Road to Japan.

Former All Blacks captain Richie McCaw reckons Australia could be a surprise package at the World Cup in Japan later this year – just like they were in England back in 2015.

The Wallabies marched to the final back in 2015, with McCaw’s All Blacks stooping them at the final hurdle to win their second successive World Cup with the legendary flanker as captain.

Cheika’s side however, aren’t is a good shape as they were back then, having just lost one of their star players in Israel Folau – but as far as McCaw is concerned, the Aussies always “front up” when it really matters.

“Knowing Australians like I do, they are competitive, hugely competitive and they will get themselves in good situation to compete,” McCaw told Reuters.

“They have got ability to win games now against everyone so you don’t want to write them off at all.

“I think sometimes where people are not talking about them a lot leading up to (the World Cup), that’s the best thing you can be. You just come in and surprise everyone.

“But from a New Zealand point of view, there is never a surprise that they front up.”