Super Rugby 2015

RUGBY2015SUPER

Who will win the coveted

SUPER 15 CROWN this year?

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Your FREE guide to the 2015 INVESTEC Super RUGBY season

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Welcome to your FREE guide to the 2015 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY season

Managing Editor: Oliver Lee

Contributing Writers: Peter White Stephen Nell Wynne Gray

Proofreading: Elise McDowell

Photography: photosport.co.nz

Production: ONTIME Associates Putting on the Ritz

Printing: PMP Auckland

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06 SEASON RUGBY

PREVIEW

09 20 YEARS OF

SUPER RUGBY

10 BLUES SET

FOR A RETURN

26 FORCE PLAY-OFF

CONTENDERS

28 BRUMBIES

LOOK GOOD

30 REBELS FOCUS

COMPETITIVE

SUPER RUGBY CONTENTS

18 HIGHLANDERS

FORM ALL

IMPORTANT

20 REDS SEEK

REDEMPTION

22 WARATAHS OUT

FOR A REPEAT

24 INVESTIC SUPER

RUGBY DRAW

38 STORMERS ON

BACK FOOT

FROM KICK-OFF

41 SHARKS ARE

A GOOD PUNT

42 SUPER RUGBY

FACTS

46 RWC 2015

SCHEDULE

32 BULLS SCORE

GREAT DRAW

35 CHALLENGES

AHEAD FOR

CHEETAHS

37 LIONS FACE

TOUGH YEAR

12 CHIEFS LOOK THE

TEAM TO BEAT

14 CRUSADERS

DETERMINED TO

BAG TITLE

17 ‘CANES AFTER

CONSISTENCY

oliverlee.co.nzSuper RUGBY 2015 page 6

The All Blacks take on Argentina in London in their opening game on September 20 with Namibia, Georgia and Tonga to follow, before what all New Zealand fans hope is a clear path through to the final at Twickenham on October 31.

But before all that the 2015 Super Rugby season will be played out. It is the last year of 15 teams in three conferences before a change next year to a four conference, 18-team format with the Kings from South Africa joining teams from Argentina and Japan.

Last year’s final in Sydney between the Waratahs and the Crusaders was one for the ages with a last-gasp penalty kicked by Bernard Foley winning it for the home side and denying Todd Blackadder’s men their eighth title.

The key factor for the Crusaders in 2015 will be Dan Carter. The mercurial playmaker is fully fit and determined to go out a winner in his last Super Rugby season before joining French club Racing Metro. The Crusaders also welcome home Robbie Fruean and they are desperate to win their eighth title — the last was back in 2008.

Chiefs coach Dave Rennie has assembled his strongest squad — highlighted by new recruits Sonny Bill Williams, Taranaki midfielder Seta Tamanivalu and former All Blacks winger Hose Gear. With 2014 World Rugby International Player of the Year award winner Brodie Retallick and fellow All Blacks Aaron Cruden, Sam Cane and Liam Messam leading the way, the Chiefs will be hard to beat.

The Blues have a formidable side packed with All Blacks and a hardened attitude driven by coach Sir John Kirwan. No player wants to win in a Blues jersey more than new captain Jerome Kaino so they will not lack for motivation.

The Hurricanes were unlucky to miss the play-offs last year and have Ma’a Nonu back home fit and raring to go. All the All Blacks will look to assert themselves in Rugby World Cup year and Nonu in top form could be the difference for the Hurricanes.

Last year the Highlanders made the play-offs for the first time in 12 years and have three of the best backs in world rugby in Aaron Smith, Ben Smith and Malakai Fekitoa. Add in coach Jamie Joseph’s ability to get the best out of his team and they will again be competitive.

The opening game has the Crusaders hosting the Rebels in Christchurch on Friday, February 13 — bring it on!

THERE IS something special about a Rugby World Cup year. Unlike the annual Bledisloe Cup and Investec Rugby Championship tests, fans have to wait four years between

tournaments to see who can claim the title of world champions. And All Blacks fans know all too well how painful those four years can be after not winning the Webb Ellis Trophy.

By PETER WHITEThe excitement is building ahead of the start of the 2015 Super Rugby season, which opens a very special year of rugby. The All Blacks will play a test in Samoa for the first time in July and later in September and October the eighth Rugby World Cup will play out in England. .

T H E 2 0 1 5 S E A S O N , B R I N G I T O N !

SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW

CHAMPIONS AT LAST: The Waratahs players

celebrate after last year’s dramatic last-minute

win over the Crusaders to secure their first

Super Rugby title.

The omens certainly look good for the All Blacks to become the first team to win back-to-back titles. Since 2012, the All Blacks have suffered just two defeats at the hands of England and South Africa.

Ireland came so close to beating the All Blacks for the first time ever in Christchurch in 2012 and then that unforgettable last minute despair in Dublin in 2013. But the All Blacks have looked a class above the rest with the strength of their player depth a major advantage.

This year’s international programme kicks off with a history-making test against Samoa in Apia in July, before a shortened Investec Rugby Championship in July and early August. And then on to the big stage of the Rugby World Cup.

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1 MARCH 1996: New Zealand was a different place back then. The internet was still new, we were about to have our first MMP election, OMC won Most Promising Group at the NZ Music Awards, Peter Jackson was working on The Frighteners and Ella Yelich-O’Connor hadn’t been born.

LOOKING BACK AT SUPER RUGBY’S STEP INTO THE FUTURE

Sitting in Palmerston North was a crowd about to become part of history as they watched the first match of this new rugby competition, while fans — and nervous national and

provincial administrators — tuned in from around New Zealand and the world. The transition of our national game to a new era of professional rugby was complete and everyone was trying to figure out how to make it work. Now that the 20th season of Super Rugby is about to kick-off, it looks like they succeeded with the competition well-established and continuing to progress.

Coming in to that first season, the South Pacific Championship, Super Six and Super 10 competitions had given New Zealanders a taste of an international provincial competition, but the new competition was going to be completely different. Professionalism also added to the pressure with costs going up and the expectations on players changing.

New Zealand Rugby’s General Manager – Rugby, Neil Sorensen, was at that first match and recalls the impact that Super Rugby had.

“New Zealanders knew pretty quickly that this was something special. With the South African and Australian sides almost completely unknown to many spectators, rivalries quickly sprung up between the sides while the competition really tested the new players and gave rugby fans something new to talk about.

“Now that it’s 2015, we’re seeing young men born at the start of the professional era joining Super Rugby squads and for whom rugby provides a legitimate career aspiration, along with being part of professional coaching and management teams and becoming high performance referees.

“And where to from here? In 20 years Super Rugby might well encompass the best provincial sides from around the globe. Visualise a Super competition that results in a top-six heading into the play-offs with the best six from the rest of the world? Imagine Crusaders v Leinster, Toulon v Highlanders, Honda v Blues and Buenos Aires v Canes in the quarter-finals? Daydreaming maybe, but if you had said to me as I sat in the stands in Palmerston North watching Alama Ieremia score the first Super Rugby try against the Blues, that in 20 years’ time the Blues would be contracting a Year 13 schoolboy I would have laughed at the thought!” said Sorensen.

Many of the players from the early Super years went on to become All Blacks, with many more taking up coaching roles with New Zealand provincial or Super Rugby sides; combined skills that have made them sought after coaches all around the world.

The record books will show the Crusaders as the most successful of the New Zealand teams with seven titles to their credit, including three consecutive titles from 1998 to 2000, and four further finals appearances; while the Blues have three titles and, in recent seasons, it’s the Chiefs that have lifted the trophy, with champion badges in 2012 and 2013.

For 19 seasons Super Rugby has provided New Zealanders with world-leading rugby in our own backyard. Matches have been hosted from Whangarei to Invercargill. It is a competition that has challenged, entertained and established itself as a part of the rugby community each and every season. So let’s bring on the 20th.

SHINING STARS: Super Rugby has provided a platform for great players, like Christian Cullen who played 85 games for the Hurricanes.

PHOTO CREDITS: allblacks.com/Jo Caird

LEGACY OF SUCCESS: The Crusaders celebrated their third consecutive title, in Canberra in 2000, and most of this team are still involved with the game today.

oliverlee. co.nz

page 9 Super RUGBY 2015

L AST YEAR: 10TH PLACE. Disappointing to finish at the bottom of the New Zealand conference. The high-profile signing of Benji Marshall and then his early

exit back to rugby league was a distraction but the biggest issue was inconsistency. Their home form was very good but again they found it hard to win…on the road.

By Peter White — There is steely determination in the Blues camp that 2015 is the year to get back into the winner’s circle. They certainly have the talent to do it and must be due some success.

HAPPIER DAYS SET TO RETURN FOR BLUES

FEARLESS LEADER: Jerome Kaino will bring

passion and experience to his role as Blues captain.

WEBSITE www.theblues.co.nz

TICKETS www.ticketmaster.co.nz

Phone 0800 111 999

CONTACT The Blues Ltd Partnership PO Box 77 012, Mt Albert,

Auckland 1350

PHONE 09 846 5425

LUCK OF THE DRAW: Opening with the Chiefs at home, then two games in South Africa, a home game against the Lions, then three away games against the Hurricanes, Waratahs and Chiefs. But they do have five of their final six games at home.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Sir John Kirwan wants a back-to-basics and more ruthless approach from his team this campaign. The slogan for the season is “resilient and relentless”.

“They are two words we have discussed and brought into as a franchise,” Kirwan says. “Consistency through hard work is what we are talking about. We have been building the franchise over the last couple of years so we have seen a lot of change.

“This year is about delivering to our fans on what they deserve. Not only have the last two or three seasons been poor, it has been 13 years since we’ve won. So unless we have the courage to change then we are going to come 10th or 11th again. With change we will see more resilience and consistency.”

Kirwan has given powerhouse No.8 and natural leader Jerome Kaino the captain’s arm band to drive forward this new resolve.

“He is resilient, consistent and it is an important selection. He is keen to stay on, is passionate about the Blues and wants to make sure he leaves a legacy behind him as a player but also as a leader now.”

The Blues have a talent-laden squad including a strong collection of All Blacks in forwards Charlie Faumuina, Steven Luatua, Keven Mealamu, James Parsons, Patrick Tuipulotu, Tony Woodcock and backs Charles Piutau and Francis Saili.

New to the group are two tough southerners in halfback Jimmy Cowan and lock Josh Bekuis. And Kirwan knows they have the right attitude.

“They have bought a new dimension to us and have really contributed to the leadership and every Super team needs competition for places. Jimmy particularly brings a world of knowledge and experience and for me that’s fantastic.”

Much of the Blues’ success will rest on first-fives Ihaia West, Simon Hickey and Dan Bowden.

“We are really confident we have three guys in that position who can really be competitive with each other and bring different types of game,” says Kirwan.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Josh Bekhuis, Joe Edwards, Culum Retallick. Backs: Jimmy Cowan, Dan Bowden, Hamish Northcott, Ben Lam.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Tom McCartney, Tom Donnelly, Liaki Moli, Kane Barrett, Peter Saili. Backs: Piri Weepu, Baden Kerr, Chris Noakes, Ma’a Nonu, Jackson Willison, Albert Nikoro, Benji Marshall.

LIKELY FINISH: The Blues should be more consistent and challenge teams on the road. They have the firepower to beat anyone on their day and will be play-off contenders. Their late home run will help their chances.

