Rugby World Cup preview: The four Wallabies that simply have to fire in Japan

Yes, rugby is very much a team game. But these four Wallabies will have more pressure on their shoulders than the others as they hold the key to success at next week’s World Cup in Japan.

Kurtley Beale of Australia poses in Odawara, Kanagawa, Japan.

THE WALLABIES PLAYERS FUNDAMENTAL TO SUCCESS AT THE RUGBY WORLD CUP

* Kurtley Beale

So often a barometer of the Wallabies’ fortunes, the mercurial Beale should find the hard grounds of Japan to his liking in the No.15 jersey worn for so long by Israel Folau.

Can expect plenty of high ball questions after botching that aspect in last month’s loss to the All Blacks in Auckland.

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Samu Kerevi of Australia high fives local children following training at Odawara Stadium.

* Samu Kerevi

Strike weapon No.1 for the Wallabies.

Tackles busts, clean breaks and offloads were a regular feature in Super Rugby from the trimmed-down inside centre and it continued onto the Test stage.

Getting him the ball must be a priority.

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Drew Mitchell and Stephen Hoiles have released a new episode

— Wallabies’ positives vs. Samoa & their RWC Snub XV

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* David Pocock

It should be no surprise the champion flanker hit the ground running against Samoa after six months out with injury.

The big question now is how to use him in Japan.

It’s hard to imagine the Wallabies starting without him.

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Rory Arnold of Australia gathers the ball during a training session at Odawara Stadium.

* Rory Arnold

Like Kerevi, has gone from fringe selection to a gold-standard Test performer this year.

At the heart of the Brumbies’ forward power and brings the right mix of aggression and aerial prowess.

Originally published as Rugby World Cup preview: The four Wallabies that simply have to fire in Japan