By DANIEL GILHOOLY in MELBOURNE
The All Blacks are out of the gates, but to suggest they are setting the pace with their on-field performances is stretching the realms of optimism.
The Melbourne Spring Carnival is creating far more interest here than rugby's greatest show, so it's appropriate to compare the form
of the best teams in the early stages of the tournament to a horse race - a four-horse race to be exact.
Champing at the bit, the All Blacks looked short of a gallop in beating Italy and Canada.
The defeat of Tonga gives them the appearance of a pre-race favourite who was pushed wide but has now settled on the rails, hoping an opening will appear upon entering the home straight.
No rugby punter would be surprised that England, France, Australia and New Zealand are accelerating clear of a mixed field.
Traditional smart runners South Africa are not expected to have the finish of the foursome, who will end up top of their respective pools.
The All Blacks' biggest early challenge will come against Wales, a team they beat by 52 lengths (points) in heavier conditions four months ago.
Looking like they had been nobbled in the early stages, trainer John Mitchell must be happy that potentially debilitating injuries to Tana Umaga, Aaron Mauger and Ali Williams are clearing.
Midfield and lock were shaping as fragile points before a trio of Cantabrians - lock Brad Thorn, and midfielders Daniel Carter and Leon MacDonald - showed their short form lines this year mean nothing.
MacDonald's perfect goalkicking, gutsy defence and balanced running leave him the obvious option if Umaga cannot return to his best. It makes it all the more disappointing that he will be seen only on the circuits of Japan next year.
Carter and Mauger are second five-eighths colts who would leave most overseas owners green with envy.
A top XV is becoming apparent. From the players who trampled over Tonga, add winger Joe Rokocoko, No 8 Jerry Collins, flanker Richie McCaw and hooker Keven Mealamu. Then think about including Mauger, lock Chris Jack and prop Dave Hewett, but first consider who should be scratched to make room.
A more settled steed are the English, a bunch of veteran clydesdales complemented by the left hoof of Jonny Wilkinson.
Whether their taxing workouts against South Africa and Samoa prove to be a help or hindrance will be seen soon, when the whips start cracking.
Perhaps the big movers are hosts Australia. Traditionally primed to peak for the big prizemoney races, they have begun their defence by putting a couple of rank outsiders firmly in their place.
France are, what else, the dark horses. More professional than ever before, they have proven many times they can tear up any form book.
The semifinalists look a safe bet. Beyond that, have your photo-finish camera handy.
- NZPA
By DANIEL GILHOOLY in MELBOURNE
The All Blacks are out of the gates, but to suggest they are setting the pace with their on-field performances is stretching the realms of optimism.
The Melbourne Spring Carnival is creating far more interest here than rugby's greatest show, so it's appropriate to compare the form
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