Australia lock warns Georgia could sting them if they under-estimate them

Australian lock Richie Arnold says Australia will "get stung" if they under-estimate their first Rugby World Cup opponents Georgia on Saturday at the Stade de France.

The Australians have lost all five Tests this year and so arrive with no great expectations back home that they will be lifting the Webb-Ellis trophy for a third time come October 28.

Georgia pose a stern test of even the Wallabies' ability to qualify from a pool that also includes an in-form Fiji and Wales.

Arnold says they can't underestimate Georgia, if they sleep on them, they will get stung.

Australia head coach Eddie Jones who guided the Wallabies to the 2003 World Cup final where they lost to a last-gasp Jonny Wilkinson drop goal in extra-time has opted largely for youth.

However, at 33 Arnold is a rare exception and only won his first cap earlier this year, following his twin brother Rory in being capped at Test level.

Australia will play Georgia at 4am Sunday.

The RWC kicks off Saturday with hosts France taking on New Zealand at 7.15am.

Source: rugby.com.au