Scrum of the Earth /

Japan

Japan has found an overseas loophole in the squad selection small print after including four New Zealanders and three Tongan’s for their assault at the Rugby World Cup.

One to watch: Hirotoki Onozawa
Most likely to become a sumo-wrestler: Tomokazu Soma
Least likely to appear in a Hollywood Kung-fu blockbuster: Hitoshi Ono

Tonga

The man formerly known as Nili Latu (Otenili Langilangi) will lead an experienced Tonga outfi joined by fellow journeymen Inoke Afeaki, Pierre Hola and Finau Maka.

One to watch: Vungakoto Lilo
Most likely to become Tonga’s single biggest export: Sillo Martens
Least likely to become the countries latest entry into the Guinness Book of World Records: Viliami Ma’asi

Fiji

2003 star, Rupeni Caucauinbua is absent following his cannabis ban, but Fiji are looking towards the future after naming 15 players with less than ten caps.

One to watch: Isoa Neivua

Most likely to stick to 7’s: Filimone Bolavucu

Least likely to be known for anything else but rugby: Isoa Domolailai

Samoa

Stalwart Brian Lima heads into a record fifth World Cup for Samoa, who hope that the trio of Tuiliagi’s can run rampant. The side also contains last year’s Guiness Premiership top try-scorer, David Lemi.  

One to watch: Lome Fa'atua
Most likely to end up playing for New Zealand:  Alessana Tuilagi
Least likely to want to run into down a dark alley: Jerry Meafou

USA

Seven USA players from 2003 are back for another crack at the Rugby World Cup whip with Luke Gross and Alec Parker gluttons for further punishment having also played in 1999.

One to watch: Nese Walifa
Most likely to give big hi-fives and encourage huddling: Louis Stanfill
Least likely to be able to find Samoa and Tonga on a map: Mike Mangan