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Super XVIII 2016

  • 04-02-2016 9:49am
    #1
    Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭


    im sure swiwi will do us a preview, but until then lets use this thread for general news and discussion of super rugby for 2016 season


    Pulse Energy Highlanders’ team to play Racing 92 in Hong Kong

    The Pulse Energy Highlanders will begin their 2016 preseason campaign on Saturday 7th February in Hong Kong when they context the Natixis Cup against the Racing 92. The game is being played at Sui Sai Wan Stadium in Hong Kong kicking-off at 5.00pm local time (10.00pm NZT) and will be broadcast live on Sky Sport 2 from 9.55pm.

    The first hit-out of the year will see the twenty-eight players named with new signing, Liam Squire starting at No 8 in his first game for the Highlanders and local player, Matt Faddes, running out as full back.

    Pulse Energy Highlanders v Racing 92, Sui Sai Wan Stadium, Hong Kong, Sat 7th February, 5.00pm (local time)

    1. Daniel Lienert-Brown
    2. Ash Dixon
    3. Josh Hohneck
    4. Tom Franklin
    5. Joe Wheeler
    6. Elliot Dixon
    7. Shane Christie (C)
    8. Liam Squire
    9. Josh Renton
    10. Lima Sopoaga
    11. Patrick Osborne
    12. Richard Buckman
    13. Jason Emery
    14. Waisake Naholo
    15. Matt Faddes
    Reserves:
    16. Greg Pleasants-Tate
    17. Brendon Edmonds
    18. Siosiua Halanukonuka
    19. Jackson Hemopo
    20. Sio Tomkinson
    21. Liam Howley
    22. Malakai Fekitoa
    23. Tei Walden
    24. Ryan Tongia
    25. Marty Banks
    26. Luke Whitelock
    27. James Lentjes
    28. Mark Reddish
    Head Coach: Jamie Joseph
    Assistant Coaches: Tony Brown, Scott McLeod
    Team Manager: Paul McLaughlan


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Comments

  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 24,258 ✭✭✭✭Buer


    Yeah...I'll be calling this S18 from now on.

    SXVIII? F*ck that.

    Looking forward to the season starting and having live, early morning games from NZ. Will tie in very nicely with my schedule!


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 45,433 ✭✭✭✭thomond2006


    With their squad, the Jaguares should be strong. http://www.jaguares.com.ar/en/index.html

    The UAR have done a great job bringing their players home. That's despite a very weak currency: Four years ago one Peso was USD 0.23. Now it's USD 0.07.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 39,455 ✭✭✭✭PTH2009


    This will strengthen rugby even more in Argentina and Japan. Neither of which we want in our pool in the next world cup along with the all blacks


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    looking on paddy power im surprised at some of the betting odds

    Grand Final Winner
    Hurricanes 5/1
    Chiefs 13/2
    Brumbies 7/1
    Waratahs 8/1
    Crusaders 8/1
    Highlanders 8/1
    Jaguares 10/1
    Stormers 11/1
    Sharks 14/1
    Bulls 16/1
    Blues 25/1
    Lions 33/1
    Reds 40/1
    Rebels 50/1
    Western Force 100/1
    Cheetahs 100/1
    Kings 300/1
    Sunwolves 300/1

    The canes are probably deservedly favourites after the style of rugby they played last year, and teh hunger they must have for this season. However they are shorn of 2 giants of the team, both leaders, in a very important area and partnership.... with Nonu and C Smith gone. How they replace them will be central to how they do this year.

    Chiefs at 13/2 is generous i think seeing as they whole season is based on whether aaron cruden can stay fit or not. Any significant injury to him and they are bolloxed.

