Fantasy Super Rugby Review Round 6

Chiefs 19-7 Highlanders

The Highlanders woes continue. It was a much improved performance from them, with Brad Thorn especially demonstrating that age is just a number.

However, in Sam Cane, the Chiefs have someone who turns the ball over for fun.

Kade Poki was the one player from this match to make the dream team, continuing on from an impressive personal start to the season. Teaches me to leave him on the bench.

Crusaders 55-20 Southern Kings

The Crusaders are back. Dan the man is back. This was irresistible from the boys from Canterbury. The biggest compliment I can give them is that the Kings didn't look bad in this game yet still lost by 35 points. The Whitelock family bagged 4 tries, unfortunately for me none went to Sam, who was an incoming transfer to the Ball Handling Hookers XV.

Crusaders will be up against it on their tour with both Dan Carter and Kieran Read missing. It will be interesting to see if this derails them

Read, George Whitelock and Willi Heinz made the dream team from game.

Reds 23- 18 Bulls

Speaking of those back in their mojo, Will Genia is a magician. He demonstrated why he is the best 9 in the world by rejuvenating a struggling Reds team and Cooper looks a different player outside him. There was a huge noticeable dropoff in play when Genia came off. He could be the difference this summer when the Lions come to visit.

Cooper and Jono Lance, despite a debatable yellow card, are the two players from this game to make the dream team.

Western Force 10- 19 Cheetahs

The Cheetahs completed a very impressive tour with their 3rd win of 4. They made hard work of it before Willie Le Roux touched down to make the game safe as the Force searched for a win in their new home.

Sidenote; Why do the Force, who are a new team, feel the need to move already? Lack of planning it seems when they became a new team only a few years ago?

Cheetah's lock Ludick de Jager was good enough to make the dream team, but not good enough to make my starting XV.

Sharks 64- 7 Rebels

The Rebels woes continue. It wasn't good enough that they lose by a record score, but Kurtley Beale has to act like a fool and start attacking teammates. There seems to be a problem with the culture in Melbourne.

Sharks players own the dream team with Tendai Mtwarira, Wiehann Herbst, Kyle Cooper, Keegan Daniel, Meyer Bosman and Louis Ludik dominating the dream team.

Stormers 35- 22 Brumbies

There are now no unbeaten teams in this years competition. Stormers put in a great performance to beat the Brumbies on Saturday despite George Smith showing he's still got it.

Andries Bekker redeems some of my ridiculous bench policies and makes it as the highest scoring 2nd row of this round.

Waratahs 30 -27 Blues

Waratahs put in an impressive second half performance by coming from behind to beat an impressive Blues. The Blues have already shown huge improvement from last year with some future All Blacks impressing. None more so than Charles Piatau who bagged himself a try.

Drew Mitchell responded to being dropped the week before brilliantly by scoring a wonderful try and making the dream team as the highest scoring outside back of the week.

SuperIrish

Peter Corley had the better of this week's SuperIrish with 350 points. This brings Peter above Murray Kinsella and knocking on the door of the top 4. That gap is closing each week, and soon it seems it will be a top 7. Although bottom two have been making up the ground in recent weeks.

Even less separates 1st from 4th this week, with only 30 points the difference. To put it into context, 30 points from any player in any position other than second row wouldn't have been enough to make the dream team this week. That's how small a gap it is.

Peter Corley also topped the Twittersphere with the FoxSports commentators. The Aussie's still occupy positions 1-4, but the Irish are catching up everywhere. All to play for still in all competitions.

Cillian Hogan is the man to catch.

The race is heating up, and a head to head league will be starting soon, tell all your friends. Post about it coming in the next few days.

Update on Garbhan Hogan after last week's injury. He posted this minging picture of his ankle.

Back in hospital today 'No more drugs for you Mr Hogan' then they show me my new ankle. #DoesThisSmell #IWantMorphine twitter.com/GarbhanHogan/s…
— Garbhan Hogan (@GarbhanHogan) March 25, 2013 

Lions watch: End of 6 Nations

Now is the time of year where a lot of people's Lions XV and squads start coming out. I'm actually surprised with the amount of how different some squads are to my views, so here's mine.

I'm going to say who I think are certain tourists, and then come up with logical players to tour outside of that. In my view, playing styles and combinations need to be considered as well as form and quality in picking a touring squad. Not everyone is going to agree with my choices, so as long as I have a logical conclusion, I'm happy.

First, here is the squad I would have picked without any form or injuries back in January. This isn't logical, just based solely on preference, and will give you an idea of my thinking.

15 Kearney, Halfpenny, Foden
Wingers; Bowe, Maitland, North, Fitzgerald
Centres; O'Driscoll, Davies, Roberts, D'Arcy
10s; Sexton, Priestland, Biggar
9; Phillips, Care, Laidlaw
1. Healy, Jenkins, Grant
2, Best, Strauss, Ford
3, Cole, Jones, Murray
2nd Row; O'Connell, AW Jones, Gray, Lawes
6, Ferris, Lydiate, O'Brien
7, Warburton, Tipuric,
8. Heaslip, Faletau

Certain to tour;
15. Halfpenny
14. Cuthbert
12. Roberts
11. North
10. Farrell
9. Phillips
8. Faletau
7. Warburton, Tipuric, Robshaw
5. Alun Wyn Jones
3. Jones, Cole
2. Best, Hibbard.
1. Healy, Jenkins

Fullback.

With Halfpenny one of the few nailed on for a text XV, there are 2 other spots in the touring squad. There were 5 players in contention before the start of the 6 nations; Kearney, Foden, Goode, Brown and Hogg.

