2015 Rugby World Cup Preview: Australia
By Matt Findlay
The Wallabies were disappointing in New Zealand in 2011, and Michael Cheika has made some polarising decisions with his 2015 Rugby World Cup (RWC) squad but even so, pundits give Australia a genuine chance of claiming the William Web Ellis Cup for the first time since 1999.
Australia’s preparations have been up and down, with a win over the Kiwis in the Rugby Championship followed by a thrashing in the Bledisloe Cup decider – which featured some bizarre selections from Chieka.
But, after a strong camp in America and good trial form, there is reason for confidence, particularly looking at Australia’s squad.
Dual John Eales medallist Israel Folau is the big one, and looks likely to set this RWC on fire in his debut tournament, while the rest of the squad boasts over 1200 combined international caps.
Skipper Stephen Moore, outside back Adam Ashley-Cooper and inside back Matt Giteau will all play their third RWC, with the latter the only survivor of Australia’s