    My bias aside, im very surprised at the highlanders price 8/1. They have the most settled squad of all the NZ teams. They have retained all their senior all blacks from last season, and have a lot more knocking on the international squad door. The only noticable absentees are Nasi manu and John Hardie, who both couldnt have given more for the team and were probably rightly timed to leave. In elliot dixon we have an able replacement for manu. I think a lot will come down to hunger again, but i think even after last year the highlanders are still seen as the poor cousin... which will be reason enough to drive for back to back championships.

    from the australian side, i think Nic White leaving brumbies is going to affect them even if cubelli is a decent player. White was a driven player and hard done by in the world cup. The tahs are a a hard call.. theyve a new coach and have lost some pretty significant senior players in Kepu, AAC, potgeitger and mckribben... intersting to see how zac guilford goes.

    the jaguares are an interesting bet at 10/1. i suppose their biggest issue will be the 4 week international window in may / june. i wonder would they be willing to retain senior players for the s18 ( ;) ) and select a loads of noobs against italy and france


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,515 ✭✭✭swiwi_


    OPERATION BRITISH & IRISH LIONS STARTS HERE

    I thought twice about whether to take the time to do a Super Rugby preview for 2016. However, in theory Super Rugby should be of some interest to people on this forum, given Ireland’s international fixture list for 2016, and the Lions tour to NZ in 2017. So I trust it proves an interesting and a useful reference. I think the dedicated on this forum who followed Super Rugby last year found it generally pretty entertaining.

    My first confession is that much like last year I will be largely limiting my viewing to games involving NZ teams, and I’m therefore mainly going to concentrate on previewing the NZ franchises. There are other posters on this forum who follow Australian (although I keep a good eye on their players) and especially South African rugby more closely, and it would also be nice if an Amigo from Argentina happened to be living in the Emerald Isle and wanted to discuss all things Los Jaguares. I must say I think Super Rugby as a whole is becoming too convoluted, it’s clear the decision to include the Southern Kings has a lot to do with things not directly related to rugby.

    My second confession is that my assessment of the franchises and players to look out for is largely based on what I saw last year, simply because I no longer have the time to follow the ITM cup. There will probably be a number of talented players of whom I am yet blissfully unaware that show some talent in Super Rugby and might even make the step up to All Black rugby.

    Before previewing this season, let’s see how I went last season with my preview of players to look out for. From each franchise, I chose

    Ihaia West (Blues) – and he flopped. Basically NZ’s version of Ian Madigan, loads of talent, good goalkicker, can’t control a game. The Blues suffered as a result.

    Seta Tamanivalu (Chiefs) – essentially given no game-time by Dave Rennie, so we will never know. But he is clearly rated by Steve Hansen as he was given a call-up to the initial 40 or so players chosen for a pre-RWC camp.

    Nehe Milner-Skudder (Canes) – bit disappointing really. Average season, with only a winner’s medal and a try in the RWC final to show for his first season of Super Rugby.

    Robbie Freuan (Crusaders) – broke his arm early on, season over.

    Waisake Naholo (Landers) – yeah, I nailed this one.

    Now time for the traditional overview of the NZ rugby landscape, before we narrow our focus down on the 5 franchises. Basically, it’s operation replace NZ’s midfield with the old firm of Nonu & Smith enjoying the delights of southern France, and SBW aiming to add an Olympic Gold Medal to his potpourri of silverware. There is also the small matter of replacing the GOAT at 7, and Din Cada at 10, but those 2 had already identified backups. Old age and you scavenging bastards from up North got rid of a fair chunk of NZ talent, but to the NZRFU’s credit, the only one that really got away was Charles Piutau, and his loss was more than suitably assuaged at season’s end by Nehe the hot-stepper and Waisake and his traditional medicine. A number of big names signed up until 2019, so all currently remains attractive with NZ rugby for the majority of the players with international ambitions. At the time of writing, it is widely expected that Victor Vito will sign for a foreign club, probably English or French I imagine, even if Ulster have had various designs (and edit he signed for La Rochelle).

    The Blues

    http://www.superxv.com/47544/1/blues-reveal-39-man-super-rugby-squad-for-2016#.VoqR3FXhCJA

    Notable losses: Woodcock, Mealamu, Piutau, coach Kirwan
    Notable gains: Ranger, coach Umaga

    The Blues have a new coach (Ireland’s favourite’s son Tana), and they will be hoping a new beginning. Season after season of mediocrity has become the norm for the former champions.

    Strengths: First-choice pack locks pretty decent, albeit without much back-up. Midfield looks dangerous.

    Weaknesses: Halves.

    A couple of players to look out for: Akira Ioane. Dynamic ball-carrying 8/6, who is fast enough to represent NZ at 7s rugby. Barring injury, seems certain to wear black in 2016. The next big thing in NZ rugby, maybe. George Moala. Not long ago a bit of a journeyman wing, who then found himself in court for assault. A reformed man, and in one of Kirwan’s few decent selection switches, he has become a very good inside centre. Capped vs Samoa, I expect him to push hard for Nonu’s jersey. A mention for Patrick Tuipolotu returning from bilateral hip operations.

