What to expect from Ireland this November

At a glance, Ireland's opponents this November seem to represent a perfect opportunity for Joe Schmidt to announce his arrival as the saviour of Irish rugby. A deeper look shows that the three teams we face are all ahead of us in the World Rankings, with Samoa (7th), Australia (4th) and New Zealand (1st) ahead of our 8th position. While expectations might be high, a potential victory-less November isn't a million miles away from happening.

First and foremost, the strength of the opponents will be difficult to overcome. As mentioned, all three are ranked ahead of us, and overall, the IRB rankings aren't a bad gauge for the relevant positions of each national team.

Kahn Fotuali'i and Samoa are not to be underestimated this November. Photo: Getty Images

Samoa have named one of their strongest ever squads, and with Ireland being their only match against a tier one nation, they will be targeting this game. Their scrum will be the strongest Ireland face in November, with Census Johnston of Toulouse, Leicester's first choice Logovii  Mulipola and Clermont's Ti'i Paulo in the front row, backed up by Toulouse's Joe Tekori and one of Dan Leo (Perpignan) and Teofilo Paulo of Cardiff in the second row. In the back row, Jack Lam (Hurricanes) will be a handful at the breakdown, while Faifili Levave is showing promise in Super Rugby with the Hurricanes. Kahn Fotuali'i is still one of the best scrumhalves in the world, while Paul Williams, Alpati Leiua (Hurricanes), George Pisi, David Lemi and Tusi Pisi (Hurricanes) are capable of carving up any team. Not the easiest of starting games for Joe to ease into.

Our second opponents, Australia, have been in terrible form recently. Winning only two of their Rugby Championship games after the lost series to the Lions, things were close to a crisis. Ewen McKenzie took control of a chaotic team and it's taken a while for things to improve, but in the last two games, the Wallabies have shown glimpses of potential. This could well spell bad news for Ireland, who might be expecting Australia to roll over.

It took awhile, but new coach Ewen McKenzie was able to turn Wallaby fortunes around. A lesson perhaps for the incoming Irish coach? © Gallo Images

The current situation in Australian rugby also issues a warning for those with high expectations for new coach Joe Schmidt. They've shown that it'll take time for systems to be put in place, and playing three teams ranked higher than Ireland for his first three games doesn't seem like the perfect place to do that. Irish fans need to be patient with Schmidt, and while wins are possible against each side, three losses will not be a failure. Having said that, we'll need something to encourage us for the 6 Nations, and strong performances, fresh players, and attacking promise should hopefully be the order of the day.

With that in mind, and the huge debate created by this article, I've come up with matchday 23's for each game that try to give young players vital experience, and give fringe players get to stake a claim and regulars can get a chance to play into form, all while Ireland remain competitive.

UPDATED: 23/10/2013 Pre Squad Selection

As mentioned, Samoa will have the strongest scrum, and with Mike Ross potentially struggling at the moment, it seems the perfect time to test one of the backups. Declan Fitzpatrick has more experience than Moore, and has started the season scrummaging well, so he starts off the selection. Australia have the weakest scrum of the 3, and Moore deserves a chance, so I've put him in starting, while Mike Ross comes back in for New Zealand where we focus solely on a game similar to a World Cup final.

From there, Dave Kilcoyne is second choice loosehead (for now) and given last seasons improvements, I think he deserves a chance to show what he can do, while James Cronin or Jack McGrath come on early in the second half. Healy will be anxious to finally face Australia, and is clear choice for New Zealand. Whoever plays best from Cronin, McGrath and Kilcoyne is backup on the bench.

Given Richardt Strauss's unfortunate heart problems, Rory Best is a clear choice as hooker. I think his leadership will be key against Samoa, and I think he'll play all three games, with Sean Cronin the most likely backup, even though Damien Varley is perhaps the form choice.

Moving to the back row (as it'll explain the second row choices). Probably the biggest strength in depth that we have, even with a number of injuries. Currently, I would have Peter O'Mahony, Sean O'Brien and Jamie Heaslip as the starting backrow for New Zealand. with Chris Henry a close backup. Given how close he is, I would put him in for Australia, moving Sean O'Brien to 6 and keeping Jamie Heaslip at 8, with Peter O'Mahony on the bench. I think this will give Ireland the best approach at the breakdown for the visit of Australia and Michael Hooper. Peter O'Mahony will provide quite an impact from the bench too. Against Samoa, I think Iain Henderson should be unleashed, while Peter O'Mahony should be given some leadership responsibilties from no. 8. Chris Henry is my choice for openside, with Sean O'Brien ably covering from the bench.