BLUES SQUADForwards: Josh Bekhuis, Luke Braid, Joe Edwards, Charlie Faumuina, Blake Gibson, Jerome Kaino (captain), Will Lloyd, Steven Luatua, Keven Mealamu, Matt Moulds, Brendon O’Connor, James Parsons, Greg Pleasants-Tate, Sam Prattley, Culum Retallick, Angus Ta’avao, Hayden Triggs, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Tony Woodcock.

Backs: Pita Ahki, Dan Bowden, Jimmy Cowan, Jamison Gibson-Park, Frank Halai, Bryn Hall, Simon Hickey, Ben Lam, Tevita Li, George Moala, Melani Nanai, Hamish Northcott, Charles Piutau, Francis Saili, Matt Vaega, Lolagi Visinia, Ihia West.

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LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Chiefs start with the Blues in Albany then have three straight home games against the Brumbies, Crusaders and Highlanders. They should be in good shape before they travel to South Africa and then have two more home games before a bye in round nine.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The depth of top class talent head coach Dave Rennie has signed for the 2015 season is highly impressive. Midfielders Sonny Bill Williams, Seta Tamanivalu and former All Blacks winger Hose Gear, flanker Sean Polwart, Japanese international No.8 Michael Leitch and hooker Hikawera Elliot add quality to an already established squad.

Rennie says the quality of depth in the squad is fundamental to success.

L AST YEAR: FIFTH PLACE. After back-to-back titles the Chiefs struggled to continue the golden run

but still made the preliminary play-offs where they went to Canberra and lost a thriller to the Brumbies 32–30.

Optimism is rightly flowing through Chiefs country of a third title with the squad Dave Rennie has assembled including Sonny Bill Williams.

CHIEFS LOOK THE TEAM TO BEAT

WEBSITE www.chiefs.co.nz

TICKETS 0800 4 CHIEFS

(0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz

CONTACT Level 1

Neville Thomson Building Ruakura Research Centre

Bisley Road, Hamilton East PO Box 4292

Hamilton East 3247

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KEY SIGNING: The return of Sonny

Bill Williams has made a major impact

on the Chiefs build-up to the campaign.

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“It is crucial for us. It is a tough competition and is often a war of attrition,” he says. “You need a lot of depth not only for competition for places but sometimes to get a side on the field that is going to be competitive. We have a lot of versatility within our group, a good mix of youth and experience, and a tad bigger backline we have had in recent years.

“It is pretty exciting as we have some good options and some good men of high character. That is a big part of the contracting because in the end it is that willingness to spill a bit of blood for each other that is crucial to winning tight games.”

The midfield centred on Williams will certainly be an essential attacking area for the Chiefs, which Rennie says comes as no surprise.

“It is an area we have always tried to challenge teams in the past even if we had the big guys on the field or the little guys who use a lot of footwork. The extra size gives us variety and we can play different sorts of strikes, with the faster guys around them like Aaron (Cruden), Charlie (Ngatai) and Andrew Horrell. They’re very experienced and have been successful with this group.”

Leading halfback Tawera Kerr-Barlow will miss the campaign through injury, meaning new All Black Augustine Pulu, Brad Webber and wider training group rookie Leon Fukofuka will compete for the No.9 jersey.

Hooker Hikawera Elliott is back after a serious neck injury as cover for All Black Nathan Harris who will miss most of the season with an ankle injury.

The Chiefs pack will be strong with 2014 World Rugby International Player of the Year award winner Brodie Retallick at its core with fellow All Blacks Sam Cane and Liam Messam both top class loose forwards.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Mitchell Graham, Siate Tokolahi, Quentin MacDonald, Michael Allardice, Johan Bardoul, Sean Polwart, Michael Leitch, Hikawera Elliot. Backs: Seta Tamanivalu, Sonny Bill Williams, Hose Gear, Bryce Heem, Damian McKenzie.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Nick Barrett, Josh Hohneck, Mahonri Schwalger, Nick Crosswell, Ross Filipo, Tanerau Latimer, Kane Thompson. Backs: Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Bundee Aki, Robbie Fruean, Jordan Payne, Dwayne Sweeney, Asaeli Tikoirotuma, Gareth Anscombe, Mils Muliaina, Robbie Robinson.

LIKELY FINISH: The Chiefs and Crusaders are rated hot equal favourites by the TAB to win the title. The difference between the two could come down to the quality of depth in the two squads. If so the Chiefs may hold a slight advantage.

CHIEFS SQUADForwards: Liam Messam, Sam Cane, Liam Squire, Tevita Koloamatangi, Sean Polwart, Michael Leitch, Johan Bardoul, Brodie Retallick, Mike Fitzgerald, Matt Symons, Michael Allardice, Ben Tameifuna, Pauliasi Manu, Jamie Mackintosh, Mitchell Graham, Siate Tokolahi, Rhys Marshall, Quentin MacDonald, Hikawera Elliot.

Backs: Tom Marshall, Tim Nanai-Williams, Hosea Gear, James Lowe, Bryce Heem, Sonny Bill Williams, Charlie Ngatai, Andrew Horrell, Seta Tamanivalu, Aaron Cruden, Damian McKenzie, Augustine Pulu, Brad Weber.

Optimism is rightly flowing through Chiefs country of a third title with the squad Dave Rennie has assembled including Sonny Bill Williams.

CHIEFS LOOK THE TEAM TO BEAT

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Todd Blackadder is yet to coach the Crusaders to a Super Rugby title after six attempts. His 2015 team has as good a chance as any other to finally change that record.

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WORLD CLASS: The return of

Dan Carter will be a crucial factor in

the Crusaders final standings.

WEBSITE www.crusaders.co.nz

TICKETS www.ticketdirect.co.nz

Phone 0800 224 224

CONTACT 81 Jack Hinton Drive

Addington, PO Box 755,

Christchurch 8140

PHONE 03 379 8300

LAST YEAR: RUNNER-UP. The Crusaders had their usual slow start, which ultimately cost them a home final. Instead they went to Sydney to take on

the Waratahs in what was one of the great finals. They lost 33–32 after the Waratahs kicked a penalty in the 79th minute.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Crusaders start at home against the Rebels, and then have two tough away games in Dunedin and Hamilton. Following their bye, they have two home games against lesser South African teams before they travel away to play the Bulls and Sharks. Rounds nine to 11 at home against New Zealand teams will be crucial.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: They are the most successful franchise in Super Rugby history with seven titles. But the last was back in 2008 and head coach Todd Blackadder is confident he has the right mix of players to win title number eight.

“I am really confident we have selected the right players that are capable of doing the job,” he says. “Every year we have continued to grow, to make progress, to be better. We worked really hard on retention so we have basically kept the same players from last season. I see that as really important to being a better team this year.”

The Crusaders lacked midfield punch last year but they will not lack for size this year. Robbie Fruean returns from the Chiefs to join other big men Kieron Fonotia and Nemani Nadolo.

“It is fantastic to have Robbie back and he is a new man with a new lease of life. He is just so much physically stronger than he has been previously. Kieron is another man who has really stepped up physically for us. He is a great option for us at 12 and centre. We have got quite a few 12s like Ryan Crotty and we can play big Nemani so we certainly have got some good firepower on the outside available. We are a much more physically intimidating backline than what we had the previous year.”

The Crusaders were dealt an unfortunate double blow in a pre-season game against the Highlanders in January. Exciting new winger Jone Macilai from Northland broke his arm and experienced halfback Willi Heinz suffered a serious broken leg. Both players are likely to miss the entire Super Rugby campaign.

Undoubtedly having Dan Carter back to run the team from first-five could be the difference to Blackadder’s team winning the title or settling for second again.

“It is his last year for the Crusaders and he spent his whole career here with us,” says Blackadder. “I know he wants to go out on the right note and we are certainly going to give him every opportunity. I couldn’t think of anything better than selecting DC to start and seeing him perform as well.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Ged Robinson, Scott Barrett. Backs: Robbie Fruean, Jone Macilai

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Cory Flynn, George Whitelock. Backs: Tyler Bleyendaal, Ray Lee-Lo, Rob Thompson, Adam Whitelock, Zac Guildford.

LIKELY FINISH: The indicators all look favourable for the Crusaders to make the final again. The traditional slow start cost the team a home final last year and is something they are working to rectify. The Chiefs are most likely to rain on their parade again this year.

CRUSADERS SQUADForwards: Wyatt Crockett, Joe Moody, Tim Perry, Owen Franks, Nepo Laulala, Ben Funnell, Codie Taylor, Ged Robinson, Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Dominic Bird, Jimmy Tupou, Scott Barrett, Luke Whitelock, Richie McCaw, Matt Todd, Kieran Read, Jordan Taufua.

Backs: Andy Ellis, Willi Heinz, Mitchell Drummond, Dan Carter, Colin Slade, Tom Taylor, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Robbie Fruean, Nemani Nadolo, Jone Macilai, Johnny McNicholl, Nafi Tuitavake, Israel Dagg.

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The Hurricanes were unlucky to miss the play-offs last year and with a stronger squad should be right in the mix again in 2015.

NEW ’CANES COACH TARGETS CONSISTENCYside was a real standout, so when you consider with Dane Coles, Ben Franks, Jeremy Thrush and Victor Vito there are four All Blacks in the pack. Add in Ardie Savea, Jeff Toomaga-Allen and Motu Matu’u and I think it is a pretty handy forward pack.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Geoffrey Cridge, Christian Lloyd, Callum Gibbons, Iopu Iopu-Aso. Backs: Vince Aso, Willis Halaholo, Ray Lee-Lo, Ma’a Nonu, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Jason Woodward.

LAST YEAR: SEVENTH PLACE. The Hurricanes missed the play-offs by a single point as they did in 2012. They had a tough draw away in South Africa and lost their

opening three games. If not for their poor start, they would have cruised into the play-offs.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Cricket World Cup priority for Westpac Stadium means the Hurricanes repeat last year’s start of two games in South Africa, and then face the Western Force in Perth. The Hurricanes will play five matches at Westpac Stadium and one each in Napier and Palmerston North.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: 2015 sees a new head coach, Chris Boyd, and assistant, John Plumtree. Both bring a wealth of experience, and passion for the franchise.

New Zealand Under-20 coach Boyd says consistency is what the Hurricanes have lacked.

“We need it in our game to make the top six as a minimum point at the end of the season. It is something that has eluded the Hurricanes for the last five years so we would be pretty keen to put that right.

“The Hurricanes will reflect on how they have been really close to making play-offs but they have not got across the line. They have been denied at the 11th hour for not accumulating enough points during the competition. That will be a clear focus for us: that we need to accumulate more points during the season.”

All Blacks second-five Ma’a Nonu returns to his home city and franchise after three years away at the Highlanders and Blues. He is one of several All Blacks in a star-studded backline that will not lack motivation.

“I do not see it as a problem having so many All Blacks,” says Boyd. “The motivation comes from themselves at the end of the day. There is an elephant in the room in 2015 which is the World Cup so potentially there are half a dozen guys that will have World Cup duties for New Zealand. Most of those guys are competing for spots and will want to perform well for the Hurricanes to get selected and to take good form into the World Cup.”

The Hurricanes will field one of their strongest packs for some time, which Boyd knows is fundamental to his team’s chances.

