New name on the trophy?

On the field, the 2019 edition promises to be the most unpredictable of all. There have only been four different winners of the eight previous tournaments. That could change in 2019, writes Craig Ray.

For the first time, one of the sport’s major powers do not enjoy home ground advantage at a World Cup and each team will have to adjust to Japan’s culture. High humidity and heavy rain are likely to neutralise the advantages some teams might hold over others.

Over the past four years, since the All Blacks cruised to the 2015 title, the gap between the top teams in the world appears to have narrowed. Two points or fewer have decided the last four clashes between the Springboks and All Blacks.

The All Blacks have lost to Ireland twice since 2015 and to Australia. They also lost to the British & Irish Lions, which featured many of England and Wales’ best.

The confidence Lions players gained from their titanic 2017 series has given those players a boost. They know the All Blacks are beatable.

Despite that Wales and Ireland are realistic contenders and France and Argentina are dangerous floaters, there is an air of predictability about the pool phase.

The Springboks and All Blacks will both emerge from pool B regardless of the outcome of their opener in Yokohama on Saturday. Namibia, Canada and Italy simply are not good enough to beat either of the traditional powers.

It is difficult to see past Ireland and Scotland emerging from pool A, though host nation Japan might have another upset in them.

Pool C is the most intriguing with England, France and Argentina vying for two qualifying places. England should come through as pool winners with the clash between France and Argentina on Saturday deciding the runners-up.

Wales and Australia are likely to emerge from pool D, which also features Fiji, Georgia and Uruguay.