RWC 2019 – COMPLETE – Pool D Preview

While Pool C might be the Rugby World Cup‘s ‘Pool of Death’, Pool D isn’t far behind. There are two clear favorites in Australia and Wales but Fiji are hot on their heels and Georgia are not inclined to be a stroll through the park in a cool breeze. Uruguay look destined to be at the bottom but ironically might be the most improved side since RWC 2015. On the surface this pool is predictable. That sets the perfect stage for an historic upset.

POOL D FIXTURES
Sat, Sept 21 – Australia vs Fiji – Sapporo Dome, Sapporo
Mon, Sept 23 – Wales vs Georgia – Toyota Stadium, Toyota
Wed, Sept 25 – Fiji vs Uruguay – Unosumai Stadium, Kamaishi
Sun, Sept 29 – Georgia vs Uruguay – Rugby Stadium, Kumagaya
Sun, Sept 29 – Australia vs Wales – Ajinomoto Stadium, Tokyo
Thurs, Oct 3 – Georgia vs Fiji – Hanazono Stadium, Osaka
Sat, Oct 5 – Australia vs Uruguay – Oita Stadium, Oita
Wed, Oct 9 – Wales vs Fiji – Oita Stadium, Oita
Fri, Oct 11 – Australia vs Georgia – ECOPA Stadium, Shizuoka
Sun, Oct 13 – Wales vs Uruguay – Egao Kenko Stadium, Kumamoto

The Wallabies have not been a good team since RWC 2015. Odd selection calls, off-field controversy, and a perceived lack of interest on the field has contributed to their losing record in that time period. It’s impossible to write them off, however, with their stunning shutout of New Zealand in the Rugby Championship a reminder that there is world class talent present when they feel like showing up. Convincing isn’t the right word for Australia. Confounding might be.

- Current Ranking: 6 (high 2, low 7)
- Test Record 2016-Present: 20-25-2
- Qualified: RWC 2015, 1st Pool A
- World Cups: 8 – Detailed History
- Best Finish: Champions (x2)

Head Coach: Michael Cheika (age 52, Australia, record 31-30-2) – Half genius, half raving lunatic. You won’t find a more entertaining subject on coach-cam. Cheika seems to understand how to make his team tick, but getting them to do that on a consistent basis has been a real problem. He also had a tendency to pick some questionable favorites, though that seems to have been ironed out now that he has a defined selection committee around him.

Captain: Michael Hooper (flanker, age 27, 95 caps) – An outstanding openside who plays right on the edge and sometimes takes it a step too far. Hooper can generally be found in the middle of everything. He’s not just a ‘lead by example’ type though, he does more than his fair share of talking. The back row balance will be a hot topic with another brilliant openside in David Pocock certain to start alongside him.

One to Watch: James O’Connor (center, age 29, 48 caps) – A decade ago he was a teenage sensation with the world at his feet. By the end of 2013 he effectively washed out of international rugby, his off-field behavior rendering him from future great to could-have-been. Six years in Europe seems to have straightened him out, and now he has reinvented himself as an elusive midfielder. It’s a remarkable story with the next chapter titled ‘Japan.’

Notable Absentees: No player is above rugby’s code of ethics, even the lavishly-talented Israel Folau. His antics have cost the team arguably their best player. Quade Cooper didn’t sell the selectors in his return to Super Rugby, while big Willie Skelton‘s contract with Saracens made him unavailable under the ARU’s selection policy. Tatafu Polota-Nau could have been picked, but Chieka opted for the controversial Tolu Latu at hooker.

