stevvo

Who do you think will win it? I'm inclined to say the All Blacks.

Sparky

*Moved to the Rugby World Cup Forum.

stevvo

Oops, sorry!

Sparky

I would like to see England win it, but i guess New Zealand are one of the favourites.

sarcasticool

I'm hoping the All Blacks win, even though they are the favourites and have the team to do it, they do have a habit of blowing it when it comes to World Cup finals. They maybe ranked no# 1 almost every year but that has counted for nothing in previous World Cups!

Australia, South Africa, England, France or any of the main players are a chance when it comes to a tournament like the World Cup.

A lot of people don't realise the huge pressure by NZers on the AB's to win every test and win them well and they can be very merciless when they lose, as for the World Cup, to fail would be unforgivable! I think this time they will be more motivated than ever to win it, so go the All Blacks!

WallaBen86

Naturally I'm supporting the Wallabies for the win, but realisticly I have 4 selections: New Zealand, France, Australia and Ireland. Any of those four are well capable of taking out the championship.

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bloodandmud

Ireland won't win it, I'll tell you that right now.

All Blacks will shank it again - they always do

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donnyboy

not sure about your choice in Ireland esp after their game aainst Scotland.

My final 4 would be NZ, Aus, France and Boks. With France and NZ in the final. NZ for the win,

My reasons;

Depth in squad. NZ has an awesome depth in its squad. This will be crucial as the tourney get thru to the knockout stages as injuries will occur. All positions are covered well, except for perhaps center as there hasnt been a specialist center since Tana left. Im sure the Wallabies will be champing at the bit to exploit the ABs midfield again with Mortlock. But this didnt happen in the last game of the Trinations, the Wallabies were held tryless.

World Class Players. Carter, McCaw, Rokocoko, Howlett, Collins etc etc. They are top ranked players and argueably at their peaks of their careers now. Carter is pivotal in his role as Wilkinson was in 2003. Destroyed The Lions in 2005.

Game Breakers. Rokocoko,Howlett,Collins,Mealamu,McCaw,Carter,Muli aina and the list goes on.These guys can turn games. With the back 3 lethal should the game opens. NB dont kick to these guys!
A special mention about the new half back- Brendon Leonard, hes also got what it takes I believe.

Unbeatable Forwards Pack. Best in the business bar none. Lineouts shakey at times but best at the breakdown, cleanout, mauls, and a scrum that can desimate

last but not least

Management Henry and co have the reciepe to ensure victory in France this year, the squad has undergone radical changes, ie no binge drinking sessions, curfews in place and self/squad accountability. Also, Henry has encouraged a balanced life, with many of the team taking on academic studies during the year. The rotation policy has ensured that they have game time in big games and increased depth.