    Umaga has proven himself with Counties-Manukau at ITM cup level. He might not be on the Christmas card list here, but he is popular in NZ. He should get the Blues playing a better style of rugby, utilising the Pacific talent which dominates Auckland rugby, but his season, like every recent Blues season in memory, will come down to how his chosen fly-half performs. Prediction – better than last season, which is already a good start. Fringe play-off candidate is possible.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,876 ✭✭✭✭bilston


    I'm interested to see how the Jaguars do and what sort of crowds they attract.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,557 ✭✭✭sydneybound


    bilston wrote: »
    I'm interested to see how the Jaguars do and what sort of crowds they attract.

    I'll be following them closely this year. The UAR have done a wonderful job getting such a good squad together unlike the Sunwolves (who are doing very well selling match tickets).

    Their playing in a big 40,000 seater stadium and I think they are initially hoping of crowds of around 10-12,000. So going on the back of their twitter account they are really trying to engage with the local community to gather more support. Although they have a strong squad I think this season they'll need to adjust to all the travelling and playing against top teams in SR week in week out. A top 6 finish would be a brilliant first season and hopefully they won't lose much at home to build that fanbase. The plan is for another SR team by 2019 so really hope this team goes well first.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,951 ✭✭✭SuprSi


    I really have missed my Saturday morning rugby fix so can't wait for this to start back up :)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 177 ✭✭The Black Stags


    Thanks very much for putting this thread together guys.

    Who is the new coach of the highlanders?


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    Thanks very much for putting this thread together guys.

    Who is the new coach of the highlanders?

    AAARRRGGGGH FCUK !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


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  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    http://thehighlanders.co.nz/our-news/latest-news/722-jamie-joseph-to-coach-in-japan

    now that the shock has died down... at least he doesnt join until the end of the 2016 season...


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 177 ✭✭The Black Stags


    sydthebeat wrote: »

    now that the shock has died down... at least he doesnt join until the end of the 2016 season...

    Wait, you didn't know? Sorry I had to break the news! But yeah, thank goodness he is staying until the end of this season.


  • Moderators, Science, Health & Environment Moderators Posts: 18,266 Mod ✭✭✭✭CatFromHue


    Just a quick recap of the structure of the league for anyone not sure



  • Closed Accounts Posts: 1,182 ✭✭✭nehe milner skudder


    players to watch:

    1.liam squire :loose forward at highlanders with a bit of mongrel.

    2.akira ioane: weapon of mass distruction. disappointed he is playing sevens actually . would like him to focus on allblack honours. im harder than a bailiffs knock every time he gets the ball.
    his younger brother rieko is a lightening bolt at 18 years of age.

    3.geoarge moala : nonu conrad and sbw are gone. this boy apparently came out of preseaon barrel chested.piled on the muscle. he is a tank. him and fekitoa together while not a conventional 12/13 is almost unstoppable . my knickers are soaking thinking about what he can achieve.




    temanivalu, ardie savea, the returning rene ranger , patty tuipolutu to hopefully fulfil last years promise .


    shout out to israel dagg who signed on to stay in NZ.
    He didn't take the filthy lucre playing easy rugby up north and i admire that.


    for what its worth i think the blues will go really well this year. umaga is a legend with plenty of mana.he takes no **** from anyone and players bust their balls for him. he made a silk purse from a sows ear with manukau and i expect the blues to go to the play offs.
    i reckon i could play first five for them and shovel the ball out to the polynesians out wide and still win games. game breakers everywhere

    time for some proper rugby to start. sat through some dross today north of the equator.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,072 ✭✭✭Yeah_Right


    Hurricanes beat the Crusaders 74-7 in a preseason match!! Didn't think they'd miss DC and McCaw that much.

    Kaino got red carded in the Blues match against the Chiefs. Has to face a hearing this week. Not good for the Blues to go into their opener without their captain. The good news was Cruden came through his first match unscathed.


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    i think kaino might claim mitigating circumstances... probably get 2 weeks.