“James Broadhurst and Blade Thomson were two guys who had outstanding ITM Cups for the champion Taranaki side. Brad Shields in a losing Wellington

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Brendon Edmonds, Eric Stone, Ash Dixon, Mark Reddish, Jack Lam, Faifili Levave. Backs: Marty Banks, Tim Bateman, Hadleigh Parkes, Cardiff Vaega, Alipati Leiua, Andre Taylor.

LIKELY FINISH: The tough start for the Hurricanes may well count against them as it did last year. Coach Boyd has recruited well and there is definite steel in the pack to go with the outstanding attacking backline. Capable of beating any team when they click.

HURRICANES SQUADForwards: Reggie Goodes, John Schwalger, Ben Franks, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Chris Eves, Dane Coles, Motu Matu’u, Jeremy Thrush, James Broadhurst, Geoffrey Cridge, Christian Lloyd, Mark Abbott, Brad Shields, Blade Thomson, Ardie Savea, Callum Gibbins, Iopu Iopu-Aso, Victor Vito, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Jason Woodward.Backs: TJ Perenara, Chris Smylie, Beauden Barrett, James Marshall, Ma’a Nonu, Vince Aso, Conrad Smith, Willis Halaholo, Rey Lee-Lo, Cory Jane.

PLAYMAKER: Beauden Barrett will drive the Hurricanes from his first-five position.

WEBSITE www.hurricanes.co.nz

TICKETS www.ticketek.co.nz Phone 0800 842 538

CONTACT Level 1, 113 Adelaide Road Newtown, Wellington 6021 PO Box 7201, Wellington South 6242

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“I feel I have a good balanced team. Players that normally go under the radar have played quite a bit of football. Joe Wheeler, for example, is getting up to 50 games and guys like Nasi Manu in our group have played three or four seasons of Super Rugby.

“That is valuable for us. We have other players that have been around the traps and had a taste of Super Rugby like Dan Pryor, Lee Allan, Ash Dixon and Josh Hohneck.”

Joseph says losing three experienced locks Josh Bekhuis, Brad Thorn and Jarrad Hoeata, plus prop Chris King, is the biggest change in terms of personnel.

He is quietly confident that his team can reproduce last year’s heroics and be a serious contender again in 2015.

“Last year was the first year the Highlanders made the play-offs in 12 years. There would not be a harder working bunch than these guys. We are really aligned about how we want to do things, we really understand the region we are representing, so I would not be surprised if we are there or thereabouts.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Brendon Edmonds, Ross Geldenhuys, Josh Hohneck, Pingi Tala’apitaga, Ash Dixon, Alex Ainley, Mark Reddish, Dan Pryor. Backs: Marty Banks, Waisake Naholo.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Matías Díaz, Chris King, Ged Robinson, Josh Bekhuis, Jarrad Hoeata, Brad Thorn, TJ Ioane, Brayden Mitchell. Backs: Phil Burleigh, Winston Stanley.

LIKELY FINISH: Never write-off the Highlanders despite the lack of star power compared to other teams. A flying start could get them through to the play-offs.

HIGHLANDERS SQUAD:Forwards: Kane Hames, Pingi Tala’apitaga, Ma’afu Fia, Ross Geldenhuys, Josh Hohneck, Brendon Edmonds, Liam Coltman, Ash Dixon, Tom Franklin, Joe Wheeler, Alex Ainley, Mark Reddish, Dan Pryor, Gareth Evans, John Hardie, Shane Christie, Nasi Manu, Elliot Dixon.Backs: Aaron Smith, Fumiaki Tanaka, Marty Banks, Lima Sopoaga, Hayden Parker, Trent Renata, Shaun Treeby, Jason Emery, Malakai Fekitoa, Richard Buckman, Waisake Naholo, Patrick Osborne, Ben Smith, Kurt Baker.

The Highlanders will be high on confidence after their best season in 12 years and with five of their first six games at home they should get a flying start.

EARLY HOME FORM THE KEY FOR HIGHLANDERSDYNAMIC:

Malakai Fekitoa made a huge

impact for the Highlanders and

All Blacks in 2014.

WEBSITE www.thehighlanders.co.nz

TICKETS www.ticketdirect.co.nz

Phone 0800 224 224

CONTACT 130 Anzac Avenue

North Dunedin PO Box 6070

Dunedin 9059

PHONE 03 479 9280

L AST YEAR: SIXTH PLACE. It was a season to cherish for the brave Highlanders. They made the play-offs for the first time since 2002 and pushed

the Sharks all the way in a pulsating match in Durban, before they fell 31–27 in a game they could easily have won.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Highlanders have the ideal draw to make a flying start with an extra week to prepare due to a round-one bye. Then five of their next six games are at home at Forsyth Barr Stadium.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Expectations are high down south for the Highlanders after last year’s outstanding campaign. With a favourable draw and the unique team culture that head coach Jamie Joseph creates every year, the Highlanders will again be hard to beat, particularly at their indoor home stadium.

But they will do it with a mostly new-look side headed by their three outstanding All Blacks Aaron Smith, Ben Smith and Malakai Fekitoa.

“There are a lot of new guys at the Highlanders this year,” says Joseph. “There are no major signings. There is no Sonny Bill Williams. What we have learned over the years is you have to get the right balance in your team. You can’t have too many young guys and certainly can’t have too many superstars.

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Key signings in winger James O’Connor, former All Blacks flanker Adam Thomson and fullback Karmichael Hunt may well dictate just how well the Reds do this campaign. Graham says they have made a huge impact on the confidence levels within the squad.

“James has been on the international stage since he was 19 and there is no doubting his rugby ability. He is a really good addition to our back three and we are pleased to have him here. Karmichael has a big following for a number of reasons. He was the youngest player ever at the Brisbane Broncos to play NRL and he played a Heineken Cup final with Biarritz and has come here from AFL. He has made huge and immediate impact with the Reds.

“Adam Thomson for me is a really important addition to the team. When he played for the Highlanders he was at the heart of everything. He is an awkward style of attacking footballer who runs very well in the wide channels and one of the best in the game aerially.”

The new recruits will join one of the competition’s brightest attacking forces alongside Will Genia,

L AST YEAR: 13TH PLACE. With new coach Richard Graham at the helm, the season could not have gone much worse for one of the traditional powerhouses

of Australian rugby. They finished fourth in the conference, ahead of the Rebels.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Reds start with an away trip to Canberra where they beat the Brumbies last year. The Force are the first visitors to Suncorp Stadium before a tough away trip to play the Highlanders. Two home games follow against the Waratahs and Brumbies before a bye. Crucially they finish with three of the last four games at home.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Coach Richard Graham admits last year was hugely disappointing on a number of levels and knows a repeat campaign will not be tolerated.

“We have a high expectation of ourselves in 2015 in terms of our goals,” he says. “That is not something we will share publicly but individually and collectively as a team we would like to be better. If we can win our home games then that should get us into the top six.”

By Peter White — Queensland Reds were hurt and humiliated last year with just five wins to 11 losses. “How we confront our responsibility is what defines us” is this year’s team mantra.

REDEMPTION FOR AUSSIE ICONS

WEBSITE www.redsrugby.com.au

TICKETS [email protected]

Phone +61 300 753 733

CONTACT PO Box 205

Kelvin Grove DC, Brisbane,

Queensland 4059

PHONE +61 7 3354 9333

T H E A U S T R A L I A N C O N F E R E N C E * P l a y e r d e t a i l s a n d f a c t s w e r e c o r r e c t a t t h e t i m e o f p r i n t .

KEY PLAYER: Reds’ first-five Quade Cooper is set to recapture his best form.

Quade Cooper, Liam Gill and Lachie Turner. Look out for 20-year-old first-five Duncan Paia’aua, who came through the Queensland development programme before a short stint at rugby league.

The fourth major recruit is Hendrik Tui, a 27-year-old New Zealand-born No.8, who joined the Reds from Suntory Sungoliaths, where he played alongside George Smith. Tui has played 27 tests for Japan.

Despite the high-profile signings, there were no high-quality hookers or props recruited. Question marks still remain over the quality and depth of the tight five and, in such a brutal physical competition as the Super 15, this is a key determining factor with the high numbers of injuries to front rowers.

Reliable winger Rod Davies has moved on to Biarritz and Mike Harris to the Rebels.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Adam Thomson, Hendrik Tui. Backs: James O’Connor, Karmichael Hunt, Duncan Paia’aua.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Jono Owen, Albert Anae. Backs: Ben Lucas, Mike Harris, Aidan Toua, Dom Shipperley, Rod Davies.

LIKELY FINISH: Clearly last year was not good enough, so expect to see the Reds move up the table. Unlikely to make the play-offs but they will be entertaining with James O’Connor and Karmichael Hunt adding to an already talented backline. Tight five may again be the area that holds them back.

QUEENSLAND REDS SQUAD:Forwards: Ben Daley, Saia Fainga’a, James Slipper, James Hanson, Greg Holmes, Andrew Ready, Dave McDuling, Ed O’Donoghue, Rob Simmons, James Horwill, Curtis Browning, Liam Gill, Eddie

Quirk, Beau Robinson, Jake Schatz, Hendrik Tui, Adam Thomson.

Backs: Nick Frisby, Will Genia, Quade Cooper, Duncan Paia’aua, Anthony Fainga’a, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Samu Kerevi, Ben Tapuai, Campbell Magnay, Chris Kuridrani, James O’Connor, Lachie Turner, Karmichael Hunt, Jamie-Jerry Taulagi.

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Keen to defend their title, the Waratahs certainly have the ability with some of the most powerful and dangerous players around. They have a tough draw, but are the team to watch.

DEFENDING CHAMPS AFTER REPEAT WINMATCH WINNER:

Kurtley Beale is one of the key attacking

weapons for the Waratahs.

WEBSITE www.waratahs.com.au

TICKETS www.proticket.com.au

CONTACT Locked Bag 1222

Paddington 2021, Sydney, New South Wales

PHONE +61 2 9323 3300

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The defending champs have a tough draw with both byes coming in the first half of the season, leaving a run of 10 straight games with two games in South Africa and the Reds at home to finish. But they avoid the Chiefs in 2015.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: With a powerful pack, some of the most dangerous ball runners in the game in Israel Folau, Adam Ashley-Cooper and Kurtley Beale, and a clever first-five in Bernard Foley, the Waratahs have the players to defend their title. No question about that.

But head coach Michael Cheika insists they are looking to go out and win it again from scratch.

“There is nothing to defend. You start the season at zero points. We have a trophy but it is anybody’s once the season starts and it is all about ensuring

we are improving in our style of play and adapt a little bit as well.

“Based on last year we are still well and truly in the middle of our project to get the Waratahs to become a real team to be reckoned with.

“We have a five-year plan of building all our teams so the stream of players underneath learn exactly how we are playing the game and what’s required if you are going to pull on our jersey and compete at Super Rugby.

“We had a really clear idea on how we wanted to play the game and everyone bought into that and then committed themselves to hard work at training, making the right choices to prepare well every day. Then we had a little bit of luck as well. It was the first time we won it and we want to make sure we are there or thereabouts every year.”

The Waratahs have retained the majority of last year’s winning squad with only a few new players. Former rugby league star Taqele Naiyaravoro joined late in last year’s campaign and is now set to make an impact on the wing.

Australian Under-20 star Andrew Kellaway is regarded as the brightest young rugby talent since Kurtley Beale, while former Warriors league player Sam Lousi joins the locking ranks.

