Rugby World Cup 2019: Australia

World ranking: Sixth

Qualification: 2015 runners-up

Best result: Champions 1991, 99

TAB odds: $13

Chances: Runners-up four years ago, the Aussies have struggled under Michael Cheika ever since and suffered another crippling blow with the departure of Israel Folau from the playing ranks.

The Wallabies are another talented team that just needs to harness those abilities to build confidence as the tournament progresses.

Leading players

Samu Kerevi 

One of the most destructive running midfield backs in world rugby, Karevi is finally releasing his potential. The Queensland captain had his way with the All Blacks in Perth - expect him to show that type of form in Japan.

Marika Koroibete 

The former NRL winger is the X-factor in the Australian backline, with the ability to break a game open with his blistering pace and has an element of Jonah Lomu to his power game. He is suspect on defence, as the All Blacks showed in Auckland 

Taniela Tupou 

The 'Tongan Thor' has rapidly risen through the ranks of Australian rugby, since his shift across the Tasman three years ago. Tupou is potentially the most dynamic prop in world rugby and poses a real threat off the bench in this current Wallabies make-up.

Tolu Latu 

Latu impressed with his general play in both tests against the All Blacks, and the Wallabies finally have a hooker that can scrum well. Lineout throwing wavered at Eden Park, but watch out for the Aussie No.2.

David Pocock 

On his day, he's the best loose forward in the world, but injury has really impacted the last four years of his international career. Still, Pocock poses a genuine breakdown threat and alongside Michael Hooper, the Wallabies may have potentially the best flanker pairing in Japan.

Squad

Backs: Kurtley Beale, Dane Haylett-Petty, Reece Hodge, Marika Koroibete, Jordan Petaia, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Tevita Kuridrani, James O'Connor, Samu Kerevi, Matt Toomua, Christian Lealiifano, Bernard Foley, Nic White, Will Genia.

Forwards: Isi Naisarani, Jack Dempsey, Michael Hooper (capt), David Pocock, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Rory Arnold, Izack Rodda, Adam Coleman, Rob Simmons, Allan Alaalatoa, Taniela Tupou, Sekope Kepu, Scott Sio, James Slipper, Tolu Latu, Folau Fainga'a, Jordan Uelese.

Pool draw (NZT)
September 21
Australia v Fiji, Sapporo, 4:45pm (live updates)

September 29
Australia v Wales, Tokyo, 8:45pm (live updates)

October 5
Australia v Uruguay, Oita Prefecture, 6:15pm

October 11
Australia v Georgia, Shizukoa Prefecture, 11:15pm

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