Pool Prediction: 2nd

Complete Roster

NAME

POS

HGT

WGT

DOB

CAPS

CLUB

Scott Sio	LH	1.87	116	Oct 16 1991	59	Brumbies
James Slipper	LH	1.86	117	Jun 6 1989	91	Brumbies

Folau Fainga’a	HO	1.78	106	May 5 1995	11	Brumbies
Tolu Latu	HO	1.78	110	Feb 23 1993	15	Waratahs
Jordan Uelese	HO	1.89	122	Jan 24 1997	4	Rebels

Allan Ala’alatoa	TH	1.82	125	Jan 28 1994	33	Brumbies
Sekope Kepu	TH	1.88	120	Feb 5 1986	106	Waratahs
Taniela Tupou	TH	1.75	135	May 10 1996	16	Reds

Rory Arnold	LO	2.08	120	Jul 1 1990	22	Brumbies
Adam Coleman	LO	2.04	122	Apr 11 1995	34	Rebels
Izack Rodda	LO	2.02	119	Aug 20 1996	21	Reds
Rob Simmons	LO	2.01	116	Apr 19 1989	98	Waratahs

Michael Hooper	FL	1.82	101	Oct 29 1991	95	Waratahs
David Pocock	FL	1.82	103	Apr 23 1988	78	Brumbies
Lukhan Salakaia-Loto	FL	1.98	123	Sep 19 1996	16	Reds

Jack Dempsey	N8	1.91	109	Apr 12 1994	12	Waratahs
Isi Naisarani	N8	1.95	110	Feb 14 1995	4	Rebels

Will Genia	SH	1.74	84	Jan 17 1988	105	Rebels
Nic White	SH	1.73	78	Jun 13 1990	26	Exeter Chiefs (UK)

Bernard Foley	FH	1.82	89	Sep 8 1989	70	Waratahs
Christian Leali’ifano	FH	1.79	95	Sep 24 1987	22	Brumbies
Matt To’omua	FH/CE	1.82	93	Jan 2 1990	47	Rebels

Adam Ashley-Cooper	CE/WI	1.82	98	Mar 27 1984	119	Waratahs
Samu Kerevi	CE	1.86	105	Sep 27 1993	29	Reds
Tevita Kuridrani	CE	1.96	102	Mar 31 1991	60	Brumbies
James O’Connor	CE	1.80	88	Jul 5 1990	48	Sale Sharks (UK)

Reece Hodge	WI	1.90	97	Aug 26 1994	37	Rebels
Marika Koroibete	WI	1.80	93	Jul 26 1992	24	Rebels
Jordan Petaia	WI	1.90	98	Mar 14 2000	–	Reds

Kurtley Beale	FB	1.84	94	Jan 6 1989	87	Waratahs
Dane Haylett-Petty	FB	1.90	100	Jun 18 1989	33	Rebels

There is no spectacle in rugby like the Fijians in full flight. To a man they have outrageous handling skills and have backs the size of forwards who can move faster than should be humanly possible. The scrum has improved beyond sight though their lineout remains a concern. After beating France in November there is real hope that they upset one of the big guns in Japan.

- Current Ranking: 9 (high 8, low 16)
- Test Record 2016-Present: 15-8-0
- Qualified: Oceania 1
- World Cups: 7 – Detailed History
- Best Finish: Quarter Finals

Head Coach: John McKee (age 62, New Zealand, record 24-14-1) – Has managed to harness Fiji’s unpredictability while adding structure and discipline in defense and the set piece. It’s far from job done, but McKee has made massive progress since taking over in 2014. His calm demeanor and professional approach has been a perfect fit for the laid-back Fijians.

Captain: Dominiko Waqaniburotu (flanker, age 33, 48 caps) – While his electric back row mates are thrilling the crowd, the savvy veteran is doing the dirty work. A classic blindside who clears rucks and makes big hits, but he can also go for a run when given the chance. McKee’s on-field lieutenant charged with keeping his team focused on the task at hand.

One to Watch: Frank Lomani (scrumhalf, age 23, 12 caps) – Relatively new to the side but already certain of his place in the run-on side. Turned down a Super Rugby deal his past year to concentrate on his international ambitions, he’ll join the Melbourne Rebels following the tournament. Lightning quick but also a strong distributor.

Notable Absentees: Tighthead prop Kali Tawake (knee) was forced to drop out after the squad has named. Among several quality players who missed out are London Irish lock Albert Tuisue, Highlanders winger Patrick Osborne, and Clermont fullback Setareki Tuicuvu. Age has finally caught up to RWC 2015 skipper Akapusi Qera.