Cheika is under more pressure than most in World Cup year as head coach of both the Waratahs and the Wallabies. He says he is enjoying the challenge of both roles but his initial focus is on guiding the Waratahs to back-to-back titles.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Sam Lousi. Backs: Andrew Kellaway, Taqele Naiyaravoro.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Kane Douglas. Backs: Alofa Alofa, Can Crawford.

LIKELY FINISH: Who wins the Super Rugby title is likely to come down to home advantage. If the Waratahs host the final in Sydney again they will be favourites to defend their title.

WARATAHS SQUAD: Forwards: Tatafu Polatu-Nau, Hugh Roach, Tolu Latu, Michael Alaalatoa, Sekope Kepu, Benn Robinson, Paddy Ryan, Jeremy Tilse, David Dennis, Jed Holloway, Will Skelton, Pat McCutcheon, Michael Hooper, Stephen Hoiles, Jacques Potgieter, Wycliff Palu, Mitchell Chapman, Tala Gray.

Backs: Nick Phipps, Brendon McKibbin, Ben Lolavola, David Horwitz, Bernard Foley, Jono Lance, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Matt Carraro, Rob Horne, Kurtley Beale, Andrew Kellaway, Taqele Naiyaravoro, Peter Betham, Israel Folau.

L AST YEAR: CHAMPIONS. It was almost the perfect campaign by the Australian powerhouse, who had never won a Super title. They won 12 of their 16 games,

including their last seven, before triumphing in the play-offs. The 33–32 win over the Crusaders in the final is an all-time classic.

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INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY Game Schedule GAME VENUE NZ TIME

ROUND 1FRI, 13 FEB Crusaders v Rebels Christchurch 7:35 pm

FRI, 13 FEB Brumbies v Reds Canberra 9:40 pm

SAT, 14 FEB Lions v Hurricanes Johannesburg 6:10 am

SAT, 14 FEB Blues v Chiefs Albany 7:35 pm

SUN, 15 FEB Sharks v Cheetahs Durban 4:05 am

SUN, 15 FEB Bulls v Stormers Pretoria 6:10 am

SUN, 15 FEB Waratahs v Force Sydney 6:05 pm

BYE: Highlanders

GAME VENUE NZ TIMEROUND 6FRI, 20 MARCH Highlanders v Hurricanes Dunedin 7:35 pm

FRI, 20 MARCH Rebels v Lions Melbourne 9:40 pm

SAT, 21 MARCH Crusaders v Cheetahs Christchurch 7:35 pm

SUN, 22 MARCH Bulls v Force Pretoria 4:05 am

SUN, 22 MARCH Sharks v Chiefs Durban 6:10 am

SUN, 22 MARCH Waratahs v Brumbies Sydney 6:05 pm

BYES: Blues, Reds, Stormers

ROUND 7FRI, 27 MARCH Hurricanes v Rebels Wellington 7:35 pm

FRI, 27 MARCH Reds v Lions Brisbane 10:00 pm

SAT, 28 MARCH Chiefs v Cheetahs Hamilton 4:30 pm

SAT, 28 MARCH Highlanders v Stormers Dunedin 7:35 pm

SAT, 28 MARCH Waratahs v Blues Sydney 9:40 pm

SUN, 29 MARCH Sharks v Force Durban 4:05 am

SUN, 29 MARCH Bulls v Crusaders Pretoria 6:10 am

BYE: Brumbies

ROUND 8 DAYLIGHT SAVINGS AUST & NZ FINISHES and EASTER WEEKEND

FRI, 03 APRIL Hurricanes v Stormers Wellington 7:35 pm

FRI, 03 APRIL Rebels v Reds Melbourne 9:40 pm

SAT, 04 APRIL Chiefs v Blues Hamilton 7:35 pm

SAT, 04 APRIL Brumbies v Cheetahs Canberra 9:40 pm

SUN, 05 APRIL Sharks v Crusaders Durban 2:00 am

SUN, 05 APRIL Lions v Bulls Johannesburg 3:05 am

BYES: Force, Highlanders, Waratahs

ROUND 9FRI, 10 APRIL Blues v Brumbies Auckland 7:35 pm

SAT, 11 APRIL Crusaders v Highlanders Christchurch 7:35 pm

SAT, 11 APRIL Waratahs v Stormers Sydney 9:40 pm

SAT, 11 APRIL Force v Cheetahs Perth 11:45 pm

SUN, 12 APRIL Bulls v Reds Pretoria 1:00 am

SUN, 12 APRIL Lions v Sharks Johannesburg 3:05 am

BYES: Chiefs, Hurricanes, Rebels

ROUND 10FRI, 17 APRIL Crusaders v Chiefs Christchurch 7:35 pm

SAT, 18 APRIL Hurricanes v Waratahs Wellington 4:30 pm

SAT, 18 APRIL Highlanders v Blues Dunedin 7:35 pm

SAT, 18 APRIL Brumbies v Rebels Canberra 9:40 pm

SAT, 18 APRIL Force v Stormers Perth 11:45 pm

SUN, 19 APRIL Sharks v Bulls Durban 3:05 am

SUN, 19 APRIL Cheetahs v Reds Bloemfontein 5:10 am

BYE: Lions

ROUND 2FRI, 20 FEB Chiefs v Brumbies New Plymouth 7:35 pm

FRI, 20 FEB Rebels v Waratahs Melbourne 9:40 pm

SAT, 21 FEB Bulls v Hurricanes Pretoria 6:10 am

SAT, 21 FEB Highlanders v Crusaders Dunedin 7:35 pm

SAT, 21 FEB Reds v Force Brisbane 9:40 pm

SUN, 22 FEB Stormers v Blues Cape Town 4:05 am

SUN, 22 FEB Sharks v Lions Durban 6:10 am

BYE: Cheetahs

ROUND 3FRI, 27 FEB Highlanders v Reds Dunedin 7:35 pm

SAT, 28 FEB Force v Hurricanes Perth 12:00 am

SAT, 28 FEB Cheetahs v Blues Bloemfontein 6:10 am

SAT, 28 FEB Chiefs v Crusaders Hamilton 7:35 pm

SAT, 28 FEB Rebels v Brumbies Melbourne 9:40 pm

SUN, 01 MARCH Bulls v Sharks Pretoria 4:05 am

SUN, 01 MARCH Lions v Stormers Johannesburg 6:10 am

BYE: Waratahs

ROUND 4FRI, 06 MARCH Chiefs v Highlanders Hamilton 7:35 pm

FRI, 06 MARCH Brumbies v Force Canberra 9:40 pm

SAT, 07 MARCH Blues v Lions Albany 7:35 pm

SAT, 07 MARCH Reds v Waratahs Brisbane 9:40 pm

SUN, 08 MARCH Cheetahs v Bulls Bloemfontein 4:05 am

SUN, 08 MARCH Stormers v Sharks Cape Town 6:10 am

BYES: Crusaders, Hurricanes, Rebels

ROUND 5FRI, 13 MARCH Hurricanes v Blues Palmerston North 7:35 pm

SAT, 14 MARCH Force v Rebels Perth 12:00 am

SAT, 14 MARCH Crusaders v Lions Christchurch 4:30 pm

SAT, 14 MARCH Highlanders v Waratahs Dunedin 7:35 pm

SAT, 14 MARCH Reds v Brumbies Brisbane 9:40 pm

SUN, 15 MARCH Stormers v Chiefs Cape Town 2:00 am

SUN, 15 MARCH Cheetahs v Sharks Bloemfontein 4:05 am

BYE: Bulls

2015 SEASON’S DRAW

IT’S A CHANCE TO WIN $25,000* GET INTO PLACEMAKERS, PICK UP A GAME DAY HARD HAT & SET UP YOUR USER PROFILE AT WWW.PLACEMAKERS.CO.NZ/GAMEDAY*Terms & conditions apply, go to www.placemakers.co.nz/gameday for details.

For up-to-date information visit superrugby.co.nz

All times listed below are New Zealand local times and were correct at time of print.