Given Paul O'Connell's importance and return injury woes, I don't think he can play all three games. Thus resting him against Samoa will give more responsibility to Rory Best and Peter O'Mahony. Originally I had Devin Toner and Dan Tuohy here, with my intention being that it's a straight fight between them for a potential bench spot in the following games. But I think with Samoa's strength, it would be wise to go with a combination, so I promoted Mike McCarthy, with Tuohy dropping to the bench. If Donnacha Ryan's injury proves to be serious, the fight between himself and McCarthy to partner will be moot, so I'd expect O'Connell and McCarthy, with Tuohy as backup. Or Henderson as an outside chance.

Kieran Marmion is in line for his Irish debut. Photo: inpho photography

So far this season, there have been a number of strong performances from Irish scrumhalves, James Hart from Grenoble springs to mind, and Paul Marshall has done alright for Ulster, but Isaac Boss and especially Kieran Marmion and Conor Murray have been outstanding. Murray is a clear number one, and will face Australia and New Zealand. I would love Marmion to have some exposure, so he gets the starting spot against Samoa, and a bench place against Australia. Boss's form is rewarded with bench spots against Samoa and New Zealand, where his physicality will be needed.

Jonny Sexton is the clear outhalf, while there are finally some contenders for his backup. Ian Madigan was so far ahead of Jackson at the end of last season, and while Jackson has impressed this season, I don't think he's overtaken Madigan yet, and thus my choices for Samoa. 

Gordon D'Arcy's partnership with Brian O'Driscoll will be vital for Ireland against New Zealand. I think Luke Marshall isn't too far behind, and his ability to cover 10, 12 and 13 gets him the bench spot. He's pushing hard for a starting spot, so I'd give him the start against Australia, while O'Driscoll's ability to play all three games is unlikely, giving a chance to see Henshaw and Darren Cave in the thirteen jersey, with the experienced Gordon D'Arcy best placed to guide him through it.

I'm not expecting Niall Morris to make the squad, thus Rob Kearney will be the starting fullback in each game, which will give him some time to build into something close to his top form. Putting someone who can cover outside centre on the bench against Samoa will allow Henshaw to move into fullback at some stage. 

Wingers however I'm completely torn. The only thing I can decide on is Tommy Bowe is a certain starter, so I put him in for New Zealand and Australia, with the two wingers against Samoa in a straight fight for further inclusion. The inclusion of Henshaw on the bench for Australia is also tempting. 

I went for Fitzgerald against New Zealand as I think his defense is the strongest of all the candidates, while I think Trimble's kick chase work ethic is the best and I can foresee a number of Conor Murray boxkicks targeting the Wallabies second and third choice wingers. If Craig Gilroy is back fit in time, he would be my choice.

End of Year Tests: Irish Selections

The end of Round 2 of the Heineken Cup is a great time to gauge the status of the Irish squad, all the more so as the squad for the November internationals are named this week. Most of the regulars are a few weeks back, and there are some fresh blood who have stepped up in the early season.

Gilroy was the star of 2012's end of year Tests Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy / SPORTSFILE

Before I get to the selection, a mention for the provinces, who all won this weekend, and all denied their opposition losing bonus points. However, I think only Ulster can be happy with their performance and result. Leinster played poorly, and were lucky that a better opposition didn't punish them. While they would have been delighted to win and deny Castres a bonus point, they can't have been happy with how they lost control as Kockott scored from the scrum.

Munster and Connacht however will, or should, be even more frustrated. Both teams should have recorded bonus point wins, and both teams, while not playing good enough had many chances. Connacht especially inexplicably chose to take the points from 19-6, all the way to 25-6. If they are to earn the respect of Sunday Times "journalists", they should show that they have the ambition to get out of the group by getting bonus point victories against teams like Zebre. What was more frustrating was on the two occasions that they did go for the corner, tries were scored off first phase.

Anyway, there has been enough promise from Irish players that Joe Schmidt has a few interesting calls to make for his first squad;

At loosehead, I don't think Ireland have ever had as many quality options as before. Cian Healy is a certainty, while James Cronin and Jack McGrath have been impressive with their early season form. I missed the Ulster game at the weekend, but from all accounts, "Angry" Tom Court certainly put his hand up. Dave Kilcoyne is the current understudy to Healy, but I don't think he's started the season in good enough form.

