8th Sep 2011 | Rugby
Rugby World Cup: Vincent Clerc
Averages a try every other game. In a group with likely whipping boys Canada and Japan.
To be the top try scorer in the World Cup you need to get on the team list against one of the minnows. Pool A has the weakest teams, with Canada and Japan used to perennial thrashings. Tonga, although physical, could also ship tries. That narrows it down to group opponents New Zealand and France to provide the top try scorer.
The big problem is trying to predict the starting XV against the lesser teams. With four games in under a month you can expect squad rotation, especially in the easier games. Having studied the schedule I have plumped with French winger Vincent Clerc.
France begin against Japan and although it is a game they will win comfortably, expect a near full strength team. It is the first game of the World Cup therefore the players will be fresh and eager to start well. There is no reason to rest your players at this stage.
The 30-year-old winger has scored 25 tries in 50 matches for France, a phenomenal record. Experience in getting over the try line counts for a lot and at 28/1 he rates an excellent bet. Back him each way for ¼ odds for a top four finish in the market.
Odds correct at time of publishing: 17:44 8th Sep, 2011 but subject to change
