GamingZion Brings You the Most Promising Rugby Players at the World Cup
Posted: September 22, 2015
Updated: October 9, 2023
As the World Cup is in full swing, we have decided to compile a short list of some of the promising rugby players.
The Rugby World Cup is a tournament that is staged every four years, so fans are delighted that it’s back. Punters that like to place wagers on online sportsbooks in the UK, can check out our guide to betting on the World Cup. This year, there are plenty of stars to watch out for on the field as they’re all vying to reach the final.
• Sam Burgess showed promise, but is yet to fully prove himself at Rugby Union
• Fumiaki Tanaka is a surprise at this year’s tournament
• Jesse Kriel is just 21 and has a bright future ahead of him
Four years ago, when the tournament was staged in New Zealand, the hosts defeated France in the final. This year, the defending champions have hit the ground running, winning Argentina 26:16 in their first game. The squad is composed of promising young players which contributed to the success of the team, however they are not the only nation to feature great talents. Let’s take a look some of the stars on the rise in this year’s Rugby World Cup
Nehe Milner-Skudder (New Zealand)
Since they are the defending champions, we can start off with New Zealand. Nehe Milner-Skudder is a 24-year-old full back that can also operate on the wing. Some did not see his potential at first, however witnesses that watched the Hurricanes, a Wellington-based side Milner-Skudder plays for, will tell you that he has all the attributes necessary to succeed. Pace, strength and side-stepping skills are all there, which is part of the reason why he called up to the national team for this tournament. Mobile betting providers are sure to be keeping an eye on his future success and offering odds on his feats.
Sam Burgess (England)
Sam Burgess holds the inside center position for England. He was selected to play the opening match against Fiji, which England won 35:11, however there were many critics who voiced their concern about his ability to adapt. The main reasons for the scepticism arose from the fact that he played Rugby League, but then decided to switch to Rugby Union in early 2014. But his performance against Fiji proved doubters wrong as he showcased great skills. So he is certainly one promising rugby player.
Fumiaki Tanaka (Japan)
Fumiaki Tanaka represents Japan and his duties lie in the scrum-half position. He may not be on the same level as of the other opposing players in his position, but the sheer will that he showed when Japan beat South Africa 32:34 was astonishing. He became the first player in Japan to partake in and win the Super Rugby title. Considering that he is 30 at the moment, there is great experience at his feet. He can easily play the ball across the whole field, and is always ready to tackle the opposition hard.
Josh Strauss (Scotland)
Josh Strauss is a 29-year-old back-row that is known for his amazing beard. More importantly, when it comes to the game there seem to be no other competitors to claim his position. Although he was born in South Africa, he represents Scotland at the Rugby World Cup. This has propelled criticism about Scotland’s residency rule that has seen a number of players join them. Considering that South Africa and Scotland are both in Group B, fans are set for a great match. And this promising rugby player will play a vital role in the outcome of the game.
Jesse Kriel (South Africa)
Although a relative unknown before the Rugby World Cup, he certainly managed to establish himself after South Africa defeated Australia and thus reached online gambling news in the UK. He is currently 21 years of age and by the initial looks of his performance he has a bright future ahead of him. Kriel operates as a utility back, a position that he managed to make his own. The game against Australia presented to the world what he is capable of. Kriel’s greatest skills are speed and versatility, which should see him put on some great performances for his country at the World Cup.