USA name World Cup squad

The United States have named a 30-man World Cup squad that includes seven survivors from the 2003 tournament.

Coach optimistic of good showing in France

The United States have named a 30-man World Cup squad that includes seven survivors from the 2003 tournament.

Second rows Luke Gross and Alec Parker are selected to play in their third global showpiece, while former Llanelli Scarlets fly-half Mike Hercus is also included.

Coach Peter Thorburn is optimistic of a good showing in France, despite a lack of warm-up fixtures against elite international opposition.

"The programme we have been allowed to put together by USA Rugby has been as good a preparation as any non-professional team at the World Cup will have," Thorburn said in a statement.

"Perhaps, in hindsight, one or two more games together against stiff opposition would have sharpened up our team to a level we have to attain very promptly in France but, if we show the expected improvements, and we shall, then our performances will be our judgment."

The United States are drawn in Pool A alongside defending champions England, South Africa, Samoa and Tonga. They take on England in their opening fixture in Lens on September 8.

United States squad:
Forwards: Mike MacDonald, Matekitonga Moeakiola, Chris Osentowski, John Vitale, Blake Burdette, Owen Lentz, Luke Gross, Mike Mangan, Hayden Mexted, Alec Parker, Inaki Basauri, Mark Aylor, Tasi Mounga, Todd Clever, Dan Payne, Louis Stanfill, Henry Bloomfield
Backs: Chad Erskine, Mike Petri, Mike Hercus, Valenese Malifa, Phillip Eloff, Vaha Esikia, Thretton Palamo, Albert Tuipulotu, Paul Emerick, Takudzwa Ngwenya, Salesi Sika, Chris Wyles, Francois Viljoen