    Canes with a loud alarm call for the coming season


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,515 ✭✭✭swiwi_


    Wazzup my Super Rugby lovin' brothas. Only 7 more sleeps.

    If pre-season form is anything to go by (which it it never is), the Blues are going to be taking out the NZ conference.

    I can't be arsed doing previews of the other 4 NZ franchises, but I'll be looking out for

    Chiefs
    Brad Weber - Aaron Smith Mk II
    Damian McKenzie - midget man with wheels and a step
    Nepo Laulala - inside word is potentially the best TH since Hayman :(

    Canes
    Can Brad Shields finally make the step up?
    Probably just keep watching NMS TBH, f*ck the rest

    Saders
    David Havili caught my eye last season.
    All the new FHs

    Landers
    Lima Sopoaga
    Angry Malakai
    Buckman :(

    Probably keep an eye on the Jaguares too.

    I have zero understanding of how the conferences work now, still nice to have Super Rugby back on dry fast pitches...


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    What's happened to Bucky? As a dyed in the wool magpie by marriage, I know he knobbled himself in the semi-final, is it still that injury?

    Izzy Dagg just had his house done up, he was going nowhere! Serious home boy.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 4,515 ✭✭✭swiwi_


    rsh118 wrote: »
    What's happened to Bucky? As a dyed in the wool magpie by marriage, I know he knobbled himself in the semi-final, is it still that injury?

    Well, if you actually are a dyed in the wool magpie...

    ...you should know the answer already :p

    But he munted his shoulder in scoring a try vs Racing 92.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    swiwi_ wrote: »
    Well, if you actually are a dyed in the wool magpie...

    ...you should know the answer already :p

    But he munted his shoulder in scoring a try vs Racing 92.

    Dyed in the wool in the sense of the majority of kiwis, as in appreciative nod each time the paper says they won and MIGHT see a couple of playoff games through work ;)

    The highlanders picked up Tongia as well didn't they? Pocket rocket.


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,072 ✭✭✭Yeah_Right


    sydthebeat wrote: »
    i think kaino might claim mitigating circumstances... probably get 2 weeks.

    Canes with a loud alarm call for the coming season

    I haven't seen the incident but apparently he claimed that he was trying to get his arm free in a maul.


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    rsh118 wrote: »
    Dyed in the wool in the sense of the majority of kiwis, as in appreciative nod each time the paper says they won and MIGHT see a couple of playoff games through work ;)

    The highlanders picked up Tongia as well didn't they? Pocket rocket.

    We have tongia since last season. 3 caps, 3 tries ;)


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 177 ✭✭The Black Stags


    I assume Taniela Tupou is going to pick up a few caps this season at the Reds?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    sydthebeat wrote: »
    We have tongia since last season. 3 caps, 3 tries ;)

    I blame Hawkes Bay Today for not knowing this. Do I remember wrong or is Ash Dixon with you as well??


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    rsh118 wrote: »
    I blame Hawkes Bay Today for not knowing this. Do I remember wrong or is Ash Dixon with you as well??

    Yep since last season...


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    sydthebeat wrote: »
    Yep since last season...

    Jeez at this rate I might have the entire squad named by playoff time. With so many playing for the highlanders, supporting the hyper-local Canes whose region we're in seems mad.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,072 ✭✭✭Yeah_Right


    Hawkes Bay boys have been fleeing to the South Island for years. Randell and Kronfeld were from there I think.


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    Yeah_Right wrote: »
    Hawkes Bay boys have been fleeing to the South Island for years. Randell and Kronfeld were from there I think.

    You are spot on with those two. Must be the incessant good weather we have up here. Either that or they are all trying to avoid bumping into Zac at the Thirsty Whale.


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 4,456 ✭✭✭astonaidan


    How long the season go on, would I be to optimistic in thinking I might get a Jaguares game when Im in Argentina at christmas :o


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    astonaidan wrote: »
    How long the season go on, would I be to optimistic in thinking I might get a Jaguares game when Im in Argentina at christmas :o

    Very optimistic. As I remember it's Feb-June/July for Super, then onto the local domestic competitions, ITM, Currie Cup etc


  • Moderators, Arts Moderators Posts: 35,731 Mod ✭✭✭✭pickarooney


    What will the Jaguares players be doing for six months of the year?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 697 ✭✭✭rsh118


    What will the Jaguares players be doing for six months of the year?

