Everyone is trying to get a competitive advantage in sport these days. That's why so much money is invested in sports science and analysis. Teams know all of the strengths and weaknesses of their oppositions before they go into the game.
Which is why it's a little surprising that Australia left their tactics right out in the open during their final training session before a World Cup final. Scrum coach Mario Ledesma was photographed with the team's notes in his hand - with a significant portion of the Wallabies gameplan clearly visible.
Among the notes that you can see, the apparent gameplan is to target All Black No. 8 and former World player of the year Kieran Read at kick-offs, and to "get him rattled"; while Australia are aiming to expose New Zealand wingers Nehe Milner-Skudder and Julian Savea in the air:
On Kickoffs
Kickoff #5 and keep Poey [David Pocock] back (no Carter rage) (high as possible)
Kickoff receipt #4 Kieran Read (get him rattled)
Kick receipt shift off edge, forwards then snap to Snow or play
Own the air space, catch everything, chace everything, escort wingers!!!
On Defence
Carter running right to left
Nonu steps back on the inside when linespeed against
Badge defence (Wednesday morning)
Turnover spark in attack and defence
On Attack
Lineout attack gainline front foot speed. Expose Milner-Skudder and Savea under ball or in backfield
... with ball in hand, keep finding our shap. (Turnover kick long if space, or maintain...
You heard it here first. You can view the photos at the Daily Mail.