Hogg had a fantastic 6 nations and his form was good enough for him to warrant a call up. Kearney has the experience of the 2009 tour, and was talked about for a test definite 12 months ago. His 6 nations wasn't the best, but was it bad enough for him to miss out on the tour altogether. Goode was solid this 6 nations without being spectular. His ability to play at 10 or 12 will help him, but I think he is fighting a losing battle. Brown had a good 6 nations too, but doesn't dominate at international level like he does with Quins. Perhaps a bit too soon for him.

Kearney will undoubtedly be in better form in 3 months time, and Australia are likely to kick more ball to him than any of the teams in the 6 nations did. His experience and assuredness under the high ball should let him retain a tour spot.

Wingers

With North and Cuthbert taking up two spots, I have 2 spots left. Cuthbert's place is there if he recovers from a hamstring injury in time. Other injured players who are returning soon include Bowe and Zebo who were both namechecked by Gatland as injured players in contention. Zebo provides something different with some magic and has the ability to produce something out of nothing which would be a good weapon to have on tour. His enthuasism and personality would be a delight on tour too, so if he comes back from injury then he is in with a big chance. Likewise, Bowe is world class, was in great form before his injury and has the experience. If he can get 2 or 3 games under his belt between now and April 30th, he should also be on the plane. His injury was more serious though, so there is more doubt about him.

Chris Ashton played his way out of contention with a poor performance in the 6 nations. Craig Gilroy, Tim Visser and Sean Maitland are the only other wingers who played in the 6 nations that are in contention. Gilroy also proves a different option, Maitland has Southern Hemisphere experience and is an incredibly intelligent player. Visser is a natural finisher. Wing is one of the tightest positions. I'd have Zebo if he proves his fitness, as I think he is likely to do, and Bowe if he does, but I'm not sure he will.

In terms of balance between the wings, if Zebo doesn't make it, I'd put Gilroy as his replacement, but if Bowe fails to make it, Maitland or Visser would be his replacement, to maximise the different styles and options available to Gatland.

One possible bolter I'm surprised hasn't been mentioned is Eli Walker, who was outstanding in the Heineken Cup. His pace, and ability to dance away from defenders should have been rewarded with some gametime in the 6 Nations, and another outstanding display could force him in the reckoning as an alternative to Zebo or Gilroy.

Outside Centres

The only reason this man is not a certainty is the slightly below par performance in the last 6 Nations, but for me, not only does O'Driscoll travel, he travels as captain. I would want someone who has been on a Lion's tour before, who is a leader and who already has the respect of the other players in other nations. I believe experience on tour is important, therefore O'Driscoll is the only option. Warburton, Alun Wyn Jones and Robshaw will be valuable on field leaders too.

I would bring two outside centres, and not only did Jonathan Davies rule himself out with some shocking early displays, but Tuilagi almost definitely nailed a spot in the side, so that would be my two on tour.

Stuart Hogg is able to cover here if needed.

Inside Centres

I very nearly didn't have Roberts in here after a lacklustre start. He came good in the end, and produced a monstrous performance against England.

Besides him there aren't too many quality inside centres about. Brad Barritt is probably favourite, but to go along with my original criteria of options, I think Luke Marshall or Billy Twelvetrees as second five-eighths are realistic bolters. Twelvetrees would probably be ahead due to a little bit more experience, but all depends on the next few weeks, with this position being the most open as April 30th approaches.

Out Halves

Owen Farrell performed beyond his years, and showed an admirable calm. His goakicking was very impressive, and with a lack of alternatives, will get on the plane. It will at least pacify the English supporters. His ability to cover centre will provide very useful also.

For me, even now, provided he's nearly back from injury, it's Jonny Sexton's place on the test team to lose.

My preference is for 3 out-halves to go. But there isn't much beyond those two players. Wilkinson will not be considered, and rightly so.

If Ian Madigan plays like he did last weekend for the next few weeks he is in with a bolter possibility.

 Other non-contenders are Freddie Burns, Toby Flood, Duncan Weir, Paddy Jackson, Ruaridh Jackson.

Leaving just Dan Biggar or Rhys Priestland. Preistland is a favourite of Gatty, but Priestland isn't expected to return to training until June which would represent a stupid gamble.

Scrum Halves

Phillips obviously delighted he's got my pick

Mike Phillips finally got in the groove in the 6 Nations with a great performance against England. He is another example of a move to France gone badly.

He will definitely be on the plane, as Bayonne should be out of the Top14 at this stage. But he will need time to get properly back up to speed.

There will be 2 other 9's in the squad between Danny Care, Conor Murray, Greig Laidlaw and Ben Youngs.

I thought Laidlaw had a great tournament, and his ability to cover ten should solve some problems and get him on the plane.

I can't see both Ben Youngs and Danny Care on the tour, and Gatland would go for the incumbent in the 9 jersey, especially as Care had two howlers against Wales and Italy.

Conor Murray is at a huge disadvantage, as despite one of his best campaigns, he is more of a Mike Phillips lite at this stage, and it wouldn't make much sense to bring both and reduce the options available to you.

Loosehead Prop

Cian Healy is a certain tourist for me. And I had Gethin Jenkins down as a certain tourist after his 6 Nations finish, but with Gatland's comments during the week about France-based players I'm not so sure.

I think that'll probably rule Andrew Sheridan out and mean the Jenkins will be free, but it's far from certain.

Which is unfortunate as I think Sheridan would be useful in Australia. With the new prop rules, I think there will be 9 front row players travelling, meaning that there is space for one more loosehead prop.