Richardt Strauss's unfortunate health problems weakens Irish options, with presumably three hookers to be included, the big choice will be between Mike Sherry and Damien Varley. Ordinarily, I'm a Sherry fan, and I think that Varley concedes far too many penalties. In the last two weeks, Sherry's throwing has been very poor, while Varley has made positive impacts and performed better. Varley would be the form call.

Martin Moore looks set to ease Ireland's tighthead crisis ©INPHO/James Crombie

On form, Martin Moore looks set for his first call up. On form, he's been a distance ahead of Mike Ross this season. Joe Schmidt needs to try someone other than Ross for the Samoa game as Ross is still showing the affects of being flogged to death. Other options include Declan Fitpatrick, who is impressing as long as he holds together, Jamie Hagan, Stephen Archer, and Ronan Loughney, who scrummaged strongly against Zebre. Ross, Fitzpatrick and Moore are the likely three.

It will be fantastic to have Paul O'Connell back in the Irish fold, and Donnacha Ryan and Mike McCarthy will also be included. Devin Toner has arguably been the best performing Leinster second row, and Schmidt may make a familiar call here. I've been impressed whenever I see Dan Tuohy, and I'd include him in any squad.

The starting backrow will be Peter O'Mahony, Jamie Heaslip and Sean O'Brien, with Chris Henry supporting from the bench. Iain Henderson will be in the squad. Schmidt seemed to be a fan of Kevin McLaughlin when in charge of Leinster, and I think Sean Dougall's performance yesterday means he would be worth calling him up to look at in training. Robin Copeland's man of the match performance in Cardiff's shock defeat of Toulon could put him in the reckoning.

Conor Murray's Lions adventure has improved him as a player. Source: Limerick Leader

Dear British Lions, thank you for improving Conor Murray beyond recognition. Isaac Boss seems to be enjoying an Indian summer in his career, and Kieran Marmion is showing no signs of "second season syndrome". I fear he'll be overlooked for either the underperforming Eoin Reddan or Paul Marshall who has blown hot and cold this season. James Hart of Grenoble shouldn't be discounted, and while it's probably too early for him, he might sneak into a Wolfhounds squad soon.

Jonny Sexton has been one of the few Racing players that have played well, and that won't have gone unnoticed by Schmidt. Madigan's end of year form will be enough for him to stay as number 2, while Paddy Jackson has put the first few weeks of this yer behind him and put in some impressive displays. A mention for Gareth Steenson who is still producing for Exeter, and Ian Keatley is improving in Munster.

Dave McSharry's injury problems have come at the wrong time, as there is now at least 3 players ahead of him, with Luke Marshall and Stuart Olding fighting for probably one place beside Gordon D'Arcy.

If Brian O'Driscoll is fit, he starts. Everyone in rugby should know that. Robbie Henshaw's recent move to outside centre means he'll be next in line, and will also cover fullback, leaving Rob Kearney as the likely only 15 in the squad. Niall Morris is an outside bet.

Wing is the most interesting position. Tommy Bowe is the only certainty after Zebo's injury. Gilroy's absence recently probably rules him out, and both Andrew Trimble and Mike Allen have impressed in Ulster, Fergus McFadden is likely, while Luke Fitzgerald looked very bright when coming on against Castres. Munster fans will tell you Earls and Johne Murphy have been in great form. Pick 4 from those names and I guarantee you they'd be different from mine.

Likely squad
Healy, Kilcoyne, McGrath
Best, Cronin, Sherry
Ross, Fitzpatrick, Moore
O'Connell, Ryan, McCarthy, Toner
Henderson, O'Mahony, O'Brien, Henry, Heaslip
Murray, Boss, Reddan,
Sexton, Madigan, Jackson
Marshall, D'Arcy
O'Driscoll, Henshaw
Bowe, Earls, McFadden, Fitgerald
Kearney

My squad
Healy, Cronin, McGrath.
Best, Cronin, Varley,
Ross, Fitzpatrick, Moore
O'Connell, Ryan, Tuohy, Toner, Henderson
O'Mahony, Henry, O'Brien, Heaslip, Dougall
Murray, Boss, Marmion
Sexton, Madigan
Marshall, D'Arcy
O'Driscoll, Henshaw
Bowe, Trimble, Fitzgerald,
Kearney, Morris

Currie Cup For Beginners: Update

Playoff Lineup

Promotion/ Relegation


19 October 2013 Griquas v Pumas Hoffe Park Stadium, Kimberley
26 October 2013 Pumas v Griquas Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

Semi-Finals

19 October 2013 Western Province v Golden Lions Newlands Stadium, Cape Town
19 October 2013 Natal Sharks v Free State Cheetahs Growthpoint Kings Park, Durban

