Bonjour, France. The world is calling. At last, it's finally here. Today, the 10th Rugby World Cup roars to life as host nation France clashes with three-time champions New Zealand in the heart of Paris. Expect fireworks as two of the pre-tournament favourites meet in the opening game.
But what should we fans look out for in World Cup 2023? Gone are the days when teams could be easily surprised by a sudden tactical shift. Thanks to the extensive analysis since the inaugural 1987 tournament, most teams have honed their strategies over the past four years. Yet, with evolving laws and ever-expanding coaching teams, World Cups still have a knack for springing the unexpected.
Join us as we delve into some of the more interesting trends that could define the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
The "TMO Bunker" Revolution
Controversial decisions can alter the course of a match, and this World Cup introduces the ground-breaking "TMO bunker" system. Designed to enhance decision-making accuracy and ensure smooth gameplay, this system has already made waves in pre-tournament matches.
The Foul Play Review Official (FRPO) will be on hand to scrutinize dubious foul play incidents that aren't clear-cut red card offences. Think of it as a modern-day 'sin bin' where decisions are meticulously reviewed. Players must sit on a “naughty step” as the FRPO decides if the player returns to the
field of play.
Owen Farrell Red Card 🟥
Upgraded from Yellow Card after bunker review system. #ENGvWAL pic.twitter.com/94pD0o93at— Darren (@SaffasRugby) August 12, 2023
READ ALSO: When The Rose Of Tralee Was Ireland's Rugby World Cup Anthem
The Art of Kicking
It's often said, "The team that kicks the most, wins the game." But this World Cup might challenge that notion. Intelligent, strategic kicking will be pivotal. Keep an eye out for the tactical 50:22 kick and midfield box kick.
Five 2nd half kicks that probably won the test match - the banana kick/first tournament 50:22/cheeky box kick & 2 kicks for space. #IREvFRA #IRLFRA #SixNations #CoachEducation #Rugby pic.twitter.com/PDjsdOOdH0
— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) February 12, 2023
And expect innovative set-piece kicking strategies, like Samoa's recent genius move against Ireland, positioning their 2nd row across the pitch and launching a crossfield kick.
Some very clever thinking by Samoa v Ireland - Got great return from their Right Channel kicking - Putting a 2nd Row out Wide on a 5man Lineout. England backfield could struggle with this in last Pool Game . #IREvSAM #RWC2023 pic.twitter.com/21y2yU2CCa
— Brett Igoe (@brettruganalyst) August 28, 2023
A little loophole I'd like to see World Rugby fix. Toulouse & France do it from Kick returns - Leaving a player ahead of kicker - waiting for catcher to run 5m. Correct decision by Barnes & AR here #LEIvTOU #LEINST #Rugby pic.twitter.com/WeER8W4l0J
— Brett Igoe (@brett_igoe) May 1, 2023
The Bench Phenomenon
The chatter about South Africa's 7/1 sub-split has taken up much of the pre-tournament hype, but bench strategies will undoubtedly shape each game's result. South Africa's pioneering approach to bench management was evident in their victorious 2019 campaign, with the 'Bomb Squad' – six robust forwards – making a game-changing impact.
— Jared Wright (@jaredwright17) August 30, 2023
The challenge? Balancing between forwards and backs to cover positions, tackle injuries, and ensure maximum impact. Watch out for dynamic players like France's back-row forward Sekou Macalou, whose speed matches that of any of the French backs.
Dupont's Masterclass
The stage seems tailor-made for the 'Le Petit General' – Antoine Dupont. Dominating European rugby for four years, Dupont's iconic inside support play is set to wreak havoc on defences. The world waits to witness the sheer power he brings to this World Cup.
#HeinekenChampionsCup week & an epic battle in Dublin #LEIvTOU #LEINST. Looking at Dupont's 5 assists v Sharks . The inside support lines are outstanding with the double threat of Ramos' support inside Dupont. pic.twitter.com/WX58dDP2qo
— Brett Igoe (@brett_igoe) April 25, 2023
Was a real shame to see this try pulled back for a knock-on at the ruck.
Dupont's prescient support line, and the way Fickou straightens the attack and fixes defenders while staying alive for the pass-back, are top class here#FRAARG pic.twitter.com/WhKV6izQEb— EK Rugby Analysis (@ek_rugby) November 7, 2021
🇫🇷 Cette action française est encore meilleure vue du ciel 🦅#SixNations | #SixNations2023 pic.twitter.com/6XT2M90meR
— Six Nations (FR) (@SixNations_FR) March 19, 2023
The Unexpected Upset
Every World Cup has its share of jaw-dropping results. Be it Japan's triumph over Ireland in 2019 or Western Samoa's victory against Wales in 1991, the underdogs always have a tale to tell. The Pacific Island teams – Tonga, Samoa, and Fiji – aren't just participants; they're formidable contenders. With enhanced coaching
and preparation, they're primed for an upset. Will Fiji stun Wales this weekend? Can Samoa topple a vulnerable England? Or will Tonga spring a surprise against Scotland or Ireland? As Fiji's recent performance against England proves, dismissing these teams would be a grave mistake.
𝐅𝐢𝐣𝐢 𝐬𝐞𝐜𝐮𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐫𝐢𝐜 𝐟𝐢𝐫𝐬𝐭 𝐰𝐢𝐧 𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐄𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐰𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐣𝐮𝐬𝐭 𝐬𝐢𝐱 𝐦𝐢𝐧𝐮𝐭𝐞𝐬 𝐥𝐞𝐟𝐭 𝐨𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐜𝐤 ⏱
🏉 A pass from Miramira to Ravutaumada was 14.1m, 1.4s and 38kph. His offload was 1.1m.
💥The conversion to finish… pic.twitter.com/EjPzjdt2qI— Summer Nations Series (@autumnnations) August 31, 2023
UNBELIEVABLE!
On home turf, Japan have achieved an incredible win over Ireland! Shizuoka is rocking!
FT: Japan 19-12 Ireland #RWC2019 #JPNvIRE pic.twitter.com/ng798ka6gp— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) September 28, 2019
Fasten your seatbelts, rugby enthusiasts! The 2023 Rugby World Cup promises to be a roller coaster of emotions, strategies, and unforgettable moments.
