We take a look at Pool D of the Rugby World Cup to be held in Japan starting this Friday.
The departure of backs coach Rob Howley is bound to affect the performance of the group favourites Wales. Howley has been sent home from the World Cup for an alleged breach of World Rugby’s laws covering betting and anti-corruption.
The 48-year-old’s departure comes just six days before Wales’ opening game against Georgia.
Stephen Jones, who was to have taken up the job after the World Cup, will now start on the task earlier than expected.
Wales and Australia were expected to be the main contenders in the pool. While the latest development is a big blow to the side, it is not expected to affect their chances of moving to the knockout stages.
The Welsh had ended a run of 13 straight defeat to Australia last year and would be looking to repeat the success in Japan. Australia are not without their problem’s either.
The two-time World Champions had to drop Israel Folau over his homophobic social media posts. However, Kurtley Beale,who was similarly embroiled in controversy before the last World Cup is expected to take over his place at the back. Beale was at the center of controversy in 2015 over a sexist text message to a female staff.
Despite concerns about is fitness, veteran David Pocock would be key to a strong performance from the Aussies.
Wales flanker Justin Tipuric is expected to be thorn to the Australian hopes once again. His contribution in the defeat of Australia last year was tremendous and he was named as the man of the match.
The run-up to the World Cup has not been the best for the Welsh side. Bitter rivals ended their 14-match winning streak last month. Although though the managed to avenge the defeat, they suffered two losses to Ireland heading into the World Cup.
The Wallabies would be hoping for all rounder Reece Hodge to strike form. The 25-year-old scored two tries in the defeat of the All Blacks at the Rugby Championships and is capable of turning the tide for his side.
While the top seem to have their knockout berths locked in, they can be troubled by Georgia. The Rugby Europe International Champions are renowned for their fearsome forward pack and would be hoping to catch their opponents off guard.
Fiji, with a number of players with Sevens experience would be looking for their speed on field to find success. They were unlucky to finish second behind Japan at the Pacific Nations Cup.
In Josua Tuisova and Ben Volavola they have the experience to guide their younger talented players. Fiji cannot be written off as they are capable of an upset. After all they did gun down France in Paris last year.
Uruguay, who were given a 7-68 lesson by Fiji late last year, are not expected to make much of an impact.
About Post Author
