AUSTRALIA head coach Michael Cheika views next year's World Cup as a realistic target for Sam Burgess.
Burgess was officially unveiled by Aviva Premiership club Bath on Thursday afternoon after completing a high-profile switch from rugby league.
The 25-year-old's union debut has been delayed by the fractured cheekbone and eye socket suffered in the NRL Grand Final earlier this month, but Cheika predicts he will make a seamless transition once fit.
"I've been fortunate enough to have a bit to do with Sam back in Australia and he's a very good player," Cheika said.
"His enthusiasm and passion for the game is going to far and away supersede any issues he will have with knowledge and learning the game.
"If any player can make the World Cup from a zero base in the time he has, then he can.
"It's his hunger to learn and his individual skills that set him apart."
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