Two Ireland players make the cut in our selection.
One of the tighter calls as it’s hard to look past New Zealand’s Beauden Barrett, but Keenan was at his typically consistent, excellent best in France. So assured when dealing with high balls and his footwork and balance under pressure is outstanding – think of his touchline catch against Scotland or his catch and finish to score the second of his two tries in the same game. Played every minute of Ireland’s five games and kept the fight going in the quarter-final defeat to New Zealand.
Dan Sheridan / INPHO South Africa’s Jesse Kriel makes a break against New Zealand. Dan Sheridan / INPHO / INPHOIreland’s player of the tournament. Aki played career-best rugby in France and was deservedly on the four-man shortlist for World Player of the Year. His ferocious workrate was pivotal to Ireland’s best performances, as Aki made more carries than any other back at the World Cup and scored five tries, the highlight his emphatic finish against New Zealand.
Dan Sheridan / INPHO Aaron Smith didn't get the fairytale ending but had an excellent tournament. Dan Sheridan / INPHO / INPHOAn honourable mention for Andrew Porter here but South Africa’s super-sub repeatedly stepped up as a game-changer in France.
Billy Stickland / INPHO France’s Peato Mauvaka is tackled by Franco Mostert of South Africa. Billy Stickland / INPHO / INPHOProbably not the standout six on the pitch at the tournament but when we look back at this World Cup in years to come, Kolisi will be one of the first names that springs to mind. A remarkable leader, the energy he gives to his teammates is invaluable and his engaging press conferences offer a glimpse into what he’s like in the dressing room.
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