Team talk: New Zealand
There are just 10 days to go so we’re going to use that time wisely and profile the top 10 teams competing for rugby’s ultimate prize. And who better to start with than tournament favourites New Zealand.
The world’s top-ranked team have been out on their own in recent years and it takes a leap of the imagination to picture anyone beating them in the Rugby World Cup.
Although Australia, France and South Africa have been growing in strength in the build-up to the big event, they will have to play well above themselves if they are to overcome the Kiwis.
The Kiwis will also be helped by a relatively easy Pool. Their opener against Italy on September 8 is followed by matches against new boys Portugal (September 15), Scotland (September 23), and Romania (September 29).
Of course, New Zealand were clear favourites last time out as well and it didn’t happen for them. But whatever happens, they are not going to be beaten easily.
NEW ZEALAND SQUAD: D. Carter, J. Collins, A. Ellis, N. Evans, C. Hayman, A. Hore, D. Howlett, C. Jack, B. Kelleher, S. Lauaki, B. Leonard, L. MacDonald, C. Masoe, A. Mauger, L. McAlister, R. McCaw, K. Mealamu, M. Muliaina, A. Oliver, K. Robinson, J. Rokocoko, C. Smith, R. So’oialo, G. Somerville, R. Thorne, N. Tialata, I. Toeava, S. Sivivatu, A. Williams, T. Woodcock.