RWC Squad Prediction

The WC squad is really taking shape. I think you can lock in the following:

Props: Ethan de Groot, Ofa Tuungafasi, Tyrel Lomax, Nepo Laulala

Hookers: Dane Coles, Samisoni Taukei’aho, Codie Taylor

Locks: Scott Barrett, Brodie Retallick, Sam Whitelock

Loose Forwards: Shannon Frizell, Sam Cane, Ardie Savea, Dalton Papalii, Luke Jacobson

Halfbacks: Aaron Smith, Cam Roigard, Finlay Christie

First Fives: Richie Mo'unga, Damian McKenzie

Midfielders: Jordie Barrett, Rieko Ioane, Anton Lienert-Brown

Outside Backs: Beauden Barrett, Will Jordan, Mark Telea

That is 26 players...

I think they'll only take five props, with Williams battling Moody for that spot, because they won't want a specialist tighthead in Newell.

Due to BBBR and Whitelock's age and Scooter's importance, I think five locks go to the WC so that they can play a midweek game without starting any of the big guns. Vaa'i and Lord both to go, as Paddy has hardly played. Finau might even get a run at lock off the bench.

Other loose forward is interesting. I personally think they have left the spot for Blackadder, as Finau has not had a look yet. Could come down to the former's fitness

Midfield spot between Havili and Ennor. Hard to know, I think McLeod is very much an injury placeholder... they might even take both the former.

Outsides, I think Clarke was sharp off the bench last night, and has his nose in front. They won't take him and Fainga'anuku... I suspect as long as he is fit, Narawa is highly likely as he covers the right wing + fullback.

Likely Others: Tamaiti Williams, Tupou Vaa'i, Josh Lord Ethan Blackadder, David Havili, Caleb Clarke, Emoni Narawa