Story So Far

Cheslin Kolbe impressed for Western Province

It's been an intriguing Currie Cup, with many tight games, with all teams apart from the Griquas with the potential to beat each other. Western Province somehow remained unbeaten, recording 2 draws but only one try bonus point. This was all the more impressive given that it was achieved without their Springboks, with the likes of Gio Aplon and Cheslin Kolbe stepping up out wide, and Deon Fourie impressing after moving from hooker to openside flanker. Nizam Carr has also been one of the standout players for them, and if it weren't for the returning Duane Vermuelen, Carr would be one of the standouts for the Stormers in next years Super Rugby. Damian Allende, a 21 year old inside centre has also impressed in the absence of Jean de Villiers, and it will be interesting to view his progress in the coming years.

Natal Sharks started badly, giving the Griquas their only win in week one, but managed to come back and secure 2nd place. Their returning stars will give them the edge against the Cheetahs in the semi finals. The Sharks managed to get losing bonus points in all 3 of their losses, and were a little more adventurous than Western Province, managing 2 try bonus points. 20 year old flyhalf Fred Zeilinga finished the regular season as top points scorer. Zeilinga represented the Sharks at every level from Under 13, but hasn't represented South Africa at any level, being overlooked for Tony Jantjies and Handre Pollard of the Bulls.

The Free State Cheetahs, continued their Super Rugby form the Cheetahs finishing 3rd. Raymond Rhule finished top try scorer with 7 in 10 games, while Sarel Pretorius and Boom Prinsloo impressed.

The Golden Lions produced a mixed season, with the highlight being the destruction of the Blue Bulls 23-62 in "fortress" Loftus Versfeld. The Lions scored the most tries in the competition, and had the most try bonus points with 5 with only 4 wins. Elton Jantjies revelled in the less structured approach of the Lions after returning from the Stormers, while Derek Minnie impressed and looks set to make the Lions competitive in next year's Super Rugby.

The Blue Bulls, even without their Springboks, were terrible. The form of their outhalves didn't help, with both Tony Jantjies and Handre Pollard in inconsistent form, and coach Pine Pienaar's decisions to rotate them throughout the season.

Players Signed For Super Rugby

Bulls:
William Small Smith (Blue Bulls) Outside Centre

Lions:
Ricky Schroeder (Boland Caviliers) Scrumhalf

ITM Cup For Beginners: Update

It's nearly semi final time in the ITM Cup, and I haven't been following it as much as I'd have liked.

The semi final line up is as follows;

Championship:

Saturday 19th October 4:35am
Tasman (1) v (4) Southland

Sunday 20th October 2:35am
Otago (2) v (3) Hawke's Bay

Premiership:

Friday 18th October 7:35 am
Wellington (1) v (4) Counties Manakau
Result: 44-10
Wellington cruise into the final with the back row of Shields, Savea and Vito particularly impressing. It's unlikely that they will be stopped.

Saturday 19th October 2:05am
Canterbury (2) v (3) Auckland

Story So Far

There have been 4 standout teams in the ITM Cup this season. Wellington have been by a distance the best team in the competition, with Canterbury and Auckland close by on their tails in the Premiership.

Tasman have also been very impressive after cantering to top seeds in the Championship.

Ardie Savea scores v Auckland. Source: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images AsiaPac

Wellington have swept all before them with Ardie Savea standing out in an impressive back row, where the performances of Victor Vito will also have BNZ selectors interested.  Such was Wellington's dominance that they started with 4 try bonus point wins in the first 4 games, including beating Counties 19-55 in the first week. They ended up winning their next 4 games, which also included victories against Canterbury and a bonus point win over Auckland, the other two semi finalists. The only blot on their mark was a loss to Hawke's Bay in the last week having already guaranteed top spot.

Canterbury and Auckland also started well, not losing until the 6th and 5th weeks respectively, with Canterbury's only loss to Wellington by 19 points to 25. Auckland were a little more sloppy, with losses to Waikato and Otago also on their copybook.

Waikato and Taranaki had average seasons, neither one threatening either relegation or the playoffs, while Bay of Plenty struggled.

Tasman were very impressive in their march to the Championship top spot, with only losses to Canterbury and a bad loss to North Harbour their only blots, although not playing Auckland or Wellington certainly helped.

Otago were next best, and while they had mixed season, their 4 losses all came against teams who ended up in the semi finals. They finished the season strongly with two bonus point wins, but will be looking to make up for their one point loss to Hawke's Bay in the semi finals.