Tom Court and Dave Kilcoyne did not step up in Healy's brief absence and are ruled out. Alex Corbisiero is injured and not good enough to be an automatic pick. He might have made it if it weren't for the injury.

Mako Vunipola impressed a little, but like with the scrum-halves, Gatland won't pick back up players over an incumbent, and I don't think Joe Marler impressed as much as he needed to.

Which leaves Ryan Grant. For me, Grant had a good tournament, and was even better in November, where he was the only Scottish player to come out with his reputation enhanced. He would be a great choice for 3rd choice loosehead prop.

Hooker

First off, I would love if Strauss toured. I think his work at the breakdown would be priceless down there, and his ball-carrying would be vital. He is injured, and will be back at the start of April. He has a chance, but I'm going to assume that he won't make it.

Rory Best is the next best in terms of work at the breakdown, and the rest of Best's game means that for me, he is head and shoulders above the rest of the competition, and must travel.

There was a lot of talk about Richard Hibbard going into the 6 Nations, but he didn't deliver until the end. And with a lack of alternatives, he's probably guaranteed a spot too.

Which leaves one spot. Which is almost definitely going to Tom Youngs. I must admit, I'm not sure what the fuss is about Youngs. He's done ok, but he's not ripping trees out of the ground. He'll be a good player in a year or two, but not as good as the English are making him out to be.

Ross Ford did ok this 6 Nations and I think should be in with a shout. But probably not.

Tighthead Prop

Two of the most certain names on the tour are Adam Jones and Dan Cole. Both are among the best in the world in this position.

Mike Ross, Euan Murray and Geoff Cross are the other contenders. There is no match on a Sunday for the Lions, so that won't count against Murray this time, and I think he's coming into some good form and is the best of these 3.

Second Row.

Paul O'Connell made his return to Munster at the weekend, scoring a try and being excellent and lasting 80 minutes. I would wrap him in cotton wool from here until the Lions as he is a text starter.

O'Connell has that persona that lifts everyone around him, demands 110% from everyone and is respected. He is a leader and a serious contender for captain.

Alun Wyn Jones is another back from injury and was peerless against England. He also travels and probably starts for me.

Nathan Hines might be put off by Gatland's comments, but he's left his club in the Top 14 before to play for the Lions, and this is against his home country so he might.

Jim Hamilton tore up lineouts in the 6 Nations, and completely outshone his more vaunted partner Richie Gray, who was terrible.

Geoff Parling was the better of an impressive English 2nd row combination, and Donnacha Ryan is in with a shout as he can cover 6, but I'd have O'Connell, Jones, Parling, Hamilton and Hines. Hines can cover 6, but with his availability in question then Ryan gets in.

Openside Flanker

I'll do openside flanker first, as it'll be easier with selection.

Not really much to say here. It'll have to be a genuine openside.

Justin Tipuric and Sam Warburton. Both awesome in the last game, with Tipuric especially showing great form for a while now. Both travel as the 2 7's. The only genuine openside's available, and both are in form. Both to travel. Might see point play together at some point.

Blindside Flanker

Chris Robshaw was outstanding in the 6 Nations, and probably deserves to go as a blindside, with O'Brien next in line. Kelly Brown will be unlucky and probably miss out. Dan Lydiate is returning from injury and is one of the few who could just walk into the tour if he proves his fitness.

Tom Wood is unlucky, but he is behind each player mentioned.






No 8

Toby Faletau was the 3rd best 8 on display in the 6 Nations. Unfortunately the first 2 were Louis Picamoles and Sergio Parisse.

Jamie Heaslip had a poor tournament, and needs a strong return with Leinster to get back in the reckoning. His reputation means he'll be there or thereabouts.

Johnnie Beattie did well, but he could be involved in the Top 14 for Montpeiller, thus not helping his chances.

Ben Morgan is another contender, but he didn't play much through injury and hasn't impressed much.

One left wing bolter would be Gareth Delve, who is playing with Melbourne Rebels, would know a lot about the Australians and would be used to the pitches and style of play. The English would also be calling for Billy Vunipola as a bolter, but it would be unlikely.

My Squad (37) ;

Halfpenny, Kearney, Hogg
North, Cuthbert, Zebo, Maitland
O'Driscoll, Tuilagi
Roberts, Marshall
Sexton, Farrell, Biggar
Phillips, Laidlaw, Youngs
Healy, Jenkins, Grant
Best, Hibbard, Youngs
Jones, Cole, Murray
O'Connell, Jones, Hamilton, Parling, Hines
O'Brien, Robshaw
Warburton, Tipuric,
Faletau, Heaslip

Irish Rugby: Is there anyone left?

With a huge number of injuries sustained to the Irish team, where does that leave the Irish provinces with Heineken Cup and Amlin Challenge Cup games to come in the near future.

Munster; likely XV
1. Kilcoyne.
2. Sherry
3. Botha
4. O'Callaghan
5. Ryan
6. Stander
7. O'Donnell
8. O'Mahony
9. Murray
10. Keatley
11. Murphy
12. Downey
13. Lualua
14. Howlett
15. O'Dea

Munster seem to be the least affected by the injuries that Ireland have sustained. In the pack, only Donnacha Ryan has a knock, but he should be back by the time Harlequins host them. I'm assuming Paul O'Connell and Simon Zebo won't be back in time. Keith Earls is the only long term casualty. I'm also assuming that Felix Jones is injured, or if he's not, he will be.

