Rugby World Cup 2019: Namibia

World ranking: 23rd

Qualification: First in Africa

Best result: Pool stage

TAB odds: $501

Chances: Like Canada, they face a tough task gaining any kind of result in a pool with two of rugby's superpowers - but at least they have each other.

They're still looking for the first World Cup win, since debuting in 1999, and lost by a solitary point to Georgia four years ago.

Leading players:

Johan Deysel

The centre has represented Namibia since 2013 and featured in the 2015 World Cup, where he memorably crossed the white line against the All Blacks. He's set to lead the side out as captain in Japan.

Squad:

Forwards: Andre Rademeyer, Nelius Theron, Desiderius Sethie, A J de Klerk, Johannes Coetzee, Obert Nortje, Louis van der Westhuizen, Torsten van Jaarsveld, Tjiuee Uanivi, Johan Retief, Thomasau Forbes, Rohan Kitshoff, Max Katjijeko, Prince Gaoseb, Wian Conradie, P J van Lill, Adriaan Booysen, Janco Venter.

Backs: Cliven Loubser, Helarius Kisting, Damian Stevens, Eugene Jantjies, Darryl de la Harpe, Johan Deysel (captain), Justin Newman, J C Greyling, Johann Tromp, Chad Plato, Lesley Klim, Janry du Toit, P J Walters.

Pool draw (NZT)
September 22
Italy v Namibia, Higashiosaka City, 5:15pm

September 28
South Africa v Namibia, Toyota City, 9:45pm

October 6
New Zealand v Namibia, Tokyo, 5:45pm (live)

October 13
Namibia v Canada, Kamaishi City

Newshub.