Chris Wyles:
The inclusion of Chris Wyles in this article may surprise many readers, however, the American utility back has been sensational for Saracens this year, filling in wherever needed in the back line. He finished the season as one of Saracen’s (winners of the Aviva Premiership) top try scorers, which should not be taken lightly. America have progressed massively since the last world cup, and looking at their pool, they have an outside chance of making it through the group stages. If they are to do this, there is no doubt that Wyles will be one of their corner stones.
Henry Slade:
The young English man has been a hot topic this year, being at the center of an outstanding season for Exeter. Slade’s talent has never been in question; the only worry is this World Cup will come too soon for the youngster. However, the versatility of Slade may be a defining factor, enabling him to squeeze his way into the highly contested final squad. Assuming he makes the final cut, he is sure to light up the English backline with his ability to go through a gap himself as easily as he can put other players through.
Waisake Naholo:
The Highlander’s right winger has been scoring tries and smashing records this year in their Super Rugby campaign. His impressive form earned a bid from French giants, Clermont. However, New Zealand Rugby Union have realised his threat on the field and have offered a deal to keep him in the country. Having been named in their Rugby Championship squad it is likely he will also get some game time and force his way into their Rugby World Cup squad. If this is the case, he will surely tear up the field with his regular try-scoring threat .
Handré Pollard:
The young South African out-half is likely to be the Springbok’s first choice this year. He has been at the centre of everything good that the Bulls have done this year, and is likely to take this form into his international game. Last year he was the star of the Junior Rugby World Championship, and even though his team lost in the final to England, it was enough to show the world the threat he possesses and the threat he could pose at senior level this year.
Nehe Milner-Skudder:
Milner-Skudder is yet another Kiwi who has exploded onto the Super Rugby scene this year. It seems impossible to find a highlight reel at the moment without the youngsters quick stepping and fast hands. His impressive form has seen him called up to the All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship. If given the chance he will surely make an impression and grab a place in what is one of the most competitive world cup squads.
Nemani Nadolo:
The 6ft 5 in, 125kg Fijian winger has been tearing up the Super Rugby league this year with two miraculous finishes coming in recent weeks. The goliath winger is one of few players who cannot only go through you but also round you just as easily. The Crusaders wing has been named in the Fijian World Cup training squad, and if he can make the match day team, he is definitely a player to keep an eye.
Henry Speight :
The Brumbies’ winger is fast, strong and skillful, and has all the attributes to become a world-class winger. The Fijian-born winger is set to be a key player for Australia in their World Cup campaign. This, of course is providing he can get back into the squad following a ban he has picked up following dangerous rucking involving a tip. His form prior to this incident suggests he should have no problem making the Australian team.
Side Note:
We really hope that Nick Cummings makes the Australian squad, even as waterboy. There is no doubt that his post match interviews will light up the tournament as much as the very best of tries.
