This week, the official Rugby League World Cup Team of the Tournament was revealed.
Most agreed with the majority of the team but there were some surprise omissions.
So, we’ve had our own stab at selecting a team of the tournament. Here’s our picks:
Fullback: Joey Manu
The Golden Boot winner, Manu has been magic in the World Cup and his class was best summarised when he took a close game between the Kiwis and Lebanon and turned it into a comprehensive win for New Zealand as he devasted the Cedars with footwork and skill.
Wingers: Dom Young & Josh Addo-Carr
Dom Young scored nine tries in the tournament including four in one half against Greece. His brace against Samoa in the opening game was really special especially the first try he scored in the tournament. Meanwhile, Josh Addo-Carr has equalled the record for the most tries in a tournament with a game to spare. His try against New Zealand was a special show of pace.
Centres: Tim Lafai & Stephen Crichton
Salford Red Devils star Tim Lafai may have not been picked in the initial Samoa squad for the tournament but since coming into the squad he has been exceptional scoring tries for fun including two tries in the semi-final win over England. Speaking of that semi-final, Crichton scored a brilliant brace that game as well as the winning drop goal in golden point not even from in front of the sticks.
Halfbacks: Jarome Luai & George Williams
Luai has perhaps been the tournament’s best player. He has picked up the Man of the Match in three of Samoa’s four wins including their win over England in the semi-finals. His side step has devastated both England and Tonga. Meanwhile, George Williams’ running game has caused every team problems. His kicking game has been impressive from close range. He was very nearly England’s hero against Samoa in the semi-final.
Props: Tom Burgess & Chris Hill
They may not be playing in the final, but these two have been sensational every game they’ve played giving England a superb platform every game and were busting up defences. Burgess was also scoring tries for fun.
Hooker: Edwin Ipape
Leigh Leopards star Ipape was a dangerous force for Papua New Guinea in the tournament. His strong running game showed Super League fans what they have to fear in 2023.
Second-rowers: Cameron Murray & Liam Martin
These two were the back bone of Australia’s semi-final win over New Zealand. Murray got the winning try against the Kiwis but it was Martin’s inspired defensive display that provided the backbone of their win. The two were devastating all tournament.
Loose-Forward: Victor Radley
As was Victor Radley. A physical presence for England all tournament he also provided great skill in the middle of the field as he fed the ball out wide after sucking in the middle of the opposition. Certainly a mainstay in the England moving forward.