VENUE VENUE NZ TIMEROUND 11 ANZAC DAY WEEKEND

FRI, 24 APRIL Chiefs v Force Hamilton 7:35 pm

FRI, 24 APRIL Brumbies v Highlanders Canberra 9:40 pm

SAT, 25 APRIL Crusaders v Blues Christchurch 7:35 pm

SAT, 25 APRIL Waratahs v Rebels Sydney 9:40 pm

SUN, 26 APRIL Lions v Cheetahs Johannesburg 3:05 am

SUN, 26 APRIL Stormers v Bulls Cape Town 5:10 am

SUN, 26 APRIL Reds v Hurricanes Brisbane 6:05 pm

BYE: Sharks

GAME VENUE NZ TIMEROUND 16FRI, 29 MAY Crusaders v Hurricanes Nelson 7:35 pm

FRI, 29 MAY Brumbies v Bulls Canberra 9:40 pm

SAT, 30 MAY Sharks v Rebels Durban 5:10 am

SAT, 30 MAY Highlanders v Chiefs Invercargill 7:35 pm

SAT, 30 MAY Force v Reds Perth 9:40 pm

SUN, 31 MAY Stormers v Cheetahs Cape Town 3:05 am

SUN, 31 MAY Lions v Waratahs Johannesburg 5:10 am

BYE: Blues

ROUND 12FRI, 01 MAY Highlanders v Sharks Dunedin 7:35 pm

FRI, 01 MAY Brumbies v Waratahs Canberra 9:40 pm

SAT, 02 MAY Blues v Force Auckland 5:30 pm

SAT, 02 MAY Hurricanes v Crusaders Wellington 7:35 pm

SAT, 02 MAY Rebels v Chiefs Melbourne 9:40 pm

SUN, 03 MAY Cheetahs v Stormers Bloemfontein 3:05 am

SUN, 03 MAY Bulls v Lions Pretoria 5:10 am

BYE: Reds

ROUND 17FRI, 05 JUNE Hurricanes v Highlanders Wellington 7:35 pm

FRI, 05 JUNE Force v Brumbies Perth 11:00 pm

SAT, 06 JUNE Rebels v Bulls Melbourne 5:30 pm

SAT, 06 JUNE Blues v Crusaders Auckland 7:35 pm

SAT, 06 JUNE Reds v Chiefs Brisbane 9:40 pm

SUN, 07 JUNE Cheetahs v Waratahs Bloemfontein 1:00 am

SUN, 07 JUNE Stormers v Lions Cape Town 3:05 am

BYE: Sharks

ROUND 13 FRI, 08 MAY Crusaders v Reds Christchurch 7:35 pm

FRI, 08 MAY Rebels v Blues Melbourne 9:40 pm

SAT, 09 MAY Hurricanes v Sharks Wellington 7:35 pm

SAT, 09 MAY Force v Waratahs Perth 9:40 pm

SUN, 10 MAY Lions v Highlanders Johannesburg 1:00 am

SUN, 10 MAY Stormers v Brumbies Cape Town 3:05 am

BYES: Bulls, Cheetahs, Chiefs

ROUND 18FRI, 12 JUNE Blues v Highlanders Auckland 7:35 pm

FRI, 12 JUNE Rebels v Force Melbourne 9:40 pm

SAT, 13 JUNE Brumbies v Crusaders Canberra 5:30 pm

SAT, 13 JUNE Chiefs v Hurricanes New Plymouth 7:35 pm

SAT, 13 JUNE Waratahs v Reds Sydney 9:40 pm

SUN, 14 JUNE Bulls v Cheetahs Pretoria 3:05 am

SUN, 14 JUNE Sharks v Stormers Durban 5:10 am

BYE: Lions

ROUND 14FRI, 15 MAY Blues v Bulls Auckland 7:35 pm

FRI, 15 MAY Reds v Rebels Brisbane 9:40 pm

SAT, 16 MAY Hurricanes v Chiefs Wellington 7:35 pm

SAT, 16 MAY Waratahs v Sharks Sydney 9:40 pm

SUN, 17 MAY Lions v Brumbies Johannesburg 3:05 am

SUN, 17 MAY Cheetahs v Highlanders Bloemfontein 5:10 am

BYES: Crusaders, Force, Stormers

THE FINALSSUPER RUGBY QUALIFIERSBYE: Team 1 and Team 2

FRI, 19 JUNE Team 3 v Team 6

SAT, 20 JUNE Team 4 v Team 5

SUPER RUGBY SEMI-FINALSFRI, 26 JUNE Team 1 v Lowest Ranked Qualifier Winner

SAT, 27 JUNE Team 2 v Highest Ranked Qualifier Winner

SUPER RUGBY FINAL SATURDAY, 4 JULY

FINAL WINNER OF SEMI 1 v WINNER OF SEMI 2

NB: Times, dates and venues subject to change

ROUND 15FRI, 22 MAY Chiefs v Bulls Rotorua 7:35 pm

FRI, 22 MAY Reds v Sharks Brisbane 9:40 pm

SAT, 23 MAY Blues v Hurricanes Auckland 7:35 pm

SAT, 23 MAY Waratahs v Crusaders Sydney 9:40 pm

SAT, 23 MAY Force v Highlanders Perth 11:45 pm

SUN, 24 MAY Cheetahs v Lions Bloemfontein 3:05 am

SUN, 24 MAY Stormers v Rebels Cape Town 5:10 am

BYE: Brumbies

IT’S A CHANCE TO WIN $25,000* GET INTO PLACEMAKERS, PICK UP A GAME DAY HARD HAT & SET UP YOUR USER PROFILE AT WWW.PLACEMAKERS.CO.NZ/GAMEDAY*Terms & conditions apply, go to www.placemakers.co.nz/gameday for details.

DATE GAME VENUE NZ TIME

All Blacks v Manu Samoa

WED, 8 JULY All Blacks v Manu Samoa Apia 2:00 pm

oliverlee.co.nz Super RUGBY 2015 page 26

The Force had a strong focus on retention and the promotion of players from within, like Luke Burton and Francois van Wyk. Foley says there was a need to recruit some players from outside the group.

“Additional size and speed, and the ability to break tackles has been a focus. From a forwards perspective, Steve Mafi joins us after four seasons with the Leicester Tigers. He’s always been a powerful ball carrier, but has now developed a good understanding of the tight elements of the game, which places him in a position to play both No.6 and lock. Similarly, fullback Ross Haylett-Petty, a local Perth boy, has been rewarded for a strong campaign with the Australian Under-20s.

“We’ve also added two backs from New Zealand, young and exciting talents, in Albert Nikoro and Mitch Scott. Albert provides versatility across 13, 15 and wing, as well as being a recognised goal kicker. Mitch was part of the Tasman Makos ITM Cup squad, and has also been a part of the Crusaders and New Zealand Under-20 programmes.”

Japanese international winger Akihito Yamada has speed to burn and crowd favourite Nick “Honey Badger” Cummins returns after one season in Japan. Marcel Brache, Dane Haylett-Petty, Luke Morahan and Patrick Dellit give the Force good depth in the back three.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Steve Mafi. Backs: Mitchell Scott, Akihito Yamada, Albert Nikoro.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Kieran Longbottom, Salesi Manu, Phoenix Battye, Ryan Hodson, Hugh McMeniman. Backs: Justin Turner, Jayden Hayward, Chris Tuatara-Morrison, Dillyn Leyds.

LIKELY FINISH: Rugby is on a high in Western Australia and the Force are driving it after last year’s record-breaking campaign. Their home venue in Perth is a fortress no team is comfortable playing at and if they can nick some wins on the road they could well make the play-offs.

WESTERN FORCE SQUAD:Forwards: Chris Alcock, Nathan Charles, Adam Coleman, Angus Cottrell, Pek Cowan, Tetera Faulkner, Chris Heiberg, Matt Hodgson (captain), Oliver Hoskins, Steve Mafi, Ben McCalman, Brynard Stander, Wilhelm Steenkamp, Heath Tessmann, Rory Walton, Sam Wykes, Francois van Wyk, Ross Haylett-Petty.

Backs: Marcel Brache, Luke Burton, Nick Cummins, Patrick Dellit, Sias Ebersohn, Kyle Godwin, Dane Haylett-Petty, Zack Holmes, Alby Mathewson, Luke Morahan, Albert Nikoro, Ian Prior, Solomoni Rasolea, Mitchell Scott, Akihito Yamada.

L AST YEAR: EIGHTH PLACE. After dropping their first two games, the Force went on a franchise record winning run and looked set to make the play-offs for

the first time, until a late dip of three losses means they missed out by two points.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: It is a reasonably tough start with two away games against the Waratahs and Reds, followed by a trip to Canberra to play the Brumbies in round four. The Force finish with three of their last four games at home in Perth.

TOP CLASS: Former All Black

halfback Alby Mathewson is a senior player in the

Western Force squad.

WEBSITE www.westernforce.com.au

TICKETS www.ticketmaster.com.au

CONTACT 203 Underwood Ave,

Floreat PO Box 146,

Floreat WA 6014

PHONE +61 8 9387 0700

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Michael Foley wants the Force to become a consistent top-six side.

“Last year we achieved the milestone of becoming the most successful team in the club’s history, by exceeding the previous best of seven wins for the season,” he says. “Importantly, every member within our team shares a determination to again become the most successful team in the club’s history. We developed the ability to win consistently, which was something the club hadn’t previously been able to achieve and was an important step in our growth as a team.

“Realising the ambition of delivering back-to-back seasons will require a desire to again challenge the standards we set ourselves and the commitment we have to playing for each other and earning the respect of our fans.”

Last season the Force recorded a franchise-best finish of third in the Australian conference. They won six of their eight home games, making Perth one of the toughest places to win.

THE FORCE ARE REAL PLAY-OFF CONTENDERS


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The backline is full of attacking talent in Nic White, Matt Toomua, Jesse Mogg, Christian Lealiifano, Henry Speight and Joe Tomane, plus Kiwi-born Nigel Ah Wong — a new signing from Japan. The Brumbies have a useful pack with props Ben Alexander and Scott Sio, locks Scott Fardy and Tom Staniforth, and flanker David Pocock proven performers. Young lock Sam Carter played three Tests on the Wallabies end-of-year tour to Europe and is ready to step up.

The Brumbies’ key player is Wallaby hooker Stephen Moore, who will captain the side. He returns after last year’s knee reconstruction and forms a strong leadership group with co-vice captains Nic White and David Pocock.

Larkham says the players are desperate to end the Brumbies’ Super Rugby title drought, but also to ensure that they are part of Michael Cheika’s Wallabies World Cup squad in September.

“There’s a big focus for Australian rugby at the moment on this World Cup and a number of Brumbies guys are in that frame, certainly all the guys who toured at the end of the year last year,” he says. “There’s no doubt that will be in their thoughts this year, they’ll be very keen, they’ve all bought into it to ensure they have a really good year for the Brumbies.

“They know if they play well for the Brumbies in Super Rugby there will be more opportunities after that.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Les Makin, Rory Arnold, Blake Enever, Sean Doyle. Backs: Nigel Ah Wong, Lausil Taliauli, James Dargaville.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Ruaidhri Murphy, Jack Whetton, Leon Power, Lachlan McCaffrey, Ben Mowen. Backs: Conrad Hoffmann, Lionel Cronje, Pat McCabe, Andrew Smith, Clyde Rathbone.

LIKELY FINISH: Canberra Stadium is a tough place for opposing teams to win and the Brumbies need to take advantage of that. If they can improve their poor road record from last year they will be right in the mix for the title.

BRUMBIES SQUAD:Forwards: Les Makin, Rory Arnold, Blake Enever, Sean Doyle, Tom Staniforth, Allan Alaalatoa, Ben Alexander, Potu Auelua, Jarrod Butler, Sam Carter, Scott Fardy, Joshua Mann-Rea, Stephen Moore (captain), David Pocock, Siliva Siliva, Scott Sio, Jordan Smiler, Jean-Pierre Smith.

Backs: Nigel Ah Wong, Lausil Taliauli, James Dargaville, Rodney Iona, Robbie Coleman, Michael Dowsett, Christian Lealiifano, Jesse Mogg, Henry Speight, Joe Tomane, Matt Toomua, Nic White.

L AST YEAR: FOURTH PLACE. The Brumbies had a fine season that ended in a semi-final loss to eventual champions Waratahs. They got off to a flying start

winning seven of their opening nine games, but lost four of their last seven.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: They open with a big derby against the Reds before challenging away games against the Chiefs and Rebels. Their South African trip starts Round 13 and two of their last three matches are at home.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Brumbies have regained their status as one of the best Super Rugby teams after being runner-up in 2013 and making the semi-finals last year. But the two-time champions are saddled with debt and last December announced a $1.07 million loss and have cut $100,000 from their high-performance budget for this season. They will start the season without a front of shirt naming sponsor — estimated to be worth a million dollars a season.

But cometh the hour, cometh the man — in the form of new head coach Stephen Larkham, one of the all-time great players for the Brumbies and Wallabies, who shared the role with Director of Rugby Laurie Fisher last year. Larkham has committed to the Brumbies for another three years and turned down the role of Wallabies assistant coach last year.

Larkham’s influence was evident in 2014 as the Brumbies went back to their innovative style and scored 48 tries, the most since they won their second title in 2004.

The Brumbies may well be serious contenders this year, after solid seasons in 2013 and 2014. If their new head coach improves their away game performances they’ll be right in the mix.

LARKHAM TO START NEW BRUMBIES DYNASTY

FULLY FIT: Stephen Moore is back

from a serious leg injury to lead the Brumbies.

WEBSITE www.brumbies.com.au

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L AST YEAR: 15TH PLACE. The Rebels won just four games but they included an historic first win in

South Africa over the Cheetahs and a fine win over the Brumbies. They were competitive in New Zealand but have yet to win outside of Australia.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Rebels start with a trip to Christchurch to play the Crusaders then host the Waratahs and Brumbies at home in what could be season defining matches. Their South African trip comes with four to play and they finish with two home matches.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Tony McGahan makes no secret that last year was difficult as he took over a struggling team. There have been wholesale changes on and off the field over the summer and he is confident he can put a competitive team on the park for every game in 2015.

“The franchise needed to be restructured. We have had a huge amount of personnel move on, with 15 players in one year, 50 per cent of the on-field staff and six CEOs in the first three years so there has been huge instability in the club,” he says.

With major back-room reconstruction and player mo vement, the Rebels have been an unsettled franchise for several seasons. Now that’s been put to rest and th ey can focus on being competitive.