Ulster's remaining XV
1. Court
2. Best
3. Afoa
4. Muller
5. Tuohy
6. Henderson
7. Diack
8. Williams
9. Pienaar
10. Jackson
11. Trimble
12. Olding
13. Cave
14. Gilroy
15. Payne

Ulster have had a lot of injuries, and that was before the Irish casualties. Muller, Williams and Payne are back soon, but Henderson, Marshall, Bowe and Ferris are all out. They will take it easy with Marshall, and he'll probably be injured again by the time they travel to Saracens.

Leinster's remaining XV
1. Healy
2. Cronin
3. Ross
4. Cullen
5. Roux
6. McLaughlin
7. O'Brien.
8. Heaslip
9. Boss
10. Madigan
11. Nacewa
12. D'Arcy
13. O'Malley
14. Kearney
15. Kearney

Leinster are by far the hardest hit by the Irish injuries. Strauss was already injured beforehand, and he will not be back in time. Quinn Roux has started his recovery, and he is one player I am very excited to see. The back row haven't been affected and seem extremely strong with strong back up.

It's the backline where Leinster are decimated, with Reddan, Sexton, D'Arcy, O'Driscoll and Fitzgerald all either ruled out or in D'Arcy's case, in doubt.

Can the provinces still get results? With 3 away games against strong London opposition, all wouldn't have been guaranteed to win at full strength. I still think Ulster and Leinster should have enough about them to get the job done.

On to Dublin.

Super Rugby Teams Round 6

Round 6 BYE : Hurricanes

Friday 22nd March:

Waikato Chiefs vs Otago Highlanders 6.35

The big news coming from the Chiefs is the potential return of Richard Kahui from injury from the bench. He will be a big player for them in their last season, and his return is likely to give the squad a boost.

The Highlanders should be boosted by the return of All Black Ma'a Nonu, who will make his 2nd appearance for the franchise. The Highlanders will be hoping that Nonu's size advantage over the Chiefs midfield will help them get their season back on track.

Chiefs: 15 Gareth Anscombe, 14 Lelia Masaga, 13 Tim Nanai-Williams, 12 Andrew Horrell, 11 Asaeli Tikoirotuma, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Tawera Kerr-Barlow, 8 Nick Crosswell, 7 Sam Cane, 6 Liam Messam (c), 5 Brodie Retallick, 4 Michael Fitzgerald, 3 Ben Tameifuna, 2 Hika Elliot, 1 Pauliasi Manu.
Replacements: 16 Rhys Marshall, 17 Ben Afeaki, 18 Romana Graham/Fritz Lee, 19 Tanerau Latimer, 20 August Pulu, 21 Charlie Ngatai, 22 Richard Kahui/Patrick Osborne.

Highlanders: 15 Ben Smith, 14 Kade Poki, 13 Jason Emery, 12 Ma'a Nonu, 11 Hosea Gear, 10 Colin Slade, 9 Aaron Smith, 8 Elliot Dixon, 7 John Hardie, 6 Jarrad Hoeata, 5 Josh Bekhuis, 4 Brad Thorn (c), 3 Chris King, 2 Liam Coltman, 1 Tony Woodcock.
Replacements: 16 Jason Rutledge, 17 Bronson Murray, 18 Joe Wheeler, 19 Tim Boys, 20 Frae Wilson, 21 Lima Sopoaga, 22 Phil Burleigh.

Saturday 23rd March

Canterbury Crusaders vs Southern Kings 6.35

The big team news from the Crusaders is the return of troubled star Zac Guildford. It'll be interested to see how he does in the coming weeks in his return from alcohol problems.

The Kings have problems of their own as they name their 4th captain, while they are in trouble with SARU over the fielding off too many foreign players.

Crusaders: 15 Israel Dagg. 14 Tom Marshall, 13 Robbie Fruean, 12 Ryan Crotty, 11 Johnny McNicholl, 10 Dan Carter, 9 Willi Heinz, 8 Kieran Read (c), 7 Matt Todd, 6 George Whitelock, 5 Samuel Whitelock, 4 Luke Romano , 3 Owen Franks 2 Corey Flynn, 1 Wyatt Crockett.
Replacements: 16 Codie Taylor, 17 Joe Moody, 18 Dominic Bird, 19 Luke Whitelock, 20 Andy Ellis, 21 Tyler Bleyendaal, 22 Zac Guildford.

Southern Kings: 15 George Whitehead, 11 Marcello Sampson, 13 Ronnie Cooke, 12 Hadleigh Parkes, 14 Sergeal Petersen, 10 Demetri Catrakilis, 9 Shaun Venter, 8 Jacques Engelbrecht, 7 Wimpie van der Walt, 6 Cornell du Preez, 5 David Bulbring, 4 Daniel Adongo, 3 Kevin Buys, 2 Bandise Maku, 1 Schalk Ferreira (captain).
Replacements: 16 Edgar Marutlulle, 17 Jaco Engels, 18 Rynier Bernardo, 19 Devin Oosthuizen, 20 Nicolas Vergallo, 21 Waylon Murray, 22 Elric van Vuuren.

Queensland Reds vs Blue Bulls 8.40

Reds welcome back inspirational captain James Horwill, who will be a key figure in the coming weeks for Reds and the Wallabies. Genia is continuing his comeback too, and Digby Ioane is back after an disciplinary issue. 19 year old Chris Feauai-Sautia has the potential to excite on the other wing

For the Bulls, a number of playrs have been rested after last weeks hammering at the hands of the Crusaders. Morne Steyn, Juandre Kruger and Jacques Potgieter drop to the bench, with Francois Hougaard not fully recovered from a minor injury.

