile of cow dung.

Everything changed for the final against France at Eden Park. The indifference before the opening game with Italy was a distant memory.

Wide-eyed All Blacks were talking about offers of $1000 for a stand seat.

Eden Park sold out, and the All Blacks won 29-9, scoring three tries, which was more than a winning side would score in a Cup final until 2015, when the winning All Blacks also scored three.

The warm glow of success, and the emergence of clean cut stars like Kirwan and Michael Jones, made the All Blacks the universal heroes they had been before an apartheid era tour had divided the country.

In 1991 most Kiwis expected the All Blacks to waltz wa to victory when the Cup was held in Britain, Ireland, and France.

Ir I knew from working on a book with Alex Wyllie that the All Black leadership was Wy hopelessly divided. Wyllie and John Hart, in ho possibly the dumbest move ever made by the po NZRU, had been made co-coaches. Having two alpha males sharing the job was bad enough, but genuine dislike was added to the mix as well.

Wyllie invited us to have a drink in the team’s hotel after the All Blacks won their second game at the Cup, beating the United States in Gloucester 46-6. On one side of the room the players who support Hart. On the other, the Wyllie camp.

On the Saturday morning before the Sunday semifinal with Australia, my wife Jan and I were in the usual throng of shoppers in Grafton St, Dublin. Over the rise appeared the full Australian team. Captain Nick Farr-Jones stopped briefly to talk. “What are you guys doing?” I asked. He grinned. “Just making sure the Irish fans are barracking for us tomorrow mate.”

Vincent Hogan in the Irish Independent says it is “amazing to us all just how friendly and inviting the Wallabies were during their whole time in Dublin.” But he doesn’t think much of the All Blacks; “They carry themselves with the gaiety of gravediggers. They strut and scowl and generally imply a superior presence. It is as though, in their ho hostile silence, they are reminding you that God st wears a black shirt. A pity.” still The All Blacks lost 16-6, and in Ireland, where they love the All Blacks, you couldn’t find a shred of sympathy.

I almost missed the 1995 Cup. By now working at 91ZM in Christchurch, it was decided after the amazing 45-29 thrashing of En England in the semifinal that I could go to the final. th Three days before that match between the All Bl Blacks and South Africa, I was in the lobby of the All Blacks’ Johannesburg hotel.

Al In the midst of the five star cool was a group of girls from a nearby private school, who could barely contain their excitement. One of their ba pa parents had enough pull to get them through the gu guarded entranceway.

As an All Black team meeting on the ground floo broke up, players started to saunter out, floor th a huge Polynesian, with an “11” shaved into then his left eyebrow, emerged — Jonah Lomu.

One tiny girl, faster than her classmates, exploded across the foyer, launched herself into the air, and locked her legs around Lomu’s midriff. Lomu hardly blinked, but, like a skilled hostage negotiator, quietly talked her down. With great dignity, he carefully prised her limbs away.

A series of quick photographs and then, as much as is possible for a giant man amongst a throng of small girls, he gently slipped away to a lift.

The day after the final, lost 15-12 in extra time, I broadcast to ZM in Christchurch from All Black Mike Brewer’s room. Lochore, campaign manager in 95, has told me 10 of the All Black side who started the final had been ill with a stomach bug before the game. It explained some of the weird sights during the match, like Jeff Wilson on his hands and knees violently throwing up.

In 1999 the World Cup moved to Britain and France. Two days before the semifinal between the All Blacks and a French team that has been easily the most mediocre of the four teams left in the tournament, a special edition of a TVNZ show, The Tight Five, was being taped at the Thames television studios in Teddington, London. I was one of the guests, and former

All Black Simon Mannix, now playing for the Gloucester club in England, another.

Mannix told a group of us off air that Philippe Saint-Andre, the former French captain, now with Mannix at Gloucester, said the French players had delivered an ultimatum to the coaching staff. The coaches could stay at the hotel, travel on the bus, and go to the training runs. But they must offer no advice. Control of the side was now 100 per cent in the hands of the players. I shrugged the story off. Silly me. At Twickenham the French team played like the fearless rebels they apparently were. The All Blacks were beaten 43-31.

Anxiety ran rife among Kiwis over the All Blacks’ chances in the World Cup in Australia in 2003.

In Melbourne for Radio Sport, I bumped into Grant Fox, then commentating for TVNZ. Before the quarter-final with South Africa, he told me, he’d headed out for a 30-minute morning walk by the Yarra River. The walk took 90 minutes, because so many New Zealanders had sought him out for reassurance.

Back home at the TAB, 68 per cent of the bets were on the Springboks to win. In reality the game at the Telstra Dome was almost embarrassingly one sided. South Africa was beaten 29-9. The All Blacks, and we camp followers, moved to Sydney for the semifinal with Australia.

There was an unusual moment the day before the semi. Tana Umaga, by 2003 a critical part of the All Black backline at centre, had, after suffering a cruciate ligament knee injury in the opening game against Italy, been passed fit to play by team doctor, John Mayhew. Not fit enough for coach John Mitchell however, who had been increasingly snippy during the week about the fact he hadn’t picked Umaga.