CHANGE OF ATTITUDE IN PLACE FOR THE REBELS

WEBSITE www.melbournerebels.com.au

TICKETS www.ticketek.com.au

CONTACT PO Box 29, Parkville,

Victoria 3052

PHONE +61 300 GO REBELS

(300 4673 2357)

RISING STAR:

Tom Kingston is one of the promising young talents in

the Rebels squad.

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With major back-room reconstruction and player mo vement, the Rebels have been an unsettled franchise for several seasons. Now that’s been put to rest and th ey can focus on being competitive.

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“The first thing [was] to set new standards about what the playing side can do and find out who could handle Super 15 rugby and try and build something that could be sustainable for a period of time.”

The marquee signings are veteran Wallabies forward

Radike Samo, who at 38 is still a powerhouse competitor, former North Harbour and Reds utility back Mike Harris, promising young lock Steve Cummins, and reliable wingers Dom Shipperley and Cam Crawford.

“The tight five is such a combatitive position in Super Rugby and we really needed some depth there,” says McMahon. “We have an exceptionally young group and Radike certainly brings us experience from a playing perspective but more than that he brings true value to the culture and the group dynamics of what we are trying to build down here. He has been in a lot of winning environments.

“Steve Cummins we have tracked for a while. We have lost quite a few locks so to capture one of the best young talents in Australia in that

position is really important. Mike is someone we were really keen to get as we were really inexperienced last year in the halves and he brings a real calmness, he is an outstanding goal kicker, and can play midfield, fullback and five-eighths.”

Fijian-born midfielder Sefanaia Naivalu makes history as the first played to be selected directly from the local Victorian club competition, which McMahon says is a crucial step in trying to build a local support base in an AFL stronghold.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Radike Samo. Backs: Mike Harris, Sefanaia Naivalu, Cam Crawford, Dom Shipperley, Jonah Placid.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Eddie Aholelei, Max Lahiff, Steve Fualau, Hugh Pyle, Chris Thomson. Backs: Angus Roberts, Lalakai Foketi, Lachlan Mitchell, Male Sa’u, Alex Rokobaro, Jason Woodward.

LIKELY FINISH: The Rebels have a long way to go to be contenders but they are on the right track with a fine head coach, some better players joining and the good will of the Melbourne sporting public.

REBELS SQUADForwards: Pat Leafa, Shota Horie, Tom Sexton, Cruze Ah-Nau, Paul Alo-Emile, Laurie Weeks, Toby Smith, Steve Cummins, Sam Jeffries, Cadeyrn Neville, Luke Jones, Colby Fainga’a, Sean McMahon, Scott Fuglistaller, Jordy Reid, Radike Samo, Lopeti Timani, Scott Higginbotham.

Backs: Luke Burgess, Ben Meehan, Nic Stirzaker, Bryce Hegarty, Jack Debreczeni, Tamati Ellison, Tom English, Mike Harris, Mitch Inman, Sefanaia Naivalu, Dom Shipperley, Tom Kingston, Telusa Veainu, Jonah Placid, Cam Crawford.



within seven points, yet lost. Our inability to finish when coming within 10 metres of the try-line was exploited by our opponents.”

Apart from the new signings, the Bulls have a couple of gifted youngsters edging towards maturity. Chief among them is ’Bok first five-eighth Handré Pollard. The question is whether the Bulls will make full use of his talent. Often they demand that their No.10 plays in the pocket, whereas Pollard is comfortable closer to the advantage line.

“Handré is good enough to be able to vary his approach as the situation demands. His feel for the game and decision-making are good,” Ludeke said.

The availability of Springbok loose forwards Pierre Spies and Arno Botha will virtually feel like new signings. Spies, the Bulls’ captain, was ruled out for the rest of their 2014 campaign after round one, while a serious knee injury suffered in pre-season put paid to Botha’s involvement.

“We know we have enough talent and the playing style to be there at the end,” Ludeke said. “If we play to the best of our ability, we will be difficult to beat — home and away.”

WHO’S NEW: Springbok front-rowers Trevor Nyakane and Adriaan Strauss could spur the Bulls on to greater heights. Forwards: Lappies Labuschagné, Trevor Nyakane, Adriaan Strauss. Backs: Dan Kriel, Burger Odendaal.

WHO’S THROUGH: The Bulls have lost useful youngsters in hooker Bongi Mbonambi and lock Paul Willemse, but have the depth to absorb the blows. Forwards: Frik Kirsten, Bongi Mbonambi, Dewald Potgieter, Jono Ross, Wimpie van der Walt, Paul Willemse. Backs: Louis Fouché, Sampie Mastriet.

LIKELY FINISH: The talent is there to mount a good challenge for honours, but doubts remain over whether they will be expansive enough in their tactical thinking to challenge the best New Zealand and Australia have to offer.

BULLS SQUAD:Forwards: Arno Botha, Jacques du Plessis, Dean Greyling, Grant Hattingh, Irne Herbst, Werner Kruger, Lappies Labuschagné, Wiaan Liebenberg, Bandise Maku, Victor Matfield, Morne Mellett, Trevor Nyakane, Marvin Orie, Pierre Spies (captain), Deon Stegmann, Adriaan Strauss, Flip van der Merwe, Marcel van der Merwe, Callie Visagie.

Backs: Bjorn Basson, JJ Engelbrecht, Francois Hougaard, Dan Kriel, Jesse Kriel, Akona Ndungane, Burger Odendaal, Rudy Paige, Handré Pollard, Jacques-Louis Potgieter, Jan Serfontein, William Small-Smith, Piet van Zyl, Jurgen Visser.

By Stephen Nell — The Bulls have been gifted a fantastic draw, but they will need to remedy last year’s away game drought if they are to improve their standing in 2015.

L AST YEAR: NINTH PLACE. With the exception of a draw against the Chiefs, the Bulls won all their home matches. However, defeat in all eight of their away

games condemned them to a modest finish. In five of those losses, however, they came within the seven points required for a bonus point.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Bulls have hit the jackpot with their draw. They have 11 matches in South Africa prior to touring, seven of them at their Loftus stronghold. In addition, there is a bye before their Australasian sojourn. The other bye is in round five. Lucky them.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The signing of high-profile forwards from the Cheetahs in hooker Adriaan Strauss, loosehead prop Trevor Nyakane and flanker Lappies Labuschagné is a statement of intent.

Strauss will add immense value with his leadership, work rate and ability to execute the basics well, while Nyakane will bring strength to a previously vulnerable scrum. As far as Labuschagné goes, the only thing between him and a Springbok jersey is the immense depth South Africa have among their backrowers.

Coach Frans Ludeke has focused his pre-season on areas that will hopefully address last year’s perplexing away form.

“We have spent a great deal of time on conditioning to allow us to last the full 80 minutes, as well as basic skills,” he said. “Our away form was the big problem last year and on quite a few occasions we came

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YOUNG GUN: Gifted young Springbok first five-eighth Handré

Pollard will be key to the Bulls’ hopes.

WEBSITE www.thebulls.co.za

TICKETS www.ticketpro.co.za

Phone +27 12 0861-008-277

CONTACT Loftus Versfeld, Kirkness Street,

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The Cheetahs have a tough draw, they’ve lost several senior players to the Bulls and last year’s defensive woes are still fresh. It’ll be a challenging 2015.

L AST YEAR: 14TH PLACE. The Cheetahs conceded an incredible 527 points, which amounts to an average of 33 per game. To put their defensive

woes into perspective: They took 60 against both the Lions and Hurricanes, while conceding 52 points against the Crusaders in Bloemfontein. Little wonder then about the lowly finish.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Cheetahs have a challenging fixtures list, with a bye after round one. There is no break either side of their tour, which commences with a match against the Crusaders in the sixth round. There is a bye on the second weekend of May, but by then one predicts they will probably be well up against it.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Cheetahs, who work off a significantly smaller budget than South African giants the Sharks, Bulls and Stormers, have always showed remarkable powers of regeneration after leading players were poached.

But this time the order is probably too tall for coach Naka Drotské following the loss of hooker Adriaan Strauss and loosehead prop Trevor Nyakane to the Bulls. Lively loose forward Lappies Labuschagné has also abdicated to Pretoria, but the Cheetahs have covered that by poaching Willie Britz from the Lions.

“Our challenge will without a doubt be in the front row, where we’ve had to bring in new players and rely on Griquas [a partner union] for depth,” Drotské said.

Griquas’ acquisition of Sharks loosehead Danie Mienie will hopefully go some way towards off-setting the loss of Nyakane.

Coenie Oosthuizen, who has played much of his rugby as a loosehead, is likely to be the starting tighthead after enjoying success with the Springboks as scrum anchor.

The Cheetahs have good depth and talent among their backs, but Drotské is rolling the dice by seeking to convert former Stormers fullback Joe Pietersen into a first five-eighth.

It’s an idea that was previously toyed with in Cape Town, but never got off the ground, so good luck to Drotské.

Most of the pre-season has gone into ensuring that there isn’t a repeat of last year’s defensive calamities.

“We’ve spent 60 per cent of our time on defence and I’ve travelled to the United Kingdom for some insights from clubs such as Saracens and London Irish,” Drotské said.

While defence will be a major focus, the Cheetahs will still be at their most dangerous from counter-attacks and broken field, with Springboks Willie le Roux and Cornal Hendricks their trump cards.

A TALL ORDER FOR THE CHEETAHS PLAYMAKER: Springbok fullback Willie le Roux will be the Cheetahs’ go-to man on attack.

WEBSITE www.fscheetahs.co.za

CONTACT PO Box 15 Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa 9300

PHONE +27 51 407 1700

WHO’S NEW: The signing of Willie Britz from the Lions is a coup. Not only is he an exciting loose forward, but he can hold his own at lock if the situation demands. Forwards: Martin Bezuidenhout, Willie Britz, Stephan Coetzee, Danie Mienie, BG Uys. Backs: JP du Plessis, Willie du Plessis, Sergeal Petersen, Joe Pietersen, Michael van der Spuy.

WHO’S THROUGH: The loss of long-serving captain Adriaan Strauss to the Bulls is a blow from which the Cheetahs will struggle to recover. Forwards: Rossouw de Klerk, Andries Ferreira, Lappies Labuschagné, Trevor Nyakane, Adriaan Strauss, Philip van der Walt. Backs: Hennie Daniller, Howard Mnisi.

LIKELY FINISH: The Cheetahs won’t bore us, but probably don’t have enough talent up front or the depth to dream beyond mid-table. In fact, they are unlikely to make it that far.

CHEETAHS SQUAD:Forwards: Ryno Barnes, Torsten van Jaarsveld, Willie Britz (captain), Heinrich Brüssow, Stephan Coetzee, Jean Cook, Lood de Jager, Danie Mienie, Oupa Mohoje, Caylib Oosthuizen, Coenie Oosthuizen, Boom Prinsloo, BG Uys, Boela Serfontein, Francois Uys, Maks van Dyk, Carl Wegner.

Backs: Ryno Benjamin, Clayton Blommetjies, Francois Brümmer, JP du Plessis, Willie du Plessis, Cornal Hendricks, Willie le Roux, Tian Meyer, Sergeal Petersen, Joe Pietersen, Sarel Pretorius, Raymond Rhule, Johann Sadie, Michael van der Spuy, Francois Venter, Shaun Venter.

As always, scrumhalf Sarel Pretorius is likely to be a key player with his sniping and quick thinking.

