I still think it's too early, Luke, for the reasons I gave. He will learn in time, but they're two different games and he hasn't grasped all that's required of his position in RFU yet. I think it's pretty tough on Burrell and, TBH, I'm struggling to understand Lancaster's thinking.
I think he had to pick Burgess because of the circus and the role played in his transfer by the England rugby union setup. If they'd torn him away from league and not picked him, it would have sent a strong message to other potential converts. He offers some useful characteristics, but he's not in there on merit.
It's his positional sense that worries me. At that level, if you're not in the right place - one misplaced or dropped pass. One missed tackle because you left the gap by not understanding where you should be, and it's goodnight! I can see the politics of it, and it'll be interesting to see how much game time he gets. I've not much doubt that he will be good, I just think this is way too early at such an important event.
For a side that is considered to be the dominant force of the sport NZ's record in world cups not on home soil is shocking. In five attempts they have only made a final once. On the other hand the Aussies have a great record in European tournaments and always have a very dangerous back line. I think the improvement in their pack is going to be crucial so, as a punter as well as a rugby nut, I think Australia will win it.
The Aussies are always a good shout in a World Cup - just like the Germans in football. You can bet they'll be there or thereabouts!
That's why it's always worth having a few quid on them - it softens the pain of watching them win the bloody thing again!
Personally think the Boks are the best bet from the southern hemisphere Got a feeling it's between SA and England, being on home soil will be a big advantage for England although I accept they haven't really had the look of world champions leading into the tournament. Wales's chances have taken a significant blow with these recent injuries. It could bugger them up for even getting out of the group.
NZ re still the best cant see the Boks winning it, England have a good chance and are playing better than the OZ. I will go with Canada
Yes, I live in Spain, that's my lifestyle choice. However, I'm still English. I played the game for over 20 years, so I have a strong interest still.
I'd love England to win the world cup but I've got tickets for the bronze final and would love to see England play a quality opposition. Torn between Patrionism and how much i'd love to see England play.
We're not a bad team with good depth of squad. We have as good a chance as any northern hemisphere team especially with home advantage. The result against Australia really is key. Difficult group but losing Webb and Halfpenny is a big loss to Wales. In order of most likely: - NZ - South Africa - Australia - England - France - Ireland - Wales - Argentina - Scotland - Fiji Visited the beautiful set of islands that is Fiji last year so hope they do well.
As Dan Starkey pointed out, The Blacks don't always travel well. The Boks will be there or thereabouts. But, they did lose at home to Argentina recently! France are an enigma - as always! Ireland could upset anybody on their day too. I'd love to see .England win it again. If not, i'd go for the Wallabies or The Blacks, on current form.
Maybe there are echoes of the '66 footballers. A good, but not world beating team who are strong on their own patch. Wembley was a fortress then; Twickenham could be now?
I thought it was time to bump up your thread , NSIS. I'm starting to get into it a bit now. Looking forward to seeing the Clash of the Titans tomorrow - Jamie Roberts v Sam Burgess
Yes and No. I can see Lancaster's reasonimg, I'm just not quite sure i entirely agree with it. Yes, Farrell gives more bulk in the midfield and is better defensively, but I'm an ex No. 10 myself and I like Ford - he makes opponents think twice. They're never sure what he's going to do, and that gives a distinct cutting edge going forward. I'm sure Ford will be introduced sooner or later.
