Five All Blacks Included in the Rugby World Cup Team of the Tournament…

In the lead-up to the Rugby World Cup final, featuring reigning champions South Africa against the three-time winners New Zealand, the PA news agency has assembled a lineup of standout players from the tournament.

1. Beauden Barrett (New Zealand): A two-time world player of the year who set the bar high for playmaking full-backs.
2. Damian Penaud (France): An audacious wing who led the try-scoring charts until Will Jordan’s outstanding performance against Argentina.
3. Waisea Nayacalevu (Fiji): The captain of the Fijian team, who shone in a backline filled with lethal runners.
4. Bundee Aki (Ireland): A top candidate for player of the tournament due to his powerful running, intelligent line choices, and slick footwork.
5. Will Jordan (New Zealand): A ruthless finisher who joins the ranks of legends like Jonah Lomu with eight tries to his name.
6. Richie Mo’unga (New Zealand): The most complete fly-half in the game, known for his creativity and excellent game management.
7. Aaron Smith (New Zealand): Despite his small stature, one of the World Cup’s brightest minds and a standout performer.
8. Ox Nche (South Africa): Although often on the bench, he’s a formidable scrummager who makes a significant impact when he enters the field.
9. Mike Tadjer (Portugal): A versatile front-row player who played a crucial role in the shocking victory over Fiji.
10. Ben Tameifuna (Tonga): A massive tighthead prop weighing 23st 11lbs with both scrummaging and carrying abilities.
11. Eben Etzebeth (South Africa): A fierce enforcer in the second row, still considered one of the game’s best despite an off-night against England.
12. Tadhg Beirne (Ireland): A reliable presence for Ireland, demonstrating determination whether in the lock or second-row position.
13. Courtney Lawes (England): A back-row warrior with a sharp rugby IQ, excelling in the most significant matches.
14. Jac Morgan (Wales): A powerful flanker who displayed a level of maturity beyond his years in leading Wales to the quarter-finals.
15. Ardie Savea (New Zealand): Although Ben Earl of England was a strong contender, Savea stands out as a class above the rest.