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RWC Fives: Best beards of 2015

There have been some proud beard wearers in Rugby World Cup history, from neatly trimmed Australian Tom Lawton (1987) via the ‘Caveman’ of France’s Sebastian Chebal (2007) to Canadian Adam Kleeberger’s ‘finger-in-a-plug-socket’ (2011).

But this year there are more hairy heroes than ever before and together they have taken it to an all new level. So, after having time to evaluate them during the group games, here’s five of the best.

RAY BARKWILL (Canada)

Canada are kings of the beard and the team has so many to pick from. Barkwill, who hails from Niagara Falls, and team-mate Hubert Buydens definitely combine to form the most bearded front row at the World Cup. But Barkwill pipped his team-mate to the list as his bald head makes the messy beard stand out more than any other player at the World Cup.

JAKE BALL (Wales)

Ball’s beard comes by royal appointment, having been tickled by Prince William during the Rugby World Cup welcome ceremony. He may have been born in England and raised in Australia, but the beard is 100% Welsh. He grew it last season and raised $3,000 for charity but then shaved it off. Fortunately, it grew it back again in time to grace the pitches of England this year.

MARTIN CASTROGIOVANNI (Italy)

This beard even has its own Facebook page - admittedly with only one like. Arguably one of Rugby’s finest beard wearers, the long hair and dishevelled look puts Castrogiovanni on a par with Chebal’s legendary caveman effort. Like Chebal, he too sported his facial growth long before it was deemed fashionable and takes a mighty fine portrait to this day.

CHARLIE FAUMUINA (New Zealand)

This one is so long All Blacks coach Ian Foster joked it would need shears to cut it. It’s gone once before when, more than two years after last being clean-shaven for his wedding in 2012, Faumuina had it shaved for charity in 2014. Back in all its glory, photos appear to show that it is now even getting special treatment in training.

SCOTT FARDY (Australia)

Started for a bit of fun before the Super Rugby season this year, Fardy’s chin-mane became a lucky charm for club side the Brumbies as they enjoyed a run of impressive results. It got him noticed too, with Rugby World Cup selection in the Wallabies squad.