    Hmmm, some will be involved with the Pumas, quite a lot I think in the RC and AIs I suppose. As for the rest....


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 4,456 ✭✭✭astonaidan


    rsh118 wrote: »
    Very optimistic. As I remember it's Feb-June/July for Super, then onto the local domestic competitions, ITM, Currie Cup etc

    :( pity, going to get a Riverplate Boca derby in over their, would have been nice to bring the father in law to a rugby match


  • Moderators, Arts Moderators Posts: 35,731 Mod ✭✭✭✭pickarooney


    astonaidan wrote: »
    :( pity, going to get a Riverplate Boca derby in over their, would have been nice to bring the father in law to a rugby match

    That should be epic. In the bombonera or the monumental?


  • Closed Accounts Posts: 4,456 ✭✭✭astonaidan


    That should be epic. In the bombonera or the monumental?

    Bombonera is where we watching it, but another game at River, they are from Cordoba so going to watch a game their aswell, pretty excited


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  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,943 ✭✭✭Jacovs


    Havent kept up to date enough with off season proceedings to do a preview of my own, so im going to just leave this here, stolen from News24:
    http://www.sport24.co.za/Rugby/SuperRugby/super-rugby-preview-stormers-20160208

    Stormers

    Coach: Robbie Fleck

    Captain: Juan de Jongh and Frans Malherbe

    Last season: Lost in qualifiers, SA conference champions

    Grouped with: Cheetahs, Bulls, Sunwolves

    Potential strengths: The good news for the Stormers is that they have retained a large number of their players from last season. While Duane Vermeulen is the obvious major loss, the pack will have an otherwise familiar feel to it. Schalk Burger remains, while the experience of Siya Kolisi, Nizaam Carr, Eben Etzebeth, Scarra Ntubeni and Frans Malherbe will be needed. One of the most exciting prospects is the partnership of Etzebeth and new signing Pieter-Steph du Toit in the second row.

    Potential weaknesses: There is an element of uncertainty in the backline. With the trusted Demetri Catrakilis having left with Coetzee last season, the Stormers will be fielding a new first-choice flyhalf in 2016. Robert du Preez is the favourite to start the season opener against the Bulls, but he is a Super Rugby novice. Injuries also mean that the Stormers are a little thin at inside centre, so how the 10/12 combination develops in the opening weeks will be watched closely by Stormers fans.

    Players to watch: The Etzebeth/Du Toit combination is obviously the major attraction of this side, but it is also a big season for Frans Malherbe as he looks to become the go-to tighthead for the Springboks.

    Realistic aim: The Stormers will look to top their conference and secure a home quarter-final. A push for the title is likely a step too far, but a last four place could be seen as realistic.

    Players in: Pieter-Steph du Toit (Sharks), Cornal Hendricks (Cheetahs), JC Janse van Rensburg (Bayonne), JP Smith (Brumbies), Jano Vermaak (Toulouse).

    Players out: Manuel Carizza (Racing 92), Demetri Catrakilis (Montpellier), Jean de Villiers (Leicester), Patrick Howard (Northampton), Steven Kitshoff (Bordeaux), Neil Rautenbach (Cheetahs), Michael Rhodes (Saracens), Duane Vermeulen (Toulon).

    First fixture: February 27 v Bulls (h).


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 177 ✭✭The Black Stags


    Here's a good overview of the Australian contingent:
    http://www.theroar.com.au/2016/02/23/australian-super-rugby-guide/



    How the Australian teams stack up in 2016 Super Rugby.
    Brumbies

    Super Rugby titles: 2001, 2004,
    Finishes over the past three seasons: 2015 – 4th, 2014 – 4th, 2013 – 2nd
    Coach: Stephen Larkham
    Captains: Stephen Moore and Christian Lealiifano

    Coach Larkham has made it clear it’s now or never for his aging squad with a number leaving a season’s end. Argentine halfback Tomas Cubelli will be key to their chances.

    Gains: Tomas Cubelli (Belgrano), Albert Anae (Benetton Treviso), Nick Jooste (Perth Spirit), Andrew Smith (Montpellier), Aidan Toua (Agen)
    Losses: Nic White (Montpellier), Jesse Mogg (Montpellier), JP Smith (Stormers), Siliva Siliva (Rebels), Fotu Auelua (released), Sean Doyle (Munster).