Reds: 15 Jono Lance, 14 Chris Feauai-Sautia, 13 Anthony Faingaa, 12 Ben Tapuai, 11 Digby Ioane, 10 Quade Cooper, 9 Will Genia, 8 Jake Schatz, 7 Jarrad Butler, 6 Eddie Quirk, 5 James Horwill (c), 4 Ed O'Donoghue, 3 James Slipper, 2 James Hanson, 1 Greg Holmes.
Replacements: 16 Saia Faingaa, 17 Albert Anae, 18 Rob Simmons, 19 Curtis Browning, 20 Nigel Ah Wong, 21 Nick Frisby, 22 Mike Harris.

Bulls: 15 Zane Kirchner, 14 Lionel Mapoe, 13 JJ Engelbrecht, 12 Francois Venter, 11 Bjorn Basson, 10 Louis Fouché, 9 Jano Vermaak, 8 Pierre Spies (c), 7 Dewald Potgieter, 6 Deon Stegmann, 5 Grant Hattingh, 4 Paul Willemse, 3 Werner Kruger, 2 Chiliboy Ralepelle, 1 Morné Mellet.
Replacements: 16 Willie Wepener, 17 Frik Kirsten, 18 Juandré Kruger, 19 Jacques Potgieter, 20 Ruan Snyman, 21 Morné Steyn, 22 Jan Serfontein.

Western Force vs Free State Cheetahs 10.45

Leinster eyes might have a bit more interest on developments in Perth over the showing of Willie Le Roux after he was linked with being the man to replace Isa Nacewa. Riaan Smit will have the task of taking over from injured Johan Goosen, who is out for the season.

Cheetahs: 15 Hennie Daniller, 14 Willie le Roux, 13 Johann Sadie, 12 Robert Ebersohn, 11 Raymond Rhule, 10 Riaan Smit, 9 Sarel Pretorius, 8 Philip van der Walt, 7 Pieter Labuschagne, 6 Heinrich Brussow, 5 Francois Uys, 4 Lodewyk de Jager, 3 Lourens Adriaanse, 2 Adriaan Strauss (c), 1 Trevor Nyakane.
Replacements: 16 Ryno Barnes, 17 Coenie Oosthuizen, 18 Ligtoring Landman, 19 Boom Prinsloo, 20 Piet van Zyl, 21 Burton Francis, 22 Ryno Benjamin.

Natal Sharks vs Melbourne Rebels 15.05

The news from the Sharks is the "dropping/ resting" of Frans Steyn for the visit of the Rebels.

Sharks: 15 Louis Ludik, 14 JP Pietersen, 13 Paul Jordaan, 12 Meyer Bosman, 11 Lwazi Mvovo, 10 Patrick Lambie, 9 Cobus Reinach, 8 Keegan Daniel (c), 7 Marcell Coetzee, 6 Jacques Botes, 5 Franco van der Merwe, 4 Pieter-Steph du Toit, 3 Wiehahn Herbst, 2 Kyle Cooper, 1 Tendai Mtawarira.
Replacements: 16 Craig Burden, 17 Jannie du Plessis, 18 Jandre Marais, 19 Ryan Kankowski, 20 Charl McLeod, 21 Francois Steyn, 22 Riaan Viljoen.

Rebels: 15 Angus Roberts, 14 Jason Woodward, 13 Mitch Inman, 12 Lachlan Mitchell, 11 Cooper Vuna, 10 James O'Connor, 9 Nick Phipps, 8 Gareth Delve (c), 7 Scott Fuglistaller, 6 Scott Higginbotham, 5 Luke Jones, 4 Hugh Pyle, 3 Laurie Weeks, 2 Ged Robinson, 1 Nic Henderson.
Replacements: 16 Shota Horie, 17 Paul Alo-Emile, 18 Cadeyrn Neville, 19 Jordy Reid, 20 Nic Stirzaker, 21 Rory Sidey, 22 Richard Kingi.


DSL Stormers vs ACT Brumbies 17:10

Joe Pietersen keeps his place after seeing off the challenge of Jaco Taute, and Elton Jantjies is also retained, and is beginning to show some form.

The Brumbies are aiming to keep their 100% record and are on course for their best ever start. Two changes to their line-up sees Prior in for Nic White, who is rested, and Palmer is getting some match time to let Alexander rest.

Stormers: 15 Joe Pietersen, 14 Gio Aplon, 13 Juan de Jongh, 12 Jean de Villiers (c), 11 Gerhard van den Heever, 10 Elton Jantjies, 9 Dewaldt Duvenage , 8 Duane Vermeulen, 7 Rynhardt Elstadt, 6 Siya Kolisi, 5 Andries Bekker, 4 De Kock Steenkamp, 3 Frans Malherbe, 2 Tiaan Liebenberg, 1 Steven Kitshoff.
Replacements: 16 Deon Fourie, 17 Pat Cilliers, 18 Don Armand, 19 Nizaam Carr, 20 Nic Groom, 21 Damian de Allende, Jaco Taute.

Brumbies: 15. Jesse Mogg, 14. Henry Speight, 13. Tevita Kuridrani, 12. Christian Lealiifano, 11. Joseph Tomane, 10. Matt Toomua, 9. Ian Prior, 8. Fotu Auelua, 7. George Smith, 6. Ben Mowen (capt), 5. Sam Carter, 4. Peter Kimlin, 3. Dan Palmer, 2. Stephen Moore, 1. Scott Sio.
Reserves: 16. Siliva Siliva, 17. Ben Alexander, 18. Scott Fardy, 19. Colby Faingaa, 20. Mark Swanepoel, 21. Robbie Coleman, 22. Clyde Rathbone
.