Pool Prediction: 3rd

Complete Roster

NAME

POS

HGT

WGT

DOB

CAPS

CLUB

Campese Ma’afu	LH	1.82	118	Dec 19 1984	59	Leicester Tigers (UK)
Eroni Mawi	LH	1.89	122	Jun 2 1996	10	Fijian Latui
Peni Ravai	LH/TH	1.85	120	Jun 16 1990	29	Bordeaux Bègles (FR)

Mesulame Dolokoto	HO	1.81	112	Jan 21 1995	7	Fijian Latui
Sam Matavesi	HO	1.82	107	Jan 13 1992	10	Cornish Pirates (UK)
Veremalua Vugakoto	HO	1.83	113	Dec 29 1997	7	Fijian Latui

Lee-Roy Atalifo	TH	1.81	125	Mar 10 1988	12	Jersey Reds (UK)
Manasa Saulo	TH	1.89	132	Apr 6 1989	44	London Irish (UK)

Tevita Cavubati	LO	1.98	123	Aug 12 1987	25	Newcastle Falcons (UK)
Leone Nakarawa	LO	2.01	118	Apr 2 1988	59	Racing 92 (FR)
Api Ratuniyarawa	LO	1.98	120	Jul 11 1986	33	Northampton Saints (UK)
Tevita Ravuta	LO	1.98	116	May 8 1995	4	Bordeaux Bègles (FR)

Semi Kunatani	FL	1.93	107	Oct 17 1990	11	Harlequins (UK)
Mosese Voka	FL	1.94	103	Jun 7 1987	10	Fijian Latui
Dominiko Waqaniburotu	FL	1.95	114	Apr 20 1986	48	Brive (FR)

Viliame Mata	N8	1.98	117	Oct 22 1991	14	Edinburgh (UK)
Peceli Yato	N8	1.96	112	Jan 17 1993	17	Clermont Auvergne (FR)

Frank Lomani	SH	1.79	83	Apr 18 1996	12	Fijian Latui
Niko Matawalu	SH	1.78	85	Mar 8 1989	36	Glasgow Warriors (UK)
Henry Seniloli	SH	1.74	80	Jun 15 1989	28	Doncaster Knights (UK)

Josh Matavesi	FH/CE	1.85	110	Oct 5 1990	22	Newcastle Falcons (UK)
Ben Volavola	FH	1.91	91	Jan 13 1991	33	Racing 92 (FR)

Levani Botia	CE	1.80	103	Mar 14 1989	15	La Rochelle (FR)
Waisea Nayacalevu	CE/WI	1.93	108	Jun 26 1990	20	Stade Français (FR)
Semi Radradra	CE	1.90	103	Jun 13 1992	6	Bordeaux Bègles (FR)
Jale Vatubua	CE	1.89	106	Aug 30 1991	16	Pau (FR)

Vereniki Goneva	WI	1.88	102	Apr 5 1984	56	Newcastle Falcons (UK)
Filipo Nakosi	WI	1.82	100	Apr 8 1992	2	Toulon (FR)
Josua Tuisova	WI	1.80	108	Apr 17 1994	10	Toulon (FR)

Kini Murimurivalu	FB	1.84	97	May 15 1989	27	La Rochelle (FR)
Alivereti Veitokani	FB/FH	1.75	81	Nov 1 1992	9	London Irish (UK)

Take the Lelos lightly at your own peril. Their scrum remains among the world’s elite and while they aren’t the most challenging side with ball in hand, they can be a difficult puzzle to solve in defense. Overall, however, this looks like a team that is aiming more towards RWC 2023 with several youngsters included and a few old timers getting a victory lap.

- Current Ranking: 12 (high 11, low 23)
- Test Record 2016-Present: 29-10-1
- Qualified: RWC 2015, 3rd Pool C
- World Cups: 4 – Detailed History
- Best Finish: Pool Stage

Head Coach: Milton Haig (age 55, New Zealand, record 57-28-2) – Now in his 8th year with the team and heading to his second World Cup. Haig has built on Georgia’s strengths in the forwards and has tried to add some flair to the backline where possible. Ushering in a promising new breed of talent looks to be his intent this time around.

