THE Rugby World Cup saw South Africa and host nation Japan emerge as the big winners in 2019. South Africa’s third coronation as world champions was a landmark because it was the first time they had won with a truly multi-racial side, led by flanker Siya Kolisi, the first black Springbok captain.
Japan also put down a huge marker as the first Asian hosts of the tournament, lighting it up with a scintillating brand of cut-andthrust rugby which relied more on speed and handling skills than battering- ram size and power.
By beating Ireland and Scotland they shook the world order and tu...