In the last 12 months a new world order has developed in international rugby which many believe could see a fresh name adorning the Webb Ellis trophy come November 22.

No team outside Australia, New Zealand and South Africa have ever been crowned world champions but the recent shift of power seems to have left England and France as favourites to break that trend.

There is little doubt that the 'holy trinity' from below the equator no longer enjoy the dominance they once did with England, the world's number one team, having beaten all three home and away since the last World Cup.

The Springboks are struggling to find a settled side while worryingly for two-time World Cup winners Australia, they appear to be going backwards on the eve of the tournament.

It is a completely different story on the other side of the Tasman Sea though where the All Blacks have put a recent wobble behind them to awaken hopes they can re-claim the trophy they won back in 1987.

They were dominant in the Tri-Nations to serve notice that there was method to the supposed madness of coach John Mitchell for ignoring Christian Cullen, Anton Oliver, Andrew Mehrtens and Taine Randell.

In their places came a new breed of All Black, flying wingers Joe Rokocoko and Doug Howlett setting the tournament alight alongside the likes of Carlos Spencer, Mils Muliaina, Aaron Mauger and outstanding hooker Keven Mealamu.

With the old guard seemingly being sent out to pasture, New Zealand now have a raw and powerful exuberance about them that could spell trouble for their World Cup opponents.

The Kiwis' appear to be hitting form at just the right time. England, and the other title hopefuls, should take note.

Squad: Ben Blair, Daniel Braid, Daniel Carter, Jerry Collins, Steve Devine, Corey Flynn, Mark Hammett, Dave Hewett, Carl Hoeft, Marty Holah, Doug Howlett, Chris Jack, Byron Kelleher, Leon MacDonald, Aaron Mauger, Richard McCaw, Keven Mealamu, Malili Muliaina, Justin Marshall, Kees Meeuws, Ma'a Nonu, Caleb Ralph, Joe Rokocoko, Rodney So'oialo, Greg Somerville, Carlos Spencer, Brad Thorn, Reuben Thorne, Tana Umaga, Ali Williams.