Folau: Australia players anxious for World Cup announcement

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Israel Folau says there is plenty of tension around the Australia team as they wait for Michael Cheika to announce his 31-man squad for the Rugby World Cup.

During the recent Rugby Championship – which Australia won for the first-time as a four-nation competition – Cheika rotated his squad to give him the chance to look at every player in contention for the World Cup.

Australia travel to England for the showpiece tournament - which starts next month - looking to become the first nation to win three titles, the Wallabies currently tied with New Zealand and South Africa with two triumphs.

Cheika is expected to cut down his training party in the coming days, with fullback Folau admitting the competition for places has left every player on edge.

"I'm sure some of the guys would be a bit nervous, waiting around today or before they know whether they're in the squad or not," Folau said.

"But you've just got to back what the coach has planned and ready for the squad and I'm sure whoever gets picked will do a good job.

"It's just unfortunate you can only take 31 players over there. Some guys will have to miss out.

"We don't know what Michael's thinking. I'm sure whoever he picks, they'll do a great job."

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