Japan is abuzz with Rugby World World Cup fever. The tournament is serving as a brilliant platform for both fresh talents as well as those more experienced to show off what they are capable of. The rivalry is alive, and fans have one eye on the game and the other one the unpredictable odds. 48 Matches are being played in just over 40 days, leaving a multitude of sports betting opportunities on the table. Picking the teams in the finals is currently an attractive market with England vs New Zealand standing on 15/2 and South Africa vs New Zealand at 11/4. Within all of this excitement, we do need to take note of some individual performances and accolades.
The Players
Jonathan Sexton – Sexton is a brilliantly talented player with global recognition for his mental strength. Consistency in play is his trademark on the field. No wonder then that during 2018 he was named the World Player of the year. Therefore many consider him to be the critical player within the Irish World Cup Campaign.
Beauden Barrett – Some of the best players in the global arena has come from the All Black squad. Barrett is without a doubt the most valuable player in the All Black’s quest to take home the Webb Ellis trophy. His versatility on the field allows him to be a strong force regardless of the number on his back.
Leone Nakarawa – Fiji rugby has been going from strength to strength over the past couple of years, moving up in the World Rankings. This is due to some great skill and talent within their squad, which helped them to gold in Rio during the Olympics. This success is what is giving them hope to excel in Japan. One of the pillars of strength within the squad is the man better known as the Octopus on the field. Nakarawa is bringing a brilliant blend of skill and physical strength, and the game he is playing is putting him in the ranks of the best in the world.
Jordan Petaia – At the mere age of 19 years old, Petaia is one of the youngsters on the field during the Cup. The Australian squad represents an infused blend of experience and youth on their team. Regardless of age, Petaia has shown himself to be a player who is not only versatile but also remarkably consistent with his delivery. His recent performance at the Queensland Reds makes him a valuable asset to deliver a noticeable impact for the Wallabies.
Siya Kolisi – Kolisi went to Japan as one of the most vital players with the Springbok team. His previous experience in the World Cup arena is essential on the field in Japan right now. Kolisi isn’t only an integral part of the Springbok squad, but also to the development of rugby as a sport in South Africa.