Finishing one point behind them was Hawke's Bay, and in what looks like a very tight semi final, both teams had similar seasons with 4 losses each. A loss to Bay of Plenty early on was a set back, but victories over Otago, Southland and Wellington set up Hawke's Bay up for a push for promotion.

Southland won only 3 of their 9 games, and scraped into the semi finals at the expense of Manwatu, but shouldn't be expecting much from their semi final sojourn.

Northland, despite the magic of Rene Ranger and Rupeni Caucaunibuca, couldn't muster up a semi final challenge, while one win and a draw was all North Harbour could manage.

Ranfurly Shield

Premiership semi finalists Counties Manakau had a great season after being promoted last year. Not only did they manage to finish 4th, they also finished the season with the Ranfurly Shield after it changed hands several times.

Counties Manakau claim the Ranfurly Shield. Getty Images

Waikato started the season as holders, and managed to successfully fend off North Harbour before losing the following week to Otago. It was the first time in 56 years for Otago to hold the Ranfurly Shield, which made it all the more devastating they lost it the following week in that one point loss to Hawke's Bay. Hawke's Bay couldn't do much better, losing the following defense to Counties Manakau, where the shield stayed after 3 successful defenses to Taranaki, Waikato and Southland.

Standout Players

Wellington - Ardie Savea, Shaun Treeby

As mentioned, Savea looked a class apart in this competition, showing a complete range of skills, from impressive steals, strong running and great finishing collecting up with 4 tries. Treeby has also scored 4 tries, and was magnificent against Counties in the semi final displaying strong defensive highlighted by the great rip which set up his try. Other strong Wellington performers include Victor Vito, who must have earned his way back into BNZ selector's thoughts for the end of year tour.

Canterbury - Jordan Taufua, Luke Whitelock, Mildford Keresoma

While Canterbury are a highly drilled unit with each player performing highly, it was hard to pick one player as a standout. No team scored more tries than Canterbury, highlighted by the fact that Mildford Keresoma leads the try scoring charts with 8 after 9 games. At 21, he looks to have a big future in the game. Patrick Osborne and Adam Whitelock both finished with 5 tries, Rob Thompson with 4, while Ryan Crotty and Luke Whitelock bagged 3 each. With 4 different outhalves tried in Canterbury just highlights the sense of a team stepping up and no one individual standing out. Jordan Taufua is one to watch out for next season in Super Rugby though, with much expected of the 21 year old, he performed well when given the chance this competition.

Auckland - Simon Hickey, Lolagi Visinia

Simon Hickey impressed for Auckland Source: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images AsiaPac

After watching a lot of the JWC, Simon Hickey had a mixed competition. After starting extremely brightly against Australia, once Ireland started to come back, Hickey faded into obscurity and never really recovered. Until now. Given the reigns in Auckland, Hickey's steered them into third place, and has bagged over 100 points in the competition. From the New Zealand Herald (who aren't known to praise lightly) "Hickey has had some bright spots this year. A sideline conversion to win their Super City derby against Counties Manukau in week four stands out, while his kicking and running have impressed."

Still only 19, Hickey will have another year at Under 20s next year. A frightening thought.

Visinia is himself only 20, which means his tally of 6 tries is very impressive. Another young backthree who will look to get some gametime for the Blues next season.

Counties Manukau - Sherwin Stowers

He may be without a team for next season's Super Rugby and will turn instead to 7s, but Sherwin Stowers was one of the names that New Zealand commentators praised highly for his performances. A player with huge X factor, the crowd audibly got excited whenever he got the ball, and more often than not he made things happen. It seems incredible that he couldn't find a team for Super Rugby next year, at 27, he should only be approaching his peak. A far cry from 2011, when he turned down both the Chiefs and the Highlanders to sign for the Blues.

Tasman - James Lowe

Like Stowers, James Lowe is someone who makes things happen, and was the standout player in the Tasman side. A number of this side has been subsequently signed for Super Rugby, including Lowe, who will be looking to replace Lelia Masaga for the Chiefs. Scorer of 6 tries himself, Lowe also has the ability to break the line and create things for others.

Otago -Hayden Parker,  Fa'asiu Fuatai

Hayden Parker finished the regular season as top points scorer with 161, and generally looked a tidy player. With Slade leaving the Highlanders, the 22 year old will be looking to challenge Lima Sopoaga for the starting spot. Parker displayed maturity beyond his years in this years competition, and players similar to Beauden Barrett.

Southland - Cardiff Vaega

Admitedly, I don't think I caught one Southