Next year now: Eight bold rugby predictions for 2019

Rugby News

by Steven Smith

Wednesday, 02 January 2019 at 16:04

bySteven Smith

Add as a preferred source on Google

Following an enthralling 2019, we make our predictions for this year.

1. Warren Gatland takes over the Wallabies

He is a contender to replace both Steve Hansen at the helm of his homeland and Eddie Jones in the highly paid England job. But, if Rugby Australia can afford him, he also appeals as a steady and sensible choice to coach the Wallabies.

warren gatland lions coach 2017 rugby union british and irish lions 3781167

2. Japan to shock the world again

Their win over the Springboks in 2015 was one of world sport’s greatest upsets and while opponents will be on guard this time they will beat Russia in Pool A, should beat Samoa and might beat Scotland.

Rugby Union - South Africa v Japan - IRB Rugby World Cup 2015 Pool B - Brighton Community Stadium, Brighton, England - 19/9/15Japan celebrate victory after the matchReuters / Eddie KeoghLivepic[/caption]

3. Eddie Jones to depart immediately after the World Cup

Despite signing an extension until 2021 and apparently aid the transition from one boss to another, but it seems an illogical thing to do.

Eddie Jones Head Coach of England before the six Nations Championship match, between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, London , UK, on the 17th March 2017. (Photo:Dean Lancaster/PPAUK)[/caption]

4. Saracens to win the double

Billy Vunipola of Saracens celebrates after winning during the Aviva Premiership Final between Exeter Chiefs and Saracens at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, London on May 26. - PHOTO: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK/Aviva[/caption]

5. USA to win 2 group stage matches in the World Cup

LONDON, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 07: USA fans soak up the atmosphere during the 2015 Rugby World Cup Pool B match between South Africa and USA at the Olympic Stadium on October 7, 2015 in London, United Kingdom. (Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)[/caption]

6. Quade Cooper to star for the Rebels and push for a World Cup place

7. Danny Cipriani is selected for the Rugby World Cup

Strictly Editorial Use Only - No Merchandising.Mandatory Credit: Photo by Patrick Khachfe/JMP/REX/Shutterstock (4962910ai)Danny Cipriani of England looks on after the matchEngland v France, United Kingdom - 15 Aug 2015[/caption]

8. Ireland to win the Rugby World Cup. Who do you think will win it?!

Johnny Sexton of Ireland celebrates after the six Nations Championship match, between England and Ireland at Twickenham Stadium, London , UK, on the 17th March 2017. (Photo:Dean Lancaster/PPAUK)[/caption]