London - Australia have carelessly allowed their blueprint for beating New Zealand in Saturday’s Rugby World Cup final to be leaked.
Parts of the Wallabies’ game plan were captured by a photographer at Friday’s captain’s run at Twickenham, including defensive, attacking and kick-off strategies.
Based on the briefing notes - which were exposed during an open training session - Australia coach Michael Cheika (right) has ordered his players to single out All Black No 8 Kieran Read at the kick-off, issuing the instruction: ‘Kick-off receipt #4 Kieran Read (get him rattled)’
In a bid to lift the Webb Ellis Cup for a third time, Australia will also target New Zealand wingers Julian Savea and Nehe Milner-Skudder - who was the focus of South Africa’s high-ball strategy - as weak links in defence.
‘Line-out attack gain line front foot speed,’ read the notes. ‘Expose Milner-Skudder and Savea under ball or in backfield.’
Daily Mail