Captain: Merab Sharikadze (center, age 26, 63) – Enters the tournament with an injury cloud around him and the Georgians will be hoping he is ready to go. A classic running midfielder with good footwork and excellent leg drive on contact. He is a fearsome defender who can lift the side by winning collisions against bigger men.

One to Watch: Tedo Abzhandadze (flyhalf, age 20, 9 caps) – One of the great hopes of the next generation. He is small in stature but possesses a booming right boot both out of hand or off the tee. It’s his attacking play that makes him special. Has the speed and dancing feet to take on the line, or can equally fire a miss pass of either hand.

Notable Absentees: Bruising flanker Vito Kolelishvili (long-term concussion) and his in-form replacement Giorgi Tsutskiridze (ankle) have both been ruled out. Wasps prop Zurab Zhvania was dropped for poor conditioning, while all-time scoring leader Merab Kvirikashvili looks to have reached the end after being left out.

Pool Prediction: 4th

Complete Roster

NAME

POS

HGT

WGT

DOB

CAPS

CLUB

Guram Gogichashvili	LH	1.83	118	Sep 4 1998	6	Racing 92 (FR)
Mikheil Nariashvili	LH	1.86	118	May 25 1990	56	Montpellier (FR)

Jaba Bregvadze	HO	1.80	105	Apr 23 1987	54	Sunwolves (JP)
Vano Karkadze	HO	1.78	107	Jun 25 2000	3	Aurillac (FR)
Shalva Mamukashvili	HO	1.80	106	Oct 2 1990	68	Enisei STM (RU)

Levan Chilachava	TH	1.88	130	Aug 17 1991	49	Montpellier (FR)
Beka Gigashvili	TH	1.77	114	Feb 17 1992	9	Grenoble (FR)
Giorgi Melikidze	TH	1.78	117	May 24 1996	14	Stade Français (FR)

Mamuka Gorgodze	LO	1.96	120	Jul 14 1984	71	Toulon (FR)
Kote Mikautadze	LO	2.00	128	Jan 7 1991	59	Montpellier (FR)
Giorgi Nemsadze	LO	1.96	115	Sep 26 1984	92	Ospreys (UK)
Shalva Sutiashvili	LO/FL	1.93	107	Jan 24 1984	78	Charente (FR)

Otar Giorgadze	FL	1.93	111	Mar 2 1996	22	Brive (FR)
Beka Saghinadze	FL	1.92	105	Oct 29 1998	5	Aurillac (FR)
Giga Tkhilaishvili	FL	1.80	104	Apr 8 1991	51	Batumi

Beka Gorgadze	N8	1.89	107	Feb 8 1996	19	Bordeaux Bègles (FR)
Lasha Lomidze	N8	1.95	110	Jun 30 1992	46	Doncaster Knights (UK)

Gela Aprasidze	SH	1.75	75	Jan 14 1998	17	Montpellier (FR)
Giorgi Begadze	SH	1.78	81	Mar 4 1986	65	Lokomotivi
Vaso Lobzhanidze	SH	1.76	81	Oct 14 1996	45	Brive (FR)

Tedo Abzhandadze	FH	1.76	78	Jun 13 1999	9	Aia Kutaisi
Lasha Khmaladze	FH	1.79	82	Jan 20 1988	75	Batumi
Lasha Malaguradze	FH/CE	1.85	92	Jan 2 1986	92	VVA (RU)

Davit Kacharava	CE	1.84	98	Jan 16 1985	116	Enisei STM (RU)
Giorgi Kveseladze	CE	1.85	96	Nov 11 1997	19	Armazi
Tamaz Mchedlidze	CE	1.95	112	Mar 17 1993	53	Agen (FR)
Merab Sharikadze	CE	1.85	97	May 17 1993	63	Aurillac (FR)

Zurab Dzneladze	WI	1.90	95	Jan 23 1992	9	Lokomotivi
Mirian Modebadze	WI	1.94	99	Oct 26 1997	10	Aia Kutaisi
Sandro Todua	WI	1.83	94	Nov 2 1987	79	Batumi

Soso Matiashvili

1.83

Jan 27 1993

Lelo Saracens

Their form has been inconsistent since defeating Canada in the qualifiers, but this version of Los Teros are considerably better than that of 2015. There is greater depth, an array of youthful talent, and more professionals than ever before. Achieving a victory will still require an extraordinary effort but this team will win over the fans with their new-found love for expansive rugby.

