re: The BIG RUGBY thread: World Rugby now (live & on demand) via ESPN3/app

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20 biggest names to miss World Cup cut


Charles Piutau (New Zealand): Arguably the best player not selected for the tournament, Piutau was desperately unlucky to miss out on the All Blacks squad. Their form winger in Tests this year, he also covers full-back and centre, but missed out to newcomers Nehe Milner-Skudder and Waisake Naholo. A move to Ulster next year likely counted against him.

Francois Trinh-Duc (France): Judging by the standing ovation he got from the opposition fans at Pau last weekend, the decision to omit Trinh-Duc wasn't unanimous in French circles. Arguably les Bleus' best fly-half, he was cut at the last minute, four years after lighting up the final from the bench.

Christian Lealiifano (Australia): Australia's best back in Super Rugby according to Wallabies assistant Stephen Larkham, but strangely Lealiifano didn't even get a chance to show what he can do. Not a huge name, but with his ability at 10 and 12, probably deserved a spot ahead of Quade Cooper.

Steffon Armitage (England): It's a tired argument but it seems a real waste that arguably England's best flank will be missing from the game's biggest tournament. A week after England were bullied at the breakdown against France in Paris, they would love to have Armitage's limpet-like ability on the deck.

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