Sunday 24th March

NSW Waratahs vs Auckland Blues 5:05

Waratahs: 15 Israel Folau, 14 Peter Betham, 13 Adam Ashley-Cooper, 12 Rob Horne, 11 Drew Mitchell, 10 Bernard Foley, 9 Brendan McKibbin, 8 Pat McCutcheon, 7 Michael Hooper, 6 Dave Dennis (capt), 5 Kane Douglas, 4 Sitaleki Timani, 3 Paddy Ryan, 2 John Ulugia, 1 Benn Robinson.
Replacements: 16 Luke Holmes, 17 Sekope Kepu, 18 Mitchell Chapman, 19 Jed Holloway, 20 Matt Lucas, 21 Ben Volavola, 22 Tom Kingston.

Blues: 15 Charles Piutau, 14 Frank Halai, 13 Rene Ranger, 12 Francis Saili, 11 George Moala, 10 Chris Noakes, 9 Piri Weepu, 8 Peter Saili, 7 Luke Braid, 6 Steven Luatua, 5 Ali Williams (capt), 4 Culum Retallick, 3 Charlie Faumuina, 2 James Parsons, 1 Tom McCartney.
Replacements: 16 Quentin MacDonald, 17 Angus Ta'avao, 18 Anthony Boric, 19 Brendon O'Connor, 20 Jamison Gibson-Park, 21 Baden Kerr, 22 Jackson Willison.

Fantasy Super Rugby Review Round 5

It was not a good weekend of rugby. For me personally, all my teams lost, bets lost and a poor fantasy week.

Nevertheless, I was treated to some entertaining Super Rugby in Round 5.

The New Zealand conference is providing 5 of the most entertaining teams to watch, and the NZ derbies are a sight to behold. The 19-23 game between the Highlanders and the Hurricanes proved no different.

Hosea Gear has started the season strongly, along with his wing partner Kade Poki, but the Highlanders haven't won a game yet, and the rest of the team needs to shape up.

The Cheetahs upset the Waratahs in a one point game in Sydney 27-26 making it 2 wins from 3 on tour. However news that Johan Goosen is out for the season might derail their campaign again.

The Cheifs showed the rest of the competition how to break down the Kings, scoring 4 tries, with Lelia Masaga nabbing a hat-trick. The Kings for their part kept in touch and didn't disgrace themselves going down 35-24. However, the Kings are in trouble over the number of foreign players they used during that game.

The Crusaders finally turned it on for the visit of the Bulls, dismantling them and recording a 41-19. Dan Carter seems to be back, and Robbie Fruean's try midway through the first half proved the turning point in the game, and perhaps in their season.

The Reds were crushed by the Force, 19-12, despite the welcome return of Will Genia. The Reds were very poor, and Sias Ebersohn showed why he is considered one of the signings of the season.

And on to Fantasy.

Gear and Masaga were the highest scoring players in Round 5, with Alby Mathewson showing that scrumhalves can actually contribute to a decent points total. The Dream Team from round 5 has a lot of new faces, and seems to show the nature of how inconsistent some players are. 

Looking to the overall dream team, after a few weeks of play, the extra week that the Australian franchises have had aren't as prominent. 

Kade Poki has shown how impressive he has been in a struggling Highlanders team, Charles Piatau points total confirms how well his season has been, and the same can be said for Jesse Mogg.

James O'Connor and Ben Tapuai are streets ahead of other inside backs, with Sarel Pretorius, a try scoring scrum-half, coming to the fore at 9.

In the back row, tough tackling Pieter Labuschagne has been the highest scoring player, with turnover kings Liam Gill and Sam Cane just behind.

James Slipper and Ged Robinson keep their places through the huge amount of tackles and runs they go through in games.

In the "SuperIrish" league, the lead has changed hands for the third week in a row. 

Pre-tournament favourite Cillian Hogan and Poseidon's Belvedere topped this round 5 with 358, which was enough for him to take a narrow 20 point lead. Shrewd transfers have framed his team with 9 players contributing over 25 points, and most of those over 30.

Ronan Murphy produced his best round of the tournament, with 299 and this brings everyone over the 1,000 mark. Only 748 points separate first and last, and with a head to head league to be introduced in the next two weeks, there is all to play for.

There remains less than 40 points between 1st and 4th, which promises to excite for the rest of the competition, with Murray Kinsella, Simon Farrell and Peter Corley trying to catch up to the top 4.

Unfortunately, the twitter "celebs" have started running away with the competition, with Kafer, Cannon, Sharpey and Horan all ahead of the super Irish, and Kafer with a commanding lead.

The rest of the celebrities are there to be taken though, especially Phil Kearns, who is flirting with last place.

Things are hotting up, with serious wildcard decisions to be made, as it gets more and more inviting each week, with each transfer mistake and upsetting fixture list.

Planning is important from this point on.

Any new followers who have a team in the fantasy league should give me a buzz and we'll get you to join the league. As mentioned before, there will be at least one new head to head league starting in the next 2 weeks, so invite as many as possible.

Finally, a shout out to Garbhan Hogan, who snapped his ankle in much the same way as the French referee did. A haul of 336 probably won't cheer you up. Get well soon buddy.

My team of the 6 Nations

15. Stuart Hogg

Hogg and Halfpenny were in a league of their own in full back terms. Masi and Goode were both impressive,  but Hogg was outstanding.

14. Leigh Halfpenny

The only way I could give Hogg the full back slot was if Halfpenny was already in the team. Wingers weren't as good throughout the entire tournament. Zebo and Gilroy showed well for Ireland, but not enough to warrant selection here. Maitland performed intelligently without setting the world alight and was probably best of the rest.

13. Manu Tuilagi

There weren't many contenders here, but Tuilagi made a difference when he came into the English side, and thus gets the spot here.

