Here, we’ll shine a light on five of the world’s up and coming rugby players that are heading – from all indications – into star-level stratospheres in 2010, perfect timing for the 2011 World Cup just around the corner.
Dan Lydiate
Team: Wales (Newport-Gwent Dragons)
Only 23 years old, this young Welsh star already has had a stellar career. In 2007, he suffered a serious neck injury which abruptly cut that season short. Looks like he’s bounced back brightly. In fact, it’s likely he’ll be fellow-Welsh Martyn Williams’ successor on the national front. Things that seem likely for this upstart: a Six Nations campaign and a possible (probable?) top four spot on the Magners League.
Courtney Lawes
Team: England (Northampton Saints)
This Saints star looks ready to shine. Looming a little above the two meter mark, he can still outrun most of his teammates. This guy’s fast, really fast , and if he doesn’t start for the Saints come November, we’ll be really shocked.
Robert Ebersohn
Team: South Africa (Free State Cheetahs)
Only 20 year old, this guy decided to turn down an opportunity to play in 2009’s Super 14 rugby, instead opting to be part of Paul Treu’s World Series. In the course of the 2008/2009 season, this up and comer has become a standout. Many believe he’ll be Springboks’ long term solution in the jersey #12.
David Pocock
Team: Australia (Western Force)
Well known, Zimbabwean-born Pocock has already astounded during the course of the past year, and looks like he’s ready to go toe to toe with living legend George Smith for the Wallabies’ #7 jersey.
Aaron Cruden
Team: New Zealand (Manawatu – Hurricanes)
Having survived a testicular cancer scare and many chemotherapy bouts only a scant year ago, Cruden has return to the sport with fanfare. He’s already been named the International Rugby Board’s Young Player of the Year in 2009, and undoubtedly more accolades will follow in the 2010 Super 14 campaign.
Itching to place your wagers on the 2011 World Cup? No worries – begin your online gambling campaign now at any of our recommended, premium online sportsbook such as BetUS, Bodog Sportsbook, or Sportsbook.com.
