From Mathieu Bastareaud to Richie Gray, RUCK.co.uk takes a look at some of the best players snubbed by their national team coaches for training squads ahead of the 2019 World Cup finals in Japan.
1. Mathieu Bastareaud (France)
The powerhouse centre, who was Les Bleus’s vice-captain during a disappointing Six Nations campaign, did not feature in the list of 31 and the six standby players who will start preparation for the tournament from June 25th.
2. Richie Gray (Scotland)
Gregor Townsend has left the door ajar for Richie Gray to make the Rugby World Cup but the big lock is one of several notable names not in the Scotland coach’s training squad for the tournament in Japan. However, he certainly improved his chances after helping Toulouse to the Top 14 title.
