Hosts England have announced their final 31-man squad with a number of surprises - not least the inclusion of former NRL star Sam Burgess.
Burgess and versatile Henry Slade are included as two of England's centres, that also feature Six Nations sensation Jonathan Joseph and veteran Brad Barritt. That means Burgess is included ahead of the more experienced Billy Twelvetress and Luther Burrell.
There's also no place for Nick Easter or Danny Cipriani, despite the maverick's impressive cameo against France last week.
Unlike Australia, England have picked a more traditional breakdown with three scrumhalves and hookers, whilst having three players who have played outhalf at a high level in the squad as well.
England have announced their squad for #RWC2015 http://t.co/LRZEY3nBtL#Carrythemhome 🌹 pic.twitter.com/F35BHKnWRE
— England Rugby (@EnglandRugby) August 27, 2015
Brian O'Driscoll already went on record about his opinion of Burgess, and thinks its a very interesting selection:
No place Cipriani... Interesting selection. Pleased to see Slade picked and intrigued to see how Burgess goes.
— Brian O'Driscoll (@BrianODriscoll) August 27, 2015
See Also: Brian O'Driscoll Is Having None Of The Hype For England's Next Big Hope
See Also: Paul O'Connell Captains A Strong Ireland Team In His Final Home International
Picture credit: Matt Browne / SPORTSFILE
