Rugby Illustrated The World In Union | Page 29

Star Players

How They've Fared

Since the last world cup Georgia have gained plenty of recognition after upsetting top tier opponents in the form of Samoa and Italy. Since then numerous top European clubs in France, and England have been busy scouting and signing Georgian talent, which will only help the nation with the exposure to tier one national players. Scouts have particularly targeted members of the pack such as Toulon's star no. 8 Mamuka Gogodze who has adopted something of a cult following for his physicality, and tough stance on things. Another being prop Davit Kubriashvili who effectively lays the scrum platform for both Georgia, and Stade Français. That being said not all the stars are in the pack with captain Irakli Machkaneli leading from the wing, and representing local club Armazi.

Georgian rugby has climbed to new levels since the last world cup securing a position as Eastern Europe's best rugby team over rivals Romania, and Russia. The team has continually built support from fanatic supporters, culminating in regular capacity crowds in the 2014 season through harsh conditions in rain, hale, and even snow. Georgia played hard and well in order to sweep the 2014 European Championship, and showed spectacular spirit to beat rivals Romania and win the spot of Europe 1 in the RWC lining up against New Zealand, Argentina, Tonga, and Namibia. Expect a troop of hardened Georgia supporters in England to help raise the bar in Georgia's world cup campaign. Georgia will gain invaluable experience against the All Blacks, and have the potential to upset Argentina if they show their spirit. Furthermore Georgia will be familiar with Namibia, and Tonga after playing them numerous times in international tests.

Flickr (Fire_Eyes)

19/09 Vs Tonga

Kingsholm

25/09 Vs. Argentina

Kingsholm

02/10 Vs. New Zealand

Millenium Stadium

07/10 Vs, Namibia

Sandy Park