Updated for 2016:
The #FantsBants leagues get bigger and more competitive every year. Here's hoping that this year is no different.
Following Super Rugby will not only entertain you, and get you excited for the World Cup; it will also give you a chance to build your knowledge about some of the best and upcoming players in the World.
Super Rugby Fantasy is an easy way to maintain your interest.
This year, the site has slightly changed. It takes a while to get used to, but overall it's improved. Here are the new updated points systems:
To join in simply, log onto the site at this link, and then you will need to join the group here. Please let me know on twitter (@BHHooker) that you've joined, so I can keep track and make sure you are participating in the "bants". Yeah I hate myself for saying that too.
Humourous #fantsbants participants may get a follow. #Blackmail
The code is HRNJ5TMZ
Here's the 2014 "First Timer's Guide To Fantasy Super Rugby"
Tired of a boring Irish Times fantasy rugby that only rewards tries and man of the match performances? Are you already too far ahead or behind your competitors and seeking a new challenge? Super Rugby is starting soon, and the fantasy competition provided by foxsports.com.au is one of the best I've ever seen. Thinking of having a go? Here are some tips for the first time fantasy rugby player.
Look at the Rules first
(Provided below) Each fantasy competition is different, some reward points for tries and wins, others go into more detail. This is one of those competition. You wouldn't pick a world XV in a fantasy team geared towards tries, just like you don't pick a fantasy team solely to get tries for this fantasy.
Work Rate is key
Players who work hard, who make lots of tackles and lots of runs, the points add up quickly and are worthy additions to your team. Northern Hemisphere equivalents could be Courtney Lawes, Dan Lydiate or Theirry Dusautoir, players who work hard but never score tries. These players would consistently bring points.
Avoid Centres and Scrumhalves
Centres and Scrumhalves are traditionally the lowest scoring positions in the competition. Don't waste valuable budget money on getting expensive ones. Best served elsewhere
Players who play out of position
Players like Steven Luatua two years ago, who was down as a lock, but played as a blindside flanker, earned huge points as a second row. There is usually one player who plays several positions, and different positions generally give more points.
Pick Players who actually play
Crucial. The biggest problem for team owners is managing the schedule. Not every team plays every week. Plus the comp is long; at 16 weeks plus finals, players will be rotated in and out. You have to make sure that you have 15 guys earning you points every single week. Look ahead at the fixture list and try to avoid obvious conflicts early.
Also beware of picking the big stars, especially in New Zealand. Do you really want to pick Richie McCaw or Kieran Read when they’re likely to be put in cotton wool at the slightest hint of injury? Instead that money might be better spent on someone like Michael Hooper, who will play 80 minutes nearly all season long. Similarly, I’d be pretty wary about picking either Bernard Foley or Kurtley Beale until you get some sense of who’s going to be starting; you’d have to doubt that either of them will be playing a full match every week just at the moment.
Also beware of picking the big stars, especially in New Zealand. Do you really want to pick Richie McCaw or Kieran Read when they’re likely to be put in cotton wool at the slightest hint of injury? Instead that money might be better spent on someone like Michael Hooper, who will play 80 minutes nearly all season long. Similarly, I’d be pretty wary about picking either Bernard Foley or Kurtley Beale until you get some sense of who’s going to be starting; you’d have to doubt that either of them will be playing a full match every week just at the moment.
Don't avoid weak teams
This competition is ultra competitive, that just because a team is miles down the table doesn't mean they don't have fantasy gems. Ben Smith was a banker last season for the underperforming Highlanders, while Ged Robinson gained huge points playing for the Rebels. (Robinson has since left the Rebels).
Value over Replacement
While Israel Folau is nearly guaranteed to get you mega points, it'll definitely cost you mega bucks. It might be worth going for someone less expensive who could still rake in the points. Some positions have more points depth than others. It's all about what works for you.
