We've looked through the squads and have picked 3 players who we think will star over the next 6 weeks in England as Rugby is on the world stage once more.
Nehe Milner-Skudder
Hurricanes Wing/ Full-Back has been all the rave amongst Super Rugby fans for the past few months, and for good reason too. The 'Canes flyer was in sensational form in the Super 15 season with Steve Hansen giving Milner-Skudder his debut in the Rugby Championship decider against Australia, and he repayed that faith by crossing the whitewash twice in that game as the All-Blacks claimed victory.
The diminutive 24-year old managed to beat Cory Jane and Israel Dagg, who have over 100 All-Black caps between them, for a place in the squad and he will start on the wing in their World Cup opener against Argentina, and it will be seen as a great chance to show his array of skills, including an off-load to rival that of Sonny Bill Williams.
Possessing an arsenal of attacking skills, Milner-Skudder has been installed as an early favourite for top try scorer, despite his relative inexperience and is definitely worth a punt. Still don't believe me? Have a look at what he can do below;
Jesse Kriel
21-year old Jesse Kriel Springbok announced himself on the test stage with a fantastic try on his debut against Australia during this years Rugby Championship. Receiving the ball out wide left, he weaved his way through the Wallabies defence and dotted down to show everybody what he is capable of.
Being described as South Africa's ace up the sleeve for this World Cup, Kriel is a powerful runner and has excellent ball handling skills. Springbok coach Heinke Meyer has described as “one of the most talented players I’ve ever coached.” His versatility in the back line should see him gain plenty of game time over the World Cup to demostrate his skills and add to his 4 caps.
He will start in the centre against Japan, partnering rugby legend Jean De Villier's. Have a look at what he can do below;
Handre Pollard
Staying with the Springboks and 21-year old outhalf Handre Pollard will be looking to lead the charge as South Africa aim to bring home the Webb Ellis trophy for a third time. Fast tracked into the squad after graduating from the u-20 set up, Pollard cemented his place as the starting 10 during this years Rugby Championship.
In what was a disappointing Rugby Championship for the Springboks, Pollard finished the tournament as top points scorer as well as crossing the whitewash twice against the All Blacks.
However, Pat Lambie will give Pollard stiff competition for the jersey after putting in some impressive performances recently, but the stage is set for 13-cap Pollard to shine at this World Cup. He will form part of an ever impressive back line that blends promising youth with world class experience, but he will be the one charged with making it tick.
Blessed with a big boot and a strong ball carrier, his physical attributes are impressive and now he has the chance to show the world what he can do;
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