Breaking Down the 2023 Rugby World Cup

One of the world’s most popular events, the Rugby World Cup, is fast approaching, and already favourites are starting to emerge. This year’s tournament will take place in France for the first time since 2007.

Twenty teams make up the field, with four pools of five starting on Sept. 8. The opening game features an epic showdown of the two favorites, France and New Zealand. The top two teams from each pool will advance to the knockout round which begins on Oct. 14.

Who are the favourites to win this year? This article will preview this fall’s World Cup while examining some of the best teams and players to keep an eye on.

Rugby World Cup 2023 preview

The Rugby World Cup, the pinnacle of oval ball sports, holds unparalleled significance in the sporting world. This epic event, spanning almost two months from September 8 to October 28, with the final set to take place in Stade de France in Saint-Denis.

New Zealand, known for their dominance in world rugby, are entering the tournament as slight favourites over France. Surprisingly, they face some challenges despite winning the Cup three times before. However, this could actually work in their coach Ian Foster’s favor. Their formidable half-back pairing of Beauden Barrett and Aaron Smith is widely regarded as one of the best in the world, and they also have the experienced presence of Sam Whitelock in the lock position.

France, the tournament host, will enter as a significant contender in Pool A, alongside the revered All Blacks. Having triumphed in the Six Nations Grand Slam earlier this year, Les Blues showcase the extraordinary skills of scrum-half Antoine Dupont, known as one of the top rugby talents in the world. Recently, France made headlines with their impressive 53-10 victory over England at Twickenham, demonstrating their formidable form as they gear up for the upcoming challenge.

Don’t underestimate Ireland in Pool B, who could give South Africa a run for the top spot. Andy Farrell’s team entered the Rugby Championships as the top-ranked team in the world, and they are determined to bring home a world championship for Ireland. With the leadership of captain Jonny Sexton, the skills of center Bundee Aki, and a formidable pack led by Cian Healy and Josh van der Flier, there’s a good chance that Irish fans will have something to celebrate.

The defending champions, South Africa, are known for their formidable physicality. The Springboks dominated England in the last World Cup to claim the title. Led by captain Siya Kolisi they aim to make history with a fourth World Cup victory.

Australia is a bit of an unknown in this tournament, especially since their former coach, Eddie Jones, is now in charge of England. Wales, on the other hand, hasn’t been performing well recently. England is also facing challenges as they adjust to their new coach, Steve Borthwick. While they have the talented Majo Itoje on their team, winning the tournament will require everything to go their way. Additionally, they may have to contend with a rapidly improving Argentina in their pool.

While Scotland may not be the favorites, many consider them serious dark horses to watch out for in this year’s Rugby World Cup. Despite being pitted against tough opponents like Ireland and South Africa, the Scottish team has impressive talent. With the likes of Stuart Hogg, a formidable force at fullback, and the lightning-fast winger Duhan van der Merwe, Scotland just might pull off a few surprises in the tournament.

How to watch Rugby World Cup 2023

There are plenty of places to bet on your favourite sports while also watching the Rugby World Cup on television or streaming. In the UK, ITVX is airing every game for free. Australian viewers can tune in to 9Now for all Wallabies matches, as well as the final. If you’re traveling abroad, simply use a VPN to unblock these streaming services.

In New Zealand, Sky Sport is the go-to channel for rugby, with some matches also available on Prime. As for our friends in the US, NBC and Peacock have got you covered.