    NSW Waratahs


    Super Rugby titles: 2014
    Finishes over the past three seasons: 2015 – 3rd, 2014 – 1st, 2013 – 9th
    Coach: Daryl Gibson
    Captain: Michael Hooper

    After bowing out in the semi-finals last season, it’s hard to see where that final improvement will come from under new coach Daryl Gibson. Veteran Wallabies back Adam Ashley-Cooper and firebrand Jacques Potgeiter will be hard to replace.

    Gains: Angus Taavao (Blues), Brad Wilkin (Australia Sevens), Jim Stewart (Sydney Stars), Zac Guildford (Hawkes Bay), Harry Jones (Sydney Stars), Reece Robinson (Parramatta Eels).
    Losses: Adam Ashley-Cooper (Bordeaux), Sekope Kepu (Bordeaux), Jacques Potgieter (Sharks), Brendan McKibbin (London Irish), Taqele Naiyaravoro (Glasgow), Pat McCutcheon (Australia Sevens), Peter Betham (Leicester Tigers), Jono Lance (Force), Ben Volavola (Crusaders), Mitchell Chapman (retired), Tala Grey (Toulouse), Michael Alaalatoa (Crusaders) Stephen Hoiles (retired)

    Queensland Reds

    Super Rugby titles: 1992, 1994, 1995, 2011
    Finishes over the past three seasons: 2015 – 13th, 2014 – 13th, 2013 – 5th
    Coach: Richard Graham
    Captain: James Slipper

    Plenty of pressure on coach Richard Graham after a poor 2015. The Reds must adjust to a new era without stalwarts Will Genia, Quade Cooper and James Horwill. Their forward pack should still be quality but their backs are a raw and little known quantity.

    Gains: Kane Douglas (Leinster), Cadeyrn Neville (Rebels), Ayumu Goromaru (Yamaha Jubilo), James Tuttle (Bond University), Lukhan Tui (Randwick), Alex Mafi (Bond University), Izack Rodda (Easts Tigers), Junior Laloifi (Sunnybank), Eto Nabuli (St George Illawarra), Brad Matwijow (ITM Cup)
    Losses: Quade Cooper (Toulon), Will Genia (Stade Francais), James Horwill (Harlequins), James O’Connor (Toulon), James Hanson (Rebels), Marco Kotze (Agen), David McDuling (Sharks), Ed O’Donoghue (Japan), Tom Murday (Agen), Ed Quirk (released), Beau Robinson (released), Adam Thomson (Rebels), Ben Tapuai (Force), Lachlan Turner (Toulon), Sam Johnson (Glasgow).

    Melbourne Rebels

    Super Rugby titles: 0
    Finishes over the past three seasons: 2015 – 10th, 2014 – 15th, 2013 – 12th
    Coach: Tony McGahan
    Captain: Nic Stirzaker

    The Rebels showed what they are capable of last season but lacked consistency. They don’t have the star power of other teams but with a promising halves pair Nic Stirzaker and Jack Debreczeni shouldn’t be far off the leaders.

    Gains: Adam Thomson (Reds), James Hanson (Reds), Culum Retallick (Blues), Sione Tuipulotu (Melbourne Rising), Ryan Cocker (Taranaki), Jamie Hagan (London Irish), Siliva Siliva (Brumbies), Rob Leota (Northern), Reece Hodge (Manly).
    Losses: Scott Higginbotham (NEC Green Rockets), Luke Burgess (Zebre), Radike Samo (released), Cadeyrn Neville (Reds), Paul Alo-Emile (Stade Francais), Keita Inagaki (Panasonic Wild Knights), Tom Sexton (Force), Ben Whittaker (released), Tom Kingston (released), Bryce Hegarty (Toyota Industries Shuttles), Telusa Veainu (Leicester Tigers).

    Western Force

    Super Rugby titles: 0
    Finishes over the past three seasons: 2015 – 15th, 2014 – 8th, 2013 – 13th
    Coach: Michael Foley
    Captains: Matt Hodgson

    The only way is up for the Force. Unfortunately it’s more likely to be a slow climb than a rapid rise, with their new playmaker, South African veteran Peter Grant needing to fire.

