Springbok prop Beast Mtawarira believes the 2019 World Cup in Japan could shape up as the most competitive tournament yet.

While his selection was never really in doubt, Mtawarira was officially confirmed as one of the five props in South Africa’s 31-man squad for the showpiece which kicks off next month.

Speaking to SARugbymag.co.za on Monday, Mtawarira said he is excited about the prospect of the World Cup being wide open in terms of competition.

‘I think it is going to be pretty competitive. It’s pretty open, there are obviously a lot of teams that believe they can win it, so from that point of view it is very exciting.’

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It’ll be Mtawarira’s third World Cup, having also played at the event under Peter de Villiers in 2011 when the Boks lost to Australia in the quarter-finals and Heyneke Meyer in 2015, when the Boks lost to the All Blacks in the semi-finals.

The 35-year-old admitted he hopes the Springboks can go all the way and win the Webb Ellis Cup this year.

‘I’m excited, man, it’s a huge honour and it never grows old to represent this great brand, great team and great nation. So from myself, I just want to go out there and give my utmost best to the team. I hope it’s third time lucky.’

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Photo: Archive