10 September 2019, by: Quintin van Jaarsveld

RWC 2019: Top Tryscorer Contenders

New Zealand’s Julian Savea set the stage alight in England during the last Rugby World Cup, scoring a joint-record eight tries.

With the 2019 tournament in Japan less than a month away from kick-off, here are some of the players to watch in the top try scorers’ race.

The England winger was the top try-scorer at the 2019 Six Nations after finishing joint second last year. One of the few almost certain picks in Eddie Jones’ preferred starting XV, 29-year-old May is undoubtedly among the main men to watch at RWC 2019.

You’ll struggle to find a 23-year-old in rugby with a more impressive CV than the Irishman. Stockdale scored a record seven tries in the 2018 Six Nations before bagging one in the 16-9 win over New Zealand, Ireland’s first home victory over the All Blacks. He was also the joint top scorer in the 2018/19 European Champions Cup.

France are not in their finest era, but Jacques Brunel is fortunate to have an in-form winger to turn to in 32-year-old Huget. Having scored in four of France’s five Six Nations matches this year, he cannot be counted out at RWC 2019.

North’s consistency has played a big role in Wales’ recent form, with the winger scoring four tries in his last six tests. At 27 years old and in fantastic shape, now is his time to show that he can mix it with the very best in the world.

A year can make a huge difference in rugby and the case of Sharks winger Nkosi is a perfect example. He sat out much of 2018 due to injury while Aphiwe Dyantyi starred. Fast-forward to the World Cup build-up and the roles have been reversed. 23-year-old Nkosi has five tries from his last five tests including two incredible efforts in the Springboks’ most recent match against Argentina.

Israel Folau’s dispute with Rugby Australia has afforded the Wallabies’ other attacking talents a bigger platform to shine. The versatile Hodge is one player who has taken the chance with open arms. The joint-top try scorer at the 2019 Rugby Championship could surprise a few come World Cup time.

The 22-year-old scored his maiden test try in New Zealand’s 36-0 win over Australia. Having already finished as the top 2019 Super Rugby try scorer, his year is going from strength to strength. Steve Hansen could well hand Reece a regular starting birth at RWC 2019.

Another lethal 22-year-old winger, Ioane has struggled for form of late. Nevertheless, with 23 tries in 26 tests, he cannot be written off. Having been released to play Mitre 10 Cup rugby, he has the chance to get back to his best ahead of a tournament which could make or break his career.

Cheslin Kolbe – South Africa @

Makazole Mapimpi – South Africa @

George Bridge – New Zealand @

Damien Penaud – France @

Jack Nowell – England @

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