4. Richie Gray (Scotland): Despite regaining his fitness, didn’t want to go to Japan unless he was a key part of Gregor Townsend’s plans.
5. Devin Toner (Ireland): Regardless of the reasoning for his omission, it’s disappointing nonetheless for Toner, who had previously been an integral part of the Irish forward pack, but missed out as a result of Jean Kleyn’s ability to cover the back row.
Imagine being Devin Toner 🇮🇪 putting your heart and soul into Irish rugby for years and missing out on a place at the World Cup to a South African🇿🇦who only became eligible to play for Ireland a month ago😳Joke🙄😔🏉 #RWC2019 pic.twitter.com/2iOf9IKEZk
— Eamon Fitzpatrick (@fitzpatrickeamo) September 2, 2019
6. Chris Robshaw (England): Lewis Ludlam’s selection ahead of the 66-cap veteran may surprise some. At 33 years of age, this will surely spell the end of the former captain’s international career.
7. Jordi Murphy (Ireland)
8. Facundo Isa (Argentina): The powerhouse Toulon ball carrier was a shock non-selection as coach Mario Ledesma favoured Argentina-based players. The Pumas are blessed with quality loose forwards but this was a strange call.
Incredibly no place for Facundo Isa in Argentina #RWC2019 squad pic.twitter.com/FYrzqzUmH9
— Mike Pearce Rugby (@MPsportsdragon) August 20, 2019