The exodus of prominent New Zealand superstars and almost-superstars to Euro-heaven pastures and the subsequent influx of BRAND NEW unpronounceables into the New Zealand franchises is the most exciting aspect of this year’s Super 14. A competition that, I reiterate, comes around earlier and earlier with Carling Cup-like monotony.
Australian sides have a slightly more familiar look to them – but by comparison the South African teams look notably experienced – The Sharks in particular (even with injuries) looking very competent on paper. There is only so much that can be imagined staring through the team sheets – and the flock of young Kiwis on Super 14 debut, and funky selections like Weepu at 10 make the overseas games really tough to call.
Some youngsta called Slade has ousted Brett from the Craders 10 position – given Brett’s undoubted quality this brings potential tears to South African eyes, as another genius rolls off the South Island No. 10 Production Line. Dare we hope he’s not as good as Carter or McAllister or Evans or Brett or Donald or or or .
Although I have some vague interest in whether the Stormers can finally play some competent and consistent Super 14 rugby – I’d have to admit that I’ll be keeping a closer eye on the 6 Nations over the next few weeks. Players in this competition are competing for Lions selection and let’s face it, THAT tour is bigger news than 14 Super 14 tournaments.
My sincere hopes for the Super 14 are:
– That Ruan Pienaar emerges as the undisputed 10 in SA AND then remains fit!
– That Kankowski makes the Bok No. 8 his own (or that Spies learns to pass)
– That the Sharks and De Villiers decide if Smit will really be a prop or not or what! (this is a potential stuff up)
Enjoy the opening rounds – if you want to keep your eye on any particular oddities, I’d watch Slade and Weepu at flyhalf, Koster at wing and the quality Brendon Leonard back at 9 for the Chiefs after 8 months out. Also perhaps the Brumbies backline which boasts old and new combos.
Really tough to make an early call – but I see Craders and Sharks as sure-thing semi-finalists.
Merry Watching.
Also keen to see Monty back at the Stormers and the impact of Vermeulen…