The only question, of course, is whether a group of talented backline players will be operating off a solid enough base to spur the Cheetahs to any heights.

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INCH BY INCH FOR THE LIONSWith a focus on further development and progress, the Lions should improve their standing from last year, although winning away from home will be tough. Their scrum is a standout.

WHO’S NEW: With the Lions yet to establish themselves as a preferred destination for leading players, Ackermann has had no choice but to foster the talent at his disposal rather than make big moves in the market. Forward: Kwagga Smith. Backs: Sylvian Mahuza, Sampie Mastriet, Harold Vorster.

WHO’S THROUGH: While the Lions have good depth among their loose forwards, the departure of Willie Britz to the Cheetahs is a body blow. Forwards: Willie Britz, Franco van der Merwe. Backs: Michael Bondesio, Chrysander Botha, JW Jonker, Deon van Rensburg.

LION KING: The Lions have an exceptional leader in Warren Whiteley.

WEBSITE www.lionsrugby.co.za

CONTACT corner Currey & Staib Street Doornfontein 2028

PHONE +27 11 402 2960

L AST YEAR: 12TH PLACE. While no coach will be happy with 12th place, the Lions gave a good account of themselves with seven victories in their

first year back in Super Rugby, following the previous season’s relegation woes. The highlight was a superb 34–10 victory over the Stormers in the second round, but their lack of depth and experience saw their season unravel over April and May.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The wheel of fortune was unkind to the Lions. They have three matches in South Africa before a tough Australasian tour, with no bye either side of their travels. In fact, they have to wait until round 10 for a bye and then have their second the week preceding the play-offs. In reality, therefore, they only have one break.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: South Africans who don’t support the Lions generally have them down as their second favourite team. They have absorbed the blow of relegation and coach Johan Ackermann has turned a bunch of mostly castaway players into a highly competitive unit.

Ackermann is realistic about their prospects. They are a developing side and the emphasis will be on steady progress rather than having serious pretensions for the play-off rounds.

Nonetheless, the format of Super Rugby and its emphasis on derbies suits the Lions particularly well. They are uncomfortable opponents for South African teams and have benefited from the continuity of the past two seasons — thanks to only minor disruptions from national call-ups.

The Lions’ trump card is their scrum, with tighthead props Julian Redelinghuys and Ruan Dreyer exceptional anchors. Hooker Robbie Coetzee also made it on the Springboks’ November tour, while a bright future similarly awaits loosehead prop Schalk van der Merwe.

But it’s the team ethic fostered by Ackermann that has been key to a revival on the domestic front.

“The important thing is that we don’t have individuals who consider themselves as being above the rest. Our house is built on team spirit, camaraderie and caring for one another. We support one another — win or lose,” Ackermann said.

He has also been encouraged by the development of Warren Whiteley as captain.

“Warren is the embodiment of what we stand for: To never give up. He’s had to fight hard after not getting recognition at the Sharks and initially not always making our starting line-up,” Ackermann said.


LIKELY FINISH: The Lions will be difficult to beat on their home turf of Ellis Park but may still be a little too young to assert themselves away from home. Unlike the Currie Cup, the other South African teams are padded with their Springboks, which alters the derby dynamic.

LIONS SQUAD:Forwards: Robbie Coetzee, Stephan de Wit, Ruan Dreyer, Corné Fourie, Jaco Kriel, MB Lusaseni, Malcolm Marx, Derick Minnie, Franco Mostert, Martin Muller, Julian Redelinghuys, Kwagga Smith, Warwick Tecklenburg, Armand van der Merwe, Schalk van der Merwe, Jacques van Rooyen, Warren Whiteley (captain).

Backs: Marnitz Boshoff, Andries Coetzee, Ruan Combrinck, Ross Cronjé, Faf de Klerk, Stokkies Hanekom, Alwyn Hollenbach, Lohan Jacobs, Elton Jantjies, Sylvian Mahuza, Lionel Mapoe, Sampie Mastriet, Howard Mnisi, Courtnall Skosan, Rohan Janse van Rensburg, Jaco van der Walt, Anthony Volminck, Harold Vorster, Stefan Watermeyer.


The Stormers lack of depth in key positions could be a major stumbling block while injured Springbok captain Jean de Villiers will be sorely missed.

STORMERS LOOKING TO EXPAND the approach is likely to come down to maximising opportunities from turnover possession and broken field. It’s a strategy that suits the attacking instincts of the likes of De Jongh, Van Wyk, dynamic backrower Nizaam Carr and diminutive fullback Cheslin Kolbe.

“We’ll build on what was achieved in the Currie Cup. There won’t be a departure from our defensive culture, but we were very efficient at striking from turnover ball and broken play,” Coetzee said. “The focus will be on empowering players to make good decisions.”

Vlok Cilliers’s appointment as kicking coach points to the Stormers’ approach being rooted in pragmatism, while renowned sports psychologist Henning Gericke is also on board. With Jacques Nienaber now in the employ of the South African Rugby Union, former Springbok Sevens coach Paul Treu will be in charge of defence.

WHO’S NEW: Smal, who was appointed as Western Province’s Director of Rugby amid a disintegrating Super Rugby campaign last April, has placed the emphasis on growth from within rather than solving problems by cheque book. The most significant additions are all in the front row — hooker Bongi Mbonambi, and two promising tighthead props, Wilco Louw and Vincent Koch. Forwards: Vincent Koch, Wilco Louw, Bongi Mbonambi. Backs: Robert du Preez, Dillyn Leyds, Willy Mbaka, EW Viljoen.

WHO’S THROUGH: De Villiers’s knee reconstruction sadly means he won’t be seen in a Stormers jersey again. Hooker Tiaan Liebenberg has retired, while several other experienced players have moved on.

Forwards: Pat Cilliers, Stephan Coetzee, Deon Fourie, Tazz Fuzani, Brok Harris, Tiaan Liebenberg, De Kock Steenkamp. Backs: Gio Aplon, Jean de Villiers, Peter Grant, Sailosi Tagicakibau, Michael van der Spuy.

LIKELY FINISH: The Stormers’ depth at scrumhalf and first five-eighth is the biggest concern, with a single injury potentially placing them on the back foot. In addition, Springbok tighthead prop Frans Malherbe is unlikely to be fit before round four, while experienced loose forward Schalk Burger will miss the first few rounds due to commitments in Japan.

STORMERS SQUAD:Forwards: Ruan Botha, Schalk Burger, Manuel Carizza, Rynhardt Elstadt, Eben Etzebeth, Gerbrandt Grobler, Oli Kebble, Steven Kitshoff, Jean Kleyn, Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi, Wilco Louw, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Scarra Ntubeni, Michael Rhodes, Duane Vermeulen (captain).

Backs: Demetri Catrakilis, Nizaam Carr, Kurt Coleman, Damian de Allende, Juan de Jongh, Johnny Kotze, Robert du Preez, Nic Groom, Pat Howard, Cheslin Kolbe, Dillyn Leyds, Godlen Masimla, Willy Mbaka, Louis Schreuder, Jaco Taute, EW Viljoen, Kobus van Wyk.

L AST YEAR: 11TH PLACE. For the second year running, the Stormers were perhaps the biggest under-achievers. There has been much soul-searching in the

Western Province Rugby Union, who suffered big financial losses from the negative impact on gate receipts. A number of backroom appointments were consequently made to support long-serving coach Allister Coetzee.

WEBSITE www.thestormers.com

CONTACT Newlands Terrace 8 Boundary Road

Newlands, 7700 Cape Town, South Africa

PHONE +27 21 659 4600

LUCK OF THE DRAW: Having been partly undone by the combination of a horrid draw and an unprecedented injury crisis last year, Coetzee could breathe a sigh of relief when this year’s fixtures list was revealed. The Stormers play five matches in South Africa before smooth sailing with a bye prior to touring. Another bye before the final four league games is also well-timed.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: While feeder union Western Province are the Currie Cup champions, the Stormers’ depth is perhaps a little too thin for that to translate to immediate success in Super Rugby.

Jean de Villiers, who would have captained the side, is out having suffered a major knee injury. This means that No.8 Duane Vermeulen will lead the side, with centre Juan de Jongh as his deputy.

“Jean isn’t just a loss from a captaincy perspective, but he’s also an exceptional player and character,” Coetzee said.

“We’ll fill the void from within our ranks rather than shop around. There are experienced midfield players in Juan de Jongh, Damian de Allende and Jaco Taute. Pat Howard and Kobus van Wyk are other options, while we have unearthed a good centre at Under-21 level in Johnny Kotze.”

A departure from the Stormers’ over-reliance on defence is on the cards following the appointment of Gert Smal as Director of Rugby. As in the Currie Cup,

CHANCE TO SHINE: Damian de Allende will have the opportunity to

establish himself at second five-eighth in the absence

of Jean de Villiers.


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The luck of the draw is with the Sharks and astute new head coach Gary Gold will lead this South African powerhouse well. Expect to see them in the Super Rugby play-offs.

STRONG SHARKS WILL SHINEWHO’S NEW: The Sharks’ most significant signing is England international lock Mouritz Botha, which offsets the loss of Anton Bresler. Forwards: JC Astle, Mouritz Botha, Renaldo Bothma, Wiehan Hay. Backs: Jack Wilson.

WHO’S THROUGH: The Sharks will miss bruising loose forward Jean Deysel, but the signing of the unheralded Renaldo Bothma may prove astute business after he shone for the Pumas in the Currie Cup. Forwards: Jacques Botes, Anton Bresler, Keegan Daniel, Jean Deysel. Backs: Charl McLeod.

ALL BLACK SLAYER: Patrick Lambie will be crucial in the Sharks’ bid to reach the next level.

WEBSITE www.sharksrugby.co.za

CONTACT PO Box 307 Durban 4000

PHONE +27 31 308 8400

L AST YEAR: THIRD PLACE. The Sharks were undone by a weak finish to the league phase of the competition, which led to them bowing out with a whimper in an

away semi-final against the Crusaders in Christchurch. Coach Jake White’s unfortunate calculated risk of fielding a weakened line-up in the penultimate league match against the Cheetahs was perhaps pivotal in the unravelling.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: As draws go, new head coach Gary Gold could hardly have asked for better. The Sharks have 10 matches in South Africa before embarking on tour, which gives them ample opportunity to build up a head of steam. The only downer is that they have to wait until round 11 for their first bye.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Gold has signed a three-year contract, which will hopefully bring much-needed stability after White’s short reign. Brendan Venter, who won the Currie Cup during a short stint as the Sharks’ Director of Rugby in 2013, will add a lot of value as a technical advisor. He has already played a big role in pre-season preparations while Gold completes his stint as coach of the Kobe Kobelco Steelers in Japan.

Gold will benefit from the strongest squad in South Africa and certainly one of the best in the competition. It’s all about bringing the best out of them and Gold’s man-management and pleasant personality may prove the catalyst.

But in a World Cup year, in particular, selection is a big challenge. Gold realises he can’t play the likes of Tendai Mtawarira, Patrick Lambie, Frans Steyn, Willem Alberts, Marcell Coetzee, JP Pietersen, and the Du Plessis brothers, Jannie and Bismarck, all the way through. That lengthy list of senior ’Boks is nevertheless an indication of the Sharks’ strength in depth.

“We have a very good spine to the squad. We now have to create the environment in which the players can express themselves,” Gold said.

