LIST: 5 players who've underperformed at the Rugby World Cup so far

Rugby News
Monday, 30 September 2019 at 08:56
underperfomed
While some players have exceeded expectations, some have failed to live up to the billing. Here are five Rugby World Cup heroes who have underperformed during the 2019 showpiece in Japan so far...

1. Owen Farrell (England)

Eddie Jones' star man hasn't really had a chance to showcase his best yet, starting at centre in the opening match against Tonga before playing that position once again as a replacement against the USA. In those two games, he's missed a combined six tackles. Much more comfortable at fly-half, England fans will be hoping to see the best of him against Argentina this Saturday.

2. Greig Laidlaw (Scotland)

Gregor Townsend clearly favours the experience of Laidlaw for big games, but his lack of a break and the unhurried nature of his service didn't offer Scotland much scope in their attack against Ireland. His box kicking was okay, but they will need much from him if they are even to escape the pool.

3. CJ Stander (Ireland)

Did very little with the ball in hand against Scotland and Japan when he should have been a bulldozing influence for the Irish.  He's lacked any real influence on proceedings and will need to be better if Ireland has any hopes of reaching a first-ever Rugby World Cup semi-final.

4. Faf de Klerk (South Africa)

Over-utilised the box kicks against the All Blacks, which most of the time failed to reach the target. In the second half, he made two snipping runs from the breakdown. However, the dreadful loose pass which Richie Mo’unga perfectly snapped up for the All Blacks first score summed up his performance. Didn't feature against Namibia.

5. Bernard Foley (Australia)

His selection against Wales had Wallabies fans baffled. He conceded two turnovers and missed two tackles before he was replaced after just 44 minutes. The Aussies were much improved after he went off. Considering he was the Wallabies star man four years ago, it's fair to say the 30-year-old playing far from his best.

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