    Gains: Peter Grant (La Rochelle), Ben Tapuai (Reds), Jono Lance (Waratahs), Richie Arnold (Queensland Country) Semisi Masirewa (Manawatu), Tom Sexton (Rebels)
    Losses: Wilhelm Steenkamp (Brive), Sam Wykes (Coca-Cola West Red Sparks), Sias Ebersohn (Cheetahs), Zack Holmes (La Rochelle), Nick Cummins (Coca-Cola West Red Sparks), Mitchell Scott (Tasman), Akihito Yamada (Panasonic Wild Knights)


    2016 Super Rugby Format

    Australasian Group
    New Zealand – Blues, Chiefs, Crusaders, Highlanders, Hurricanes.
    Australia – Brumbies, Western Force, Rebels, Waratahs, Reds

    South African Group
    South Africa – Bulls, Cheetahs, Kings, Lions, Sharks, Stormers
    Argentina – Jaguares
    Japan – Sunwolves

    Australian Conference: Brumbies, Force, Rebels, Reds, Waratahs
    New Zealand Conference: Blues, Chiefs, Crusaders, Highlanders, Hurricanes
    South Africa 1 Conference: Bulls, Cheetahs, Stormers, Sunwolves
    South Africa 2 Conference: Jaguares, Kings, Lions, Sharks


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 177 ✭✭The Black Stags


    In fact while I'm at it, you may as well have this one too:


    Right now, just before the season gets underway, you’ll get close to the following odds with the various betting agencies.

    • Brumbies 8-1
    • New South Wales Waratahs 9-1
    • Melbourne Rebels 34-1
    • Queensland Reds 41-1
    • Western Force 67-1

    Let’s take a look at why the bookmakers have arrived at these odds.

    Brumbies
    The Brumbies finished second in the 2015 Australian Conference of the Super Rugby competition, behind the Waratahs. They won nine and lost seven in the regular season, placing them sixth in the overall competition standings. They then upset the third placed Stormers in a qualifying final before eventually bowing out in the semi-finals to the Hurricanes.

    The Brumbies will be hoping Argentinian international Tomas Cubelli will be able to slot in at scrum-half easily, replacing Wallaby Nic White who has headed to France. Coach Stephen Larkham is in his third season in charge, and has recently elevated centre Christian Lealiifano to become co-captain alongside Wallaby hooker and captain Stephen Moore for 2016.

    The Brumbies are traditionally solid Super Rugby performers and along with the Waratahs they will be leading the Australian charge in the 2016 competition. Besides Lealiifano and Moore, the Brumbies squad contains Wallaby stars David Pocock, Matt Toomua and Tevita Kuridrani.

    New South Wales Waratahs

    Super Rugby champions in 2014 and beaten semi-finalists in 2015, the Waratahs have a new head coach for the 2016 season in Daryl Gibson. He replaces Michael Cheika, who will now be focusing all his coaching efforts on the Wallabies.

    The Waratahs will be captained by Wallaby flanker Michael Hooper and with the likes of fellow Wallabies Wycliff Palu, Nick Phipps, Bernard Foley, Kurtley Beale and Israel Folau in their line-up, they should again be around when the proverbial whips are cracking in the 2016 competition.

    Melbourne Rebels

    The Rebels finished a creditable 10th in 2015, the best result in their short five-year history, but realistically it’s hard to see them doing much better in 2016. They will likely be competitive at best. The team will be led by co-captains Scott Fuglistaller and Scott Higginbotham, and coached by Tony McGahan in what will be his fourth year at the helm.

    Queensland Reds
    Being a Queenslander myself it pains me to say it, but I think the Red’s odds of 41-1 are accurate. Who would have thought a few years ago that a Reds team would be bigger outsiders at the start of a Super Rugby season than the Rebels?

    The Reds performed poorly in 2015, finishing 13th. Will Genia, Quade Cooper and James O’Connor are three high profile backline departures for 2016, leaving the Reds line-up on paper looking like they will struggle to score points. Wallaby prop and Reds skipper James Slipper will also miss the first half of the season after undergoing shoulder surgery.

    I think it will be a long season of rebuilding for the Reds.