- Current Ranking: 19 (high 14, low 23)
- Test Record 2016-Present: 27-12-0
- Qualified: Americas 2
- World Cups: 3 – Detailed History
- Best Finish: Pool Stage

Head Coach: Esteban Meneses (age 47, Argentina, record 27-12-0) – Highly regarded in his home country, Meneses has achieved impressive results after succeeding Pablo Lemoine in 2016. He has a strong group of local coaches on his staff and has created a centralized training group for the top domestic talent. Noted for his high standards and attention to detail.

Captain: Juan Manuel Gaminara (flanker, age 30, 67 caps) – Will be one of the smallest forwards in the tournament but never gives less than total commitment. His style has taken its toll on his body and there are questions of whether he is still up to a starting position. His role as a an inspirational leader, however, cannot be overstated.

One to Watch: Juan Manuel Cat (flyhalf/center, age 23, 31 caps) – A wonderful talent who is equally at home as a flyhalf or outside center. Suffered an injury scare in the build-up but looks to be ok, much to the relief of Teros fans. Cat isn’t the biggest but has exceptional footballing skills and vision. He is also one of several capable goal kickers in the squad.

Notable Absentees: Three of Uruguay’s most celebrated players dropped out of contention. Tighthead prop Mario Sagario retired, second row Rodrigo Capó Ortega pulled out with a back injury though he may be available to cover injury, and midfielder Joaquín Prada had medical school commitments. RWC 2015 hooker Carlos Arboleya has passed the torch to his understudy Germán Kessler.

Pool Prediction: 5th

Complete Roster

NAME

POS

HGT

WGT

DOB

CAPS

CLUB

Facundo Gattas	LH	1.81	115	Jul 2 1995	29	Hindú (AR)
Joaquín Jaunsolo	LH	1.85	108	Sep 12 1998	1	Los Cuervos
Mateo Sanguinetti	LH	1.86	109	Jul 26 1992	63	Houston SaberCats (US)

Germán Kessler	HO	1.85	112	Jul 1 1994	49	Los Cuervos
Guillermo Pujadas	HO	1.81	107	Feb 6 1997	9	Champagnat

Diego Arbelo	TH	1.90	118	Aug 19 1994	5	MVCC
Juan Echeverría	TH	1.74	114	Oct 9 1991	51	Austin Elite (US)
Juan Pedro Rombys	TH	1.86	126	Mar 5 1987	31	Trébol

Ignacio Dotti	LO	1.96	107	Aug 18 1994	46	NOLA Gold (US)
Manuel Leindekar	LO	2.04	116	Apr 23 1997	14	Oyonnax (FR)
Franco Lamanna	LO	1.88	103	Oct 5 1991	44	Darlington Mowden Park (UK)
Diego Magno	LO	1.88	105	Apr 27 1989	90	Houston SaberCats (US)

Manuel Ardao	FL	1.76	92	Sep 9 1998	4	Old Christians
Santiago Civetta	FL	1.89	98	Feb 28 1998	5	Old Boys
Juan Manuel Gaminara	FL	1.75	95	May 1 1989	67	Old Boys
Juan Diego Ormaechea	FL	1.84	101	Jan 28 1991	30	Carrasco Polo

Manuel Diana	N8	1.90	102	Mar 7 1996	22	Old Christians
Alejandro Nieto	N8	1.86	106	Jan 7 1988	69	Houston SaberCats (US)

Santiago Arata	SH	1.74	78	Sep 2 1996	39	Houston SaberCats (US)
Tomás Inciarte	SH/CE	1.81	84	Oct 22 1996	14	Old Christians
Agustín Ormaechea	SH	1.76	83	Mar 8 1991	45	Mont-de-Marsan (FR)

