Stirling Mortlock (Australia)
Australia will expect big things from its captain and midfield general at the World Cup, and he is unlikely to disappoint.
Mortlock has taken to leadership duties with ease, playing an influential role when the Wallabies reassured watchers world-wide that New Zealand can be beaten by toppling the All Blacks during an intriguing Tri-Nations clash in Melbourne.
A rock-solid defender, strong runner and prolific line-breaker, Mortlock can only hope the Wallabies backs division - better than New Zealand's on its day - will receive enough quality possession from the forwards to prosper.