    Western Force

    The Force were wooden spooners in 2015, so the only way is up. In their ten-year history, their best result has been seventh way back in 2007. The team will be led by Matt Hodgson, and coached by former Wallaby hooker Michael Foley. Odds of 67-1 might seem harsh, but they are realistic.

    http://www.theroar.com.au/2016/02/20/australian-super-rugby-teams-chances-2016/


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    this weeks fixtures with kick off times:

    FRI 26TH FEBRUARY

    06:35 Blues V Highlanders
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    08:40 Brumbies V Hurricanes
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    17:00 Cheetahs V Los Jaguares
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    SAT 27TH FEBRUARY

    04:15 Sunwolves V Lions
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    06:35 Crusaders V Chiefs
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    08:40 Waratahs V Reds
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    10:50 Western Force V Melbourne Rebels
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    13:00 Southern Kings V Sharks
    Sky Sports 2 HD

    15:05 Stormers V Bulls
    Sky Sports 2 HD


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 45,433 ✭✭✭✭thomond2006


    Vamos Los Jaguares! There's no excuse to not do well with their squad. Argentina are going to be a scary prospect over the next few years with their team* playing week in week out. No national team can boast that!

    *Assuming they stick to their policy of only picking domestic players for the national team.


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  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    heres a reminder for those who want to take part in the Super 18 predictor competition this year

    Come play Super Rugby Predictor with me on SuperBru! It's free and loads of fun. Just click here:

    http://www.superbru.com/superrugby/pool.php?p=11503249

    Pool name: boards.ie S18

    Pool code: onyxkeel


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 45,433 ✭✭✭✭thomond2006


    rsh118 wrote: »
    Hmmm, some will be involved with the Pumas, quite a lot I think in the RC and AIs I suppose. As for the rest....

    Some of the rest might go to Japan's Top League for a short-term payday.


  • Moderators, Arts Moderators Posts: 35,731 Mod ✭✭✭✭pickarooney


    What's the calendar for the Top League? Has anyone ever watched it?


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 17,300 ✭✭✭✭razorblunt


    Jaguares tickets for their main stand going at £3.50 according to some rugby journos on twitter.


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    two Pryor brothers as reserve back rows for Blues and Highlanders on Friday.

    Highlanders team looking strong, though i dont know much about walden playing at 12, making his super rugby debut. Also Faddes from the bench will have hos first start.

    The blues are keeping some very dangerous weapons on the bench

    Blues (15-1): Lolagi Visinia, Melani Nanai, Male Sa’u, George Moala, Tevita Li, Ihaia West, Bryn Hall, Steven Luatua, Blake Gibson, Joe Edwards, Josh Bekhuis, Patrick Tuipulotu, Sione Mafileo, James Parsons (c), Ofa Tu’ungafasi

    Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Namatahi Waa, Charlie Faumuina, Akira Ioane, Kara Pryor, Billy Guyton, Matt McGahan, Rene Ranger

    Highlanders (15-1): Ben Smith (co-captain), Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Teihorangi Walden, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Liam Squire, Shane Christie (co-captain), Elliot Dixon, Joe Wheeler, Tom Franklin, Josh Hohneck, Liam Coltman, Daniel Lienert-Brown

    Reserves: Ash Dixon, Brendon Edmonds, Ross Geldenhuys, Alex Ainley, Dan Pryor, Fumiaki Tanaka, Hayden Parker, Matt Faddes


  • Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 6,072 ✭✭✭Yeah_Right


    Getting a bit excited about Friday now. Come on the Blues!! This is our year!


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    Yeah_Right wrote: »
    Getting a bit excited about Friday now. Come on the Blues!! This is our year!

    i think you'll do quite well off the back of how well auckland did in the ITM with such a young team. Umaga has what it takes i reckon


  • Moderators, Arts Moderators Posts: 35,731 Mod ✭✭✭✭pickarooney


    I still don't get which teams are playing against which this year. What chance all three Du Preez brothers playing in a Stormers v Sharks game?


  • Subscribers Posts: 42,170 ✭✭✭✭sydthebeat


    I still don't get which teams are playing against which this year. What chance all three Du Preez brothers playing in a Stormers v Sharks game?


    https://www.westernforce.com.au/sites/default/files/documents/uploads/2016%20Super%20Rugby%20Draw.pdf


  • Moderators, Arts Moderators Posts: 35,731 Mod ✭✭✭✭pickarooney


    Cool. 12th of March if they all somehow manage to get selected


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