Felipe Berchesi	FH	1.80	83	Dec 4 1991	32	Dax (FR)
Felipe Etcheverry	FH	1.76	75	Jun 23 1996	2	Carrasco Polo

Juan Manuel Cat	CE	1.78	86	Sep 6 1996	31	Old Boys
Agustín Della Corte	CE	1.78	93	Sep 11 1997	8	Trébol
Andrés Vilaseca	CE	1.85	97	May 8 1991	55	Austin Elite (US)

Federico Favaro	WI	1.72	82	May 19 1991	30	Old Christians
Nicolás Freitas	WI	1.76	92	Jul 3 1993	34	Carrasco Polo
Leandro Leivas	WI	1.81	98	Jul 6 1988	74	Toronto Arrows (CA)

Gastón Mieres	FB	1.80	80	Oct 5 1989	68	Toronto Arrows (CA)
Rodrigo Silva	FB	1.82	86	Nov 2 1992	57	Austin Elite (US)

Just a month ago they were on top of the world, a debatable position but even with some key injuries this is one of the best Welsh sides ever to arrive at a World Cup. Will that be good enough to win? If the Six Nations champions can get through the pool stage unbeaten and relatively unscathed – they are as good a bet as any.

- Current Ranking: 5 (high 1, low 10)
- Test Record 2016-Present: 28-16-1
- Qualified: RWC 2015, 2nd Pool A
- World Cups: 8 – Detailed History
- Best Finish: Semi Finals

Head Coach: Warren Gatland (age 56, New Zealand, record 67-51-2) – Has lost plenty but knows how to win big games better than almost anyone. Gatland’s 12th year with the team will be his last – he will take over the Chiefs in Super Rugby next season before leading the Lions for a third time.

Captain: Alun Wyn Jones (lock, age 34, 127 caps) – One of the great forwards of the professional era. Entering his fourth World Cup with three Lions tours also on his resume. Will be managed carefully in the pool stage. Even on the sidelines he is an uncompromising and influential figure.

One to Watch: Aaron Wainwright (flanker, age 21, 12 caps) – Has gone from nowhere to possible World Cup starter in just two seasons of professional rugby. Injuries have opened doors and Wainwright has taken every opportunity. Gifted with a huge engine that doesn’t seem to have an off switch.

Notable Absentees: Injury struck significantly with flanker Ellis Jenkins (knee), Toby Faletau (collarbone), and Gareth Anscombe (knee) knocked out entirely. Cory Hill will miss a game or two but was taken despite a stress fracture in his leg. Left in the cold are experienced center Scott Williams and a pair of former first choice props, Rob Evans and Samson Lee.

Pool Prediction: 1st

Complete Roster

NAME

POS

HGT

WGT

DOB

CAPS

CLUB

Rhys Carré	LH	1.91	128	Feb 8 1998	1	Cardiff Blues
Jon Wyn Jones	LH	1.84	114	Feb 26 1992	15	Scarlets
Nicky Smith	LH	1.83	116	Apr 7 1994	31	Ospreys

Elliot Dee	HO	1.84	106	Mar 7 1994	22	Dragons
Ryan Elias	HO	1.85	110	Jan 7 1995	8	Scarlets
Ken Owens	HO	1.84	109	Jan 3 1987	67	Scarlets

Tomas Francis	TH	1.85	130	Jan 27 1992	43	Exeter Chiefs
Dillon Lewis	TH	1.85	127	Jan 4 1996	15	Cardiff Blues

Jake Ball	LO	1.98	121	Jun 21 1991	35	Scarlets
Adam Beard	LO	2.03	120	Jan 7 1996	16	Ospreys
Cory Hill	LO	1.95	117	Feb 10 1992	24	Dragons
Alun Wyn Jones	LO	1.98	118	Sep 19 1985	127	Ospreys

James Davies	FL	1.83	102	Oct 25 1990	5	Scarlets
Aaron Shingler	FL	1.99	106	Aug 7 1987	20	Scarlets
Justin Tipuric	FL	1.88	100	Aug 6 1989	66	Ospreys
Aaron Wainwright	FL	1.89	106	Sep 25 1997	12	Dragons