Georgia

This tournament could be a turning point in Georgia's rugby history. It doesn't get more important than the 7th October 2023. This date would have been circled by Georgian administrators, coaches, players and fans well in advance. This is the day that Georgia will play Wales at the World Cup. Georgia have already beaten Wales in the past twelve months during the Autumn Nations Series in Cardiff. However, the RWC is where it really matters and the shockwave will be felt globally if the Lelos can snatch a win.

Georgia have been knocking on the door of the Six Nations for over a decade. They have won five Grand Slams in six years and haven't lost a match for 29 games. Last year saw wins over both Wales and Italy who finished fifth and sixth respectively in the Six Nations this year. With reports that Georgia could be shut out of tier 1 rugby until 2031 due to the plans of a new World League, they'll want to make a case for their inclusion. It's now or never.

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The Lelos have always been renowned for their physical pack. They love to scrummage and maul. The French Top 14 is saturated with Georgian props. Over the years they were heavily dependent on the backrower and captain, Mamuka Gorgodze. Unfortunately the Gorgodze era is over and a new generation is pushing Georgia on. Chief among them is the talented 21-year old fullback, Davit Niniashvili,  who plies his train at Lyon. Niniashvili was 3rd for metres per 80 in the Top 14 last season.* If Georgia can lay down a marker this World Cup, it will be impossible for them to be ignored.

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*Data powered by Oval Insights

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