Rugby World Cup - shock squad announcements

The Rugby World Cup is rapidly approaching, with 20 teams set to battle it out for the William Web Ellis trophy and a chance for glory. Most teams have released their squads now and there have been a number of shock exclusions, with big names getting left out. Let’s take a look at some of the most surprising.

Until very recently Michael Hooper has been the first name on the Wallabies’ team sheet for near enough a decade. The all-action openside has been struggling with injuries and not playing at his very best leading combative head coach Eddie Jones to leave the 124-cap Wallaby out of his squad.

There is certainly no shortage of controversy around Folau having been jettisoned from Australian rugby following some homophobic comments. Having become eligible to play for the country of his parents, Tonga, it was assumed the 6’4” fullback would be on the plane to France, but to most people’s surprise, he has missed out on selection.

Many saw Slade as a key component of England’s plans for the 2023 World Cup, with the silky smooth outside centre offering a left-footed kicking option as well as becoming a second playmaker when needed. For England coach Steve Borthwick, Slade wasn’t part of his plans and the Exeter man won’t be part of the England squad.

Another shock choice for Eddie Jones’ Wallaby squad as he leaves out his most experienced fly-half. Cooper has never quite hit the peaks his talent would’ve suggested he could, but he is still a composed figure in a mostly inexperienced Australian backline. Jones has opted for youngster Carter Gordon in his stead.

There is a pattern developing here of English and Australian players not making their respective squads despite expectations they would do so. For Dombrandt, he hasn’t quite mastered international rugby yet, despite his dominance in the domestic game, still, it was a shock to see his excluded from the English squad, with Borthwick choosing only one specialist number eight.

Four years ago, Pollard was starting at 10 for the Springboks and playing a big part in them lifting the World Cup trophy aloft. This time round he hasn’t even made the squad. Whilst there was some initial confusion around his injury status, it has been clarified he is indeed fit, but not part of the Boks’ plans.

Stevenson has broken onto the scene in recent years as a part of the high-flying Chiefs backline, regularly breaking the lines and providing fantastic support play. Despite his strong domestic form, he has only made one All Blacks appearance, where he scored a try. By all accounts, it seemed as though Stevenson was bound for the World Cup but was left out at the last moment.

Another member of the Chiefs who could feel a little deflated following his exclusion from the All Blacks squad. Weber is an 18-cap All Black who has provided solid backup for Aaron Smith during his career. He will certainly consider himself unlucky to be passed over for Cam Roigard and Finlay Christie.