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One of my favourite parts of any Rugby World Cup is the minnow nations. Who doesn’t love a good underdog?
Over the next four articles, I will bring to light a few of the stars from each minnow nation in each pool.
This week we take a look at the minnows of Pool A, who are on opposite ends of the minnow spectrum – Fiji and Uruguay.
Fiji
It’s a stretch to call them minnows these days – they stand at ninth in the international rugby rankings. But given they are in the ‘pool of death’ this year, the title is accurate. Fiji is well known for playing a back-orientated, entertaining brand of football and these players are the personification of running rugby.
Nemani Nadolo: Anyone who has seen the Crusaders in the Super Rugby knows Nadolo is a delight to watch. The big winger can run around you, but he’d much rather run over the top of you. I’ve got a sneaky suspicion he will score one of the tries of the tournament.
Waisea Nayacalevu: A winger/outside back carving it up for Stade Français in the Top 14. Not only a great finisher but great at putting his teammates through holes or over the try line. Don’t be surprised if he runs the length of the field for a try.
Metuisela Talebula: Another Fijian flyer playing in the Top 14 for Bordeaux. Talebula is capable of playing anywhere in the back line and is equally capable of finding the try line, regardless of what position he plays.
Uruguay
True minnows, but they are on the rise. They recently beat Argentina for the first time ever (though it was a second string side).
Felipe Berchesi: A fleet-footed five-eighth who plays in France’s Pro D2. Berchesi has a great kicking game and Uruguay are bound to get some points on the bigger teams off the back of his boot.
Agustín Ormaechea: Also plays in the Pro D2. Although only 24, Ormaechea has a cool head under pressure. He’s got experience in Rugby Sevens and if he sees a gap, he’s taking it.
Jerónimo Etcheverry: One of Uruguay’s most experienced players, with 40 caps to his name. The 27-year-old fullback/five-eighth has been called one of the most promising Uruguayan players of his generation.
Keep an eye out for the experienced front row of (props) Alejo Corral, Mario Sagario, and (hooker) Nicolás Klappenbach, who have over 120 caps between them, which may not sound like a lot, but for a minnow nation it’s huge.
So, Roarers, are there are any Fijian or Uruguayan players you think we should look out for?
In the next article, I’ll be looking at the minnows of Pool B – Japan and the USA.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.