12. Wesley Fofana

Solely for the try of the tournament and the fact that not many backs performed this year. Matt Scott is worth a mention, and I would have liked to see more of Twelvetrees.

11. Alex Cuthbert

This was a toss up between Cuthbert and George North, with Cuthbert sneaking it for me for his tries in the final game against England.

10. Owen Farrell

There really was no one else. He showed good maturity throughout and cemented a place on the Lions tour.

9. Greig Laidlaw

Showing how good he is. Youngs did well for England, and Murray showed some great form, but I think Laidlaw lead Scotland well, and directed the best bits of what they did.

1. Cian Healy

Gethin Jenkins eventually came into it and pushed Healy close. But the Scottish game showed how far Healy has come and how much he was missed.

2. Rory Best

Best had two nightmares with the lineout but was exemplary in open play, especially in the Welsh game where I thought he was man of the match. Not many other hookers performed, with Hibbard the next best.

3. Adam Jones

In a toss up between Cole and Jones, Jones won the battle today, and is the strongest scrummager and frontrunner for the test spot.

4. Andrew Coombes

Did very well in his debut campaign, and was unlucky to be dropped for the last game. The English locks were good as well.

5. Jim Hamilton

Completely outshone Richie Gray and dismantled many opposition line outs, with Rory Best struggling in particular.

6. Alessandro Zanni

My player of the tournament. Made some huge carries, and was the outstanding member of a performing Italian backrow.

7. Justin Tipuric

How he isn't first choice for Wales, and should be first choice for the Lions. A colossus, and his inclusion turned the Welsh campaign around.

8. Louis Picamoles

Admittedly I changed from Parisse at the last minute here, as Picamoles has been one of the only consistent French players, carrying strongly and making huge tackles.

Ireland's RWC 2015 Options from Ciaran Burke

Ciaran Burke of (@burke_cb) takes a look at the options for Ireland going forward until the World Cup in 2015.

As Ireland's 6 Nations season comes to an end against Italy this weekend ,we seem to be left with a lot of questions;

Yes, we have blooded some new talent to test rugby, but in many people's opinion it's too little too late for this management team.

So as our attention will undoubtedly turn to who will take over the international reigns or will kidney get another crack at the task ahead, I've decided to look into my crystal ball and pick a panel for the World Cup in England in 2015, ill also try and look at who can make the step up to test rugby and look at who can lead us there.

By the time the World Cup comes around chances are that D'Arcy and Drico will probably have retired and with O'Connell, Ross and others close to facing the same decision. O'Connell has stated that he would love to be part of the next World Cup and with his aura as a leader of men within the team,it would be key for management to know he is on board.

Heaslip should captain the team, as I feel he is growing into the role. That's not to say that come 2015 the management won't have the luxury of being able to call on guys like Kearney, O'Connell, O Brien , Sexton and Best to step up to the plate if needed.It is only to the benefit of the team that we have guys with the experience and leadership qualities to help with the integration of young players. For example, for Marshall and Jackson to have Drico and to a lesser extent Murray beside them and to guide them in their first tests must have been a great help ,and they will only benefit from this.

The only players I see as definite starters would be Kearney, Bowe, Sexton, Murray, Healy, Best, O Connell and the back row that started on Sunday against France.



FULLBACK:
Contenders; Kearney (29) Payne(29/30), Henshaw (22), Jones (28), Earls (28), Zebo (25).

Kearney is a definite starter unless form nosedives, his leadership and dominance in the air can not be underestimated., The fact that Earls and Zebo have played there at certain times adds to their versatility but I feel their services can be used better elsewhere . Ulsters Jared Payne for me looks the real deal and could genuinely put Kearney under pressure. Jones is yet to reach the heights of 2011 before he got injured on the eve of World Cup. Henshaw has impressed me this year at full back but some feel he is better suited to centre. He is young and I think he has a bright future ahead.

COMING UP THE OUTSIDE:
Munster bound Andrew Conway , Ulsters Ricky Andrew and U 20's Darragh Leader seem to be the pick of potential full backs; yet Conway has plenty of pace so he could yet be slotted onto the wing.

WINGERS:
Contenders: Bowe (31), Zebo (25), Luke Fitzgerald (28), Gilroy (24), Trimble (27), Earls (28).

Bowe is a starter and with his pace and ability in the air its fair to say he is one of the best wingers around. Zebo was the talk of the rugby world a month ago until injury slowed his progress, and with the so called X factor is sure to become a top class winger, that's why id include him on the other wing, remembering that he can also slot into full back. Backup would be Gilroy and Fitzgerald, with Fitzgerald an option to cover centre. Trimble is a good defender but at international level offers little in attack.




COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
O'Dea has serious pace but needs to knuckle down to get game time, Conway is another guy who could do well on the wing. O'Halloran at Connacht also deserves a mention.



OUTSIDE CENTRES:
Contenders: Earls (28), Cave(28),

Unless they clone Drico, 13 is harder to call. Earls is the front runner to replace Drico but in my opinion Earls is a better winger,anyway It's a toss up between Earls and Cave but I'd go Earls with Cave as cover.

COMING ON THE INSIDE: Munster's Barnes showed early promise but has yet to reach the highs of Munster's last Magners win when he played a key role. Ivan Dineen has looked sharp, and Eoin O'Malley at Leinster has the talent but maybe needs to bulk up. Eoin Griffin has done well at 13 for Connacht. Daly has been doing the kicking for the u20s from centre and was flawless against France so he could be one to watch in the future.