Gold is aiming to push the corners of the envelope with regards to attacking play, which will be a radical departure from White’s conservative approach. “I don’t think you can win the competition with defence and kicking alone. You have to be lethal with the ball in hand as well. The best attacking teams win the tournament. We have the personnel to play good attacking rugby,” he said.

“I’m not sure there has, for a while now, been a South African team that has embraced attacking rugby. We’re prepared to go with it.” Gold and Venter are tacticians first, so expect that approach to be rooted in common sense.

LIKELY FINISH: With strength in depth and a good draw, the Sharks are worth a punt. The joker in the pack, of course, is that it’s World Cup year and players have bigger issues occupying their minds. If the big-name players are burdened with too much work, their hearts and minds may be lost. But Gold is astute enough to know that and also realises the importance of grooming young players for the future, as Springboks are likely to move on after the World Cup.

SHARKS SQUAD:Forwards: Lourens Adriaanse, Willem Alberts, JC Astle, Mouritz Botha, Renaldo Bothma, Dale Chadwick, Marcell Coetzee, Kyle Cooper, Bismarck du Plessis (captain), Jannie du Plessis, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Thomas du Toit, Wiehan Hay, Ryan Kankowski, Stephan Lewies, Tendai Mtawarira, Tera Mtembu, Etienne Oosthuizen.

Backs: Tonderai Chavhanga, Conrad Hoffmann, Paul Jordaan, Patrick Lambie, SP Marais, Lwazi Mvovo, Odwa Ndungane, JP Pietersen, Cobus Reinach, Sibusiso Sithole, Frans Steyn, Tim Swiel, Heimar Williams, Jack Wilson, Fred Zeilinga.


Super RUGBY 2015 page 42 oliverlee.co.nz

KNOW YOUR SUPER RUGBY FACTS & FIGURES

TOUCHDOWN KING: All Black wing

Doug Howlett holds the record for most tries with 59 touchdowns — for the

Blues (55), Highlanders (3) and Hurricanes (1) in a

decade-long career.

MOST FINALS: Former All Black

and Crusaders skipper Reuben Thorne played

in the most finals (9).

Keven Mealamu, Richie McCaw, Victor Matfield, Tony Woodcock and Dan Carter are the only current players with more than 100 Super Rugby caps and 100 internationals.

The first TV deal between SANZAR and News Corporation cost Rupert Murdoch’s group US$555million.

All Black wing Doug Howlett holds the record for most tries with 59 touchdowns for the Blues (55), Highlanders (3) and Hurricanes (1) in a decade-long career.

Wylie Human played for the most franchises (5) while Pita Alatini played for each NZ franchise except the Blues.

Robbie Deans is the most successful coach with five titles at the Crusaders.

When the Bulls beat the Reds 92–3 in 2007 it was the largest winning margin.

The Lions have the worst losing sequence with 15 defeats in a row in 2010–11.

The biggest crowd is claimed by the Waratahs when 61,823 attended last year’s epic final with the Crusaders.

Andre Watson from South Africa refereed five finals — the most by any official.

Former All Black and Crusaders skipper Reuben Thorne played in the most finals (9).

Referee Steve Walsh has controlled the most games (108).

Morne Steyn holds the record with 25 dropped goals.

Eleven players have scored four tries in a game — Joeli Vidiri, Doug Howlett, Mils Muliaina, Caleb Ralph, Sean Maitland and Asaeli Tikoirotuma are in that group.

Brumbies and Wallaby loose forward Owen Finegan scored the most tries by a forward with 30 during his career from 1996–2005.

Eight players have scored a try and kicked a conversion, penalty and dropped goal in the same match — Carlos Spencer, Andrew Mehrtens, Glen Jackson, Andre Pretorius, Morne Steyn, Johan Goosen, Kurtley Beale, Quade Cooper.

Sharks fullback Gavin Lawless holds the record for the fastest to 100 points in a season with his four game blitz in 1997.

Referees have been replaced seven times during games because of injury with Australia’s Scott Young suffering the fate twice in 2004 and 2005.

Dan Carter has the most points with 1,579.

T E S T Y O U R K N O W L E D G E

By WYNNE GRAYHow well do you know your players, teams, scores and scorers from throughout the history of Super Rugby? Here is your chance to show-off to your mates.

Alama Ieremia scored the first try in Super Rugby after only two minutes when the Hurricanes hosted the Blues at Palmerston North in 1996.

Frans Ludeke has coached the most games with 132 spread between the Cats and his current work with the Bulls.

Each original NZ franchise from 1996 has at least one player or staff member officially connected to this year’s competition.

James O’Connor is the youngest to play Super Rugby at 17 years and 288 days.

Brad Thorn is the senior statesman taking the field last year for the Highlanders at 39 years and 67 days.

Former All Black utility Caleb Ralph played the most consecutive games (104).

All Black hooker Keven Mealamu and retired Wallaby Nathan Sharpe share the record for most games at 162.

GRANT LUDEMANN // OTAGO

JIM HORE // CENTRAL OTAGO

KEVIN HOOPER // GISBORNE

GRAHAM COGHLAN // MANGATAWHIRI

CLINT GRAHAM // HAWKES BAY

JOHN BENEFIELD // CANTERBURY

JAMIE ANDERSON // MANAWATU

RAY MONK // HELENSVILLE

ROSS RILEY // NELSON

CHRIS LEWIS // WAIKATO

ROB BLACKWELL // MANGAOTEA

ALI MCKAY // WAIPU

TONY PLUNKET // CANTERBURY BILL BELL // ASHBURTON

JIM COOPER // WINTONBEVAN COLLIE // SOUTHLAND

DAVID GIDDINGS // CANTERBURY

JOHN JACKSON // PAHIATUA

DAVE RITCHIE // KARAKA

DEAN BOROS // TE KUITI

GUY LENNOX // WAVERLEY

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6.5M

6.5M

6.5M

2012

DAIRY

2012

4.4M

2007

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

3.7M

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All match times are British Standard Time (BST) except for those played on or after October 25 which are GMT. All times are correct at time of going to press but are subject to change. For up-to-date information on the Rugby World Cup 2015 visit www.rugbyworldcup.com

RWC 2015 MATCH SCHEDULEPOOL AAUSTRALIA

ENGLAND

WALES

FIJI

URUGUAY

POOL BSOUTH AFRICA

SAMOA

SCOTLAND

JAPAN

USA

POOL CNEW ZEALAND

ARGENTINA

TONGA

GEORGIA

NAMIBIA

POOL DFRANCE

IRELAND

ITALY

CANADA

ROMANIA

FRI, SEPT 18, 20:00 Twickenham, LondonENGLAND v FIJI

SUN, SEPT 20, 14:30 CardiffWALES v URUGUAY

WED, SEPT 23, 16:45 CardiffAUSTRALIA v FIJI

SAT, SEPT 26, 20:00 Twickenham, LondonENGLAND v WALES

SUN, SEPT 27, 12:00 Villa Park, Birmingham AUSTRALIA v URUGUAY

THU, OCT 1, 16:45 Cardiff WALES v FIJI

SAT, OCT 3, 20:00 Twickenham, LondonENGLAND v AUSTRALIA

TUE, OCT 6, 20:00 Milton KeynesFIJI v URUGUAY

SAT, OCT 10, 16:45 Twickenham, LondonAUSTRALIA v WALES

SAT, OCT 10, 20:00 Manchester City StadiumENGLAND v URUGUAY

SAT, SEPT 19, 16:45 Brighton SOUTH AFRICA v JAPAN

SUN, SEPT 20, 12:00 BrightonSAMOA v USA

WED, SEPT 23, 14:30 GloucesterSCOTLAND v JAPAN

SAT, SEPT 26, 16:45 Villa Park, BirminghamSOUTH AFRICA v SAMOA

SUN, SEPT 27, 14:30 Elland Road, Leeds SCOTLAND v USA

SAT, OCT 3, 14:30 Milton Keynes SAMOA v JAPAN

SAT, OCT 3, 16:45 St James’ Park, NewcastleSOUTH AFRICA v SCOTLAND

WED, OCT 7, 16:45 Olympic Stadium, LondonSOUTH AFRICA v USA

SAT, OCT 10, 14:30 St James’ Park, NewcastleSAMOA v SCOTLAND

SUN, OCT 11, 20:00 GloucesterUSA v JAPAN

SAT, SEPT 19, 12:00 GloucesterTONGA v GEORGIA

SUN, SEPT 20, 16:45 Wembley StadiumNEW ZEALAND v ARGENTINA

THU, SEPT 24, 20:00 Olympic StadiumNEW ZEALAND v NAMIBIA

FRI, SEPT 25, 16:45 GloucesterARGENTINA v GEORGIA

TUE, SEPT 29, 16:45 Sandy Park, Exeter TONGA v NAMIBIA

FRI, OCT 2, 20:00 Cardiff NEW ZEALAND v GEORGIA

SUN, OCT 4, 14:30 Leicester City StadiumARGENTINA v TONGA

WED, OCT 7, 20:00 Sandy Park, ExeterNAMIBIA v GEORGIA

FRI, OCT 9, 20:00 St James’ Park, NewcastleNEW ZEALAND v TONGA

SUN, OCT 11, 12:00 Leicester City StadiumARGENTINA v NAMIBIA

SAT, SEPT 19, 14:30 CardiffIRELAND v CANADA

SAT, SEPT 19, 20:00 TwickenhamFRANCE v ITALY

WED, SEPT 23, 20:00 Olympic StadiumFRANCE v ROMANIA

SAT, SEPT 26, 14:30 Elland Road, LeedsITALY v CANADA

SUN, SEPT 27, 16:45 Wembley Stadium IRELAND v ROMANIA

THU, OCT 1, 20:00 Milton Keynes FRANCE v CANADA

SUN, OCT 4, 16:45 Olympic Stadium, LondonIRELAND v ITALY

TUE, OCT 6, 16:45 Leicester City StadiumCANADA v ROMANIA

SUN, OCT 11, 14:30 Sandy Park, ExeterITALY v ROMANIA

SUN, OCT 11, 16:45 CardiffFRANCE v IRELAND

QUARTER FINAL 1SAT, OCT 17, 16:00 Twickenham, LondonWINNER POOL B v RUNNER-UP POOL A

QUARTER FINAL 2SAT, OCT 17, 20:00 CardiffWINNER POOL C v RUNNER-UP POOL D

QUARTER FINAL 3SUN, OCT 18, 13:00 CardiffWINNER POOL D v RUNNER-UP POOL C

SEMI-FINAL 1SAT, OCT 24, 16:00 Twickenham, LondonWINNER QUARTER-FINAL 1 v WINNER QUARTER-FINAL 2

SEMI-FINAL 2SUN, OCT 25, 16:00 Twickenham, LondonWINNER QUARTER-FINAL 3 v WINNER QUARTER-FINAL 4

QUARTER FINAL 4SUN, OCT 18, 16:00 Twickenham, LondonWINNER POOL A v RUNNER-UP POOL B

BRONZE FINALFRI, OCT 30, 20:00 Olympic Stadium, LondonRUNNER-UP SEMI-FINAL 1 v RUNNER-UP SEMI-FINAL 2

FINALSAT, OCT 31, 16:00 Twickenham, LondonWINNER SEMI-FINAL 1 v WINNER SEMI-FINAL 2

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Super Rugby 2015

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