Georgia select teenager Vasil Lobzhanidze in World Cup squad

Georgia scrum-half Vasil Lobzhanidze could become the youngest player to appear at a World Cup after he was named in their 31-man squad.

Lobzhanidze turns 19 on October 14 and if he plays in any of Georgia's pool games he will become the first 18-year-old to play in the tournament.

While Lobzhanidze has just five caps to his name, Georgia's squad includes a host of experienced names, such as Toulon back row Mamuka Gorgodze, who captains the side.

Tighthead trio Davit Zirakashvili, Dudu Kubriashvili and Levan Chilachava ply their trade for Clermont, Stade Francais and Toulon respectively.

Sale Sharks hooker Shalva Mamukashvili is also included, while full-back Merab Kvirikashvili will add to his 84 caps.

"We've been building a competitive squad to compete at the Rugby World Cup since 2012," said Georgia head coach Milton Haig.

"The selection process has been ongoing for some months and we have finally come down to the 31 players the will take part.

"The team is a mix of very experienced players and young exciting talent with two players, Merab Kvirikashvili and Giorgi Chkhaidze participating in their fourth World Cup.

"The squad was debated extensively by the selectors and due to the fact that we have built depth in positions over the last four years, some very good players missed the initial selection.

"However, as every other coach has already said after naming their RWC squads, the players that missed out could become very important and could play a major role if there are injuries.

"Our objective in the last two months was to select and train the 'best ever prepared Georgian rugby team to compete at a World Cup' and we certainly think that's what we have achieved."

Georgia begin their World Cup campaign against Tonga on September 19.

Georgia World Cup squad

Forwards: Kakha Asieshvili, Jaba Bregvadze, Levan Chilachava, Giorgi Chkhaidze, Levan Datunashvili, Mamuka Gorgodze (c), Vito Kolelishvili, Dudu Kubriashvili, Lasha Lomidze, Simon Maisuradze, Shalva Mamukashvili, Kote Mikautadze, Mikheil Nariashvili, Giorgi Nemsadze, Shalva Sutiashvili, Giorgi Tkhilaishvili, Davit Zirakashvili.

Backs: Giorgi Aptsiauri, Giorgi Begadze, Muraz Giorgadze, Davit Katcharava, Lasha Khmaladze, Vazha Khutsishvili, Merab Kvirikashvili, Vasil Lobzhanidze, Lasha Malaghuradze, Tamaz Mtchedlidze, Giorgi Pruidze, Merab Sharikadze, Sandro Todua, Beka Tsiklauri.