INSIDE CENTRES:
Contenders: Marshall (24), McFadden (29), Olding (21), Hanrahan (23), McSharry (25).
This is a though one to call. Marshall has stepped up against Scotland and France and looks to be there for the long haul, with McFadden as cover. McFadden has been knocking on the door for a while now and his form this year deserved better, he showed that form against France, so hopefully he can kick on. Olding, a promising young talent could be in the mix if he gets a run of games, but with Marshall ahead of him at Ulster it could be a World Cup too soon. Hanrahan also has the potential as does Connacht's McSharry

COMING ON THE INSIDE:

Ulster's Olding has showed promise at 12 but 10 or 15 could yet be his positions and it must be remembered he is still only 19.



OUTHALFS:
Contenders;Sexton (30), Jackson (23) and Madigan (26).

Sexton is a warrior and a leader that seems to get better and better with every year. Jackson as cover. Madigan could force himself into the reckoning by the time the World Cup comes around.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE;

Hanrahan at Munster is a potential national 10 but with guys like sexton, jackson and Madigan ahead of them it wont be an easy task. Crosbie is playing 10 for the u20s but Daly has been doing the kicking so its hard to gauge him as of now but he looks a good player. Daly could make the grade, and has showed there is allot more to him than just kicking, but centre may be his calling .

SCRUMHALFS:

Murray (26), Marshall (30) and Marmion (23).
Murray to start and on the evidence of his performances this year he is developing into a top player. Marshall should get his chance as backup and offers something different. I feel its a must in today's game to have two 9's that can offer different things if the game plan needs to be changed .I think these two guys offer just that. I've been impressed with Marmion's form out west so nothing can be taken for granted.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE; Watching the U20's this year I've been very impressed with McGrath, and the talk is that he is going to go on to represent Ireland in the future. Another player who has impressed is Sheridan at Munster .He has only played a handful of games, but to date looks to be able to make the step up.

FRONTROWS:

LOOSEHEAD: Contenders: Healy (28), Kilcoyne (27);
At loose head it's a case of Healy to start with Killer as backup. Healy has really stepped up in the last few years, excluding his brain fart against England, he has become the stand out loose head in the northern hemisphere.

HOOKER: Contenders: Best(33 ), Streuss(29), Cronin(29), Sherry(27);
Hooker will be Best with Strauss as cover, but don't rule out Cronin if his darts improve. Sherry could also come into the mix if his graph of improvement keeps its upward trend.

TIGHTHEAD: Contenders: Ross, (33), Archer(27), Hagan(28), Andress(31), Court(34), Fitzpatrick (32)
Now the big one; tight head, Mike Ross could be still around at the world cup as he will be around 35 and by no means over the hill; we don't have anyone really putting their hand up. I'd go with Hagan as backup. This is just an unknown . Archer is behind Botha at Munster but if given some game-time he could pass them all out. Archer has played well in the few games he has started so far and looks to be improving on last year. Andress is plying his trade in England which as Ross would know its not the worst place to learn your trade.


COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
The Byrne twins have been the talk of Leinster underage for a few years, one at hooker and the other at tight head, Connacht's New Zealand-born captain, Nathan White has been scrummaging well at tighthead. Jack McGrath maybe one to keep an eye on at Leinster. Annett in Ulster has a great teacher in Rory Best so he could also be one to keep an eye on at hooker. It must be said that in scrummaging terms you don't hit your prime until mid to late 20s so hopefully some of these guys can be seen in green down the line.

LOCKS:
Contenders: Ryan (32), McCarthy (34),O'Connell (35), Denton (27), Nagle (28), Henderson (23), Tuohy (30).

If all are fit I would bring Ryan, McCarthy, O'Connell and Henderson. If Nagle can stay injury free and get a run of games I think he has the potential, as does Denton, to be there or there abouts, Tuohy didn't look out of place when he got his caps against the All Blacks and Australia, so he could also come into contention.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
Andrew Browne and South African youngster Quinn Roux (who won't be qualified in time for the World Cup) could be ones to look out for. Dave O'Callaghan from Munster can play both back row and lock and has begun to get some game time so hopefully he can fulfill his potential.

BACKROW:
Contenders:O'Mahony (24), O'Brien (26), Heaslip (32), Ferris (30), Diack(30), Henry(31), Wilson(34), Ruddock (25), O Donnell (28).

Starters at the moment would be O'Mahony, O'Brien and Heaslip with Ferris, Henry and O'Donnell as over. This of course depends on what management want from their back rows, or if its a case of picking the best, and finding a place for them. Ruddock is a fine player and two years is a long time in development terms, so he could end up as a starter by then.

COMING UP ON THE INSIDE:
Conor Gilsenan at Leinster is been talked about as a future international 7, Ulsters Conor Joyce is another promising player, Ryan at Leinster has done well when played, but controversial as it is C.J. Stander in my opinion is the one player that has the ability to make the cut. Granted its early days and he could yet end up back in South Africa, but from the little I've seen of him it looks like a matter of time but won't make next World Cup as he won't be qualified by then.

My team: 15. Rob Kearney, 14. Tommy Bowe, 13. Keith Earls, 12. Luke Marshall, 11. Simon Zebo, 10. Jonathan Sexton, 9. Conor Murray; 8 . Jamie Heaslip, 7. Sean O'Brien, 6. Peter O'Mahony, 5. Donnacha Ryan, 4. Mike McCarthy, 3. Mike Ross, 2. Rory Best, 1. Cian Healy:

Replacements: 16. Richardt Strauss, 17. Dave Kilcoyne, 18. Jamie Hagan, 19. O'Connell, 20. Ferris, 21. Marshall, 22. Jackson, 23. Fitzgerald.