In a Sydney toy shop, Jan and I saw Tana and his wife, Rochelle. We said hello, and, purely as a greeting, not as a real question, I said, “How are you?” He smiled broadly and replied, “I’m absolutely fine.”

The next day Australia never really looked like losing, winning 22-10. They would play (and lose 20-17 to) England in the final.

There was not much fun left to be had for an All Black supporter.

All seemed to be going so well for the All Blacks at the 2007 World Cup, in France and Britain. Two days before the quarter-final against France in Cardiff they held a press conference at Hensol Park Hotel, a spa and golf resort 19km out of the city.

In a large pagoda in the grounds, the All Blacks answered questions from a massive group of journalists. The players seemed completely at ease. Wandering out from his session, Jerry Collins saw Jan sitting on a bench, joined her and for 10 minutes chatted about home, family, and life lived in hotels. The fiercest tackler in world rugby, who tragically was to die in a car accident in France in 2015, won a fan forever.

In the press box at the quarter-final, when the All Blacks lost to France 20-18, was the only time in my life I have believed I was possibly having a stroke. No matter how long the second half dragged on, with referee Wayne Barnes giving no penalties, and the All Blacks behind, I still believed it was impossible for an All Black side to be beaten in a quarter-final. Then Tony Smith, the Christchurch journalist I was sitting next to, leaned in and whispers “We’re going to lose.” My arms went numb. I tried to lift them to my laptop, but nothing happened.

When the Cup came back to New Zealand in 2011 almost everything — with the exception of the All Blacks again being favourites — had changed from the first tournament in 1987.

There were some curled lips about the catchphrase “A stadium of four million” before the tournament, but from the time the Tongan community jammed all lanes on George Bolt Drive to welcome their team at Auckland airport, the cynics were proved wrong. Then, to make it all perfect for a Kiwi fan, as Sir Graham Henry can now laugh and say, the All Blacks “thrashed the French by one point in the final”.

I’d been a Steve Hansen fan for a long time before the 2015 World Cup in England and Wales.

When I first met him, in 1996 in Christchurch, he was the assistant coach of the High School Old Boys’ club team. His career expanded, but his head didn’t. Hansen is definitely high on the list of All Black coaches you’d enjoy sharing an off the record drink with.

Before the stunning 62-13 win against France in the quarter-final in Cardiff the All Blacks held a press conference at the Swansea Rugby Club.

Hansen got a little Zen on it all. He knew people back home were worried, but that’s because they’re weren’t here, seeing how their boys were training. “Worry is a wasted emotion.”

For a brief moment after the conference we found ourselves face to face behind the stage. We shook hands and I said, because it was true, “It’s been a lot of fun.” Hansen smiled and said: “Not much point if it’s not is it?”

The final against Australia at Twickenham was played in amazingly warm, dry weather for England on the last Saturday in October. After the game players were marshalled by media minders to chat with pods of journalists. It was almost the perfect touch for an All Black side that was as amicable as the original Cup heroes were in 87, that when Nehe Milner-Skudder joins a media group, his first instinct is to stick out his hand and say, “Hi, how are you”, to each of us.

My favourite Cup story was one Wallaby icon John Eales told of the 1991 final won by the Wallabies, 12-3, over England at Twickenham.

The president of the Australian union was Joe French from Queensland, a lovely, funny, chain-smoking, Kermit the Frog lookalike. The Wallabies discovered he was going to be sitting in the Royal Box, next to Princess Diana.

With the game over, French, desperately sucking on a cigarette (the Royal enclosure was smoke-free), was bailed up in the changing shed by eager Diana fans in the Wallaby team.

“What’s she like?” they asked. French sucked in another lungful of smoke, and rasped, “Well I can tell ya one thing. She knows f*** all about rugby.”

opinion

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FORMORE INFO Z S.N ET J ER HT G I F W. WW 7 73 32 7 1 02 P:

Japan 2019

34 | 14.09.2019 | RUGBY WORLD CUP SPECIAL

World Cup venues 1 Sapporo Dome

2 Kamaishi Recovery Memorial Stadium

3 Kumagaya Rugby Stadium

4 City of Toyota Stadium

Sapporo City Capacity: 41,410 Matches: Pool games - Australia v Fji, England v Tonga.

Iwate Prefecture, Kamaishi City Capacity: 16,334 Matches: Pool games - Fiji v Uruguay, Namibia v Canada.

Toyota City Capacity: 45,000 Matches: Pool games - Wales v Georgia, South Africa v Namibia, Japan v Samoa, New Zealand v Italy.

Saitama Prefecture, Kumagaya City Capacity: 25,600 Matches: Pool games - Russia v Samoa, Georgia v Uruguay, Argentina v USA.

5 Tokyo Stadium

Tokyo Capacity: 49,970 Matches: Pool games - Japan v Russia, France v Argentina, Australia v Wales, England v Argentina, New Zealand v Namibia. Knockout games - Quarter-final 2, Quarter-final 4, Bronze final.

1

6 International Stadium Yokohama

Yokohama City Capacity: 72,327 Matches: Pool games - New Zealand v South Africa, Ireland v Scotland, England v France, Japan v Scotland.

Knockout games - Semifinal 1, Semifinal 2, Final.

7 Shizuoka Stadium Ecopa

Shizuoka Prefecture Capacity: 50,889 Matches: Pool games - Japan v Ireland, South Africa v Italy, Scotland v Russia, Australia v Georgia.

2

8 Hanazono Rugby Stadium

Higashi-Osaka City Capacity: 24,000 Matches: Pool games - Italy v Namibia, Argentina v Tonga, Georgia v Fiji, USA v Tonga.

9 Kobe Misaki Stadium

Kobe City Capacity: 30,132 Matches: Pool games - England v USA, Scotland v Samoa, Ireland v Russia, South Africa v Canada.

3 4 5

7 9

8

6

10 11 12

10 Fukuoka Hakatanomori Stadium Fukuoka City Capacity: 21,562 Matches: Pool games - Italy v Canada, France v USA, Ireland v Samoa.

11Oita Stadium

Oita Prefecture Capacity: 40,000 Matches: Pool games - New Zealand v Canada, Australia v Uruguay, Wales v Fiji.

Knockout games: Quarter-final 1, Quarter-final 3.

12 Kumamoto Stadium

Kumamoto City Capacity: 30,228 Matches: Pool games - France v Tonga, Wales v Uruguay.

QUIZ

RUGB RU RUGBY GBY GB Y WORLD WORL WO RLD RL D CU CUP P SP SPEC SPECIAL ECIA EC IAL IA L | 14 14.0 14.09.2019 .09. .0 9.20 9.

2019 20 19 | 35

1

The All Blacks played which side in the opening game of the 1987 Rugby World Cup? A) Fiji B) Argentina C) France D) Italy

17

2

18

Australia beat Ireland in their 1991 quarter-final after a last minute try to which player?

A) David Campese B) Michael Lynagh C) Tim Horan D) Phil Kearns

How many tries were scored in the 1995 World Cup final?

A) None B) 1 C) 2 D) 3

Which player was the top points scorer at the 2011 World Cup? A) Morne Steyn B) Piri Weepu C) Vincent Clerc D) James O’Connor

19

Who is the oldest person to have played at a World Cup? B) Diego Ormaechea A) Brad Thorn C) Neil Back D) Victor Matfield

20 France lost how many matches at the 2011 Rugby World Cup? A) 1 B) 2 C) 3 D) 4

4

Other than South Africa, which other nation made their debut at the 1995 Rugby World Cup? A) Zimbabwe B) Portugal C) Georgia D) Ivory Coast

5

Which team won the bronze final at the 2007 Rugby World Cup? A) Argentina B) France C) Scotland D) Fiji

6

Which team did not play at the 1987 Rugby World Cup? A) Zimbabwe B) Romania C) Tonga D) Samoa

7

England’s Jonny Wilkinson kicked how many dropped goals at the 2003 Rugby World Cup? A) 5 B) 6 C) 7 D) 8

8

Jonah Lomu finished the 1995 World Cup with how many tries?

A) 6 B) 7 C) 8 D) 9

9

New Zealand beat which side in the 1991 bronze final?

A) France B) England C) Wales D) Scotland

10

Which side eliminated Scotland from the 2015 World Cup? A) England B) Wales C) Australia D) South Africa

11

Namibia lost 1420 to which side during the 2003 World Cup? A) England B) New Zealand C) Australia D) South Africa

12

Western Samoa shocked which side in their opening match at the 1991 Rugby World Cup? A) Wales B) England C) Ireland D) Scotland

13

Which player has scored the most World Cup points?

A) Michael Lynagh B) Jonny Wilkinson C) Dan Carter D) Gavin Hastings

14

Which All Black was yellowcarded in the 2007 quarterfinal defeat against France?

A) Dan Carter B) Richie McCaw C) Luke McAlister D) Carl Hayman

15

Australia beat France by which scoreline in the 1999 World Cup final?

A) 12-6 B) 22-18 C) 30-6 D) 35-12

16

The All Blacks cracked a century against which side at the 2007 Rugby World Cup? A) Portugal B) Romania C) Italy D) Scotland

A

ANSWERS: 1 - D Italy (70-6), 2 A - None, 3 C - 3 (NZ, Tonga, NZ), 4 D - Ivory Coast, 5 A - Argentina (34-10 over France), 6 D - Samoa, 7 D - 8, 8 B - 7, 9 - D Scotland (13-6), 10 C Australia (35-34), 11 C - Australia, 12 A - Wales (16-13), 13 - B Jonny Wilkinson (277), 14 C - Luke McAlister, 15 D - 35-12, 16 A - Portugal (108-13), 17 - B Michael Lynagh, 18 – A Morne Steyn, 19 - B Diego Ormaechea (40 years, 26 days v South Africa, 1999), 20 - A Brighton Community Stadium.

3

At which ground did Japan stun South Africa in 2015?

A) Brighton Community Stadium B) Villa Park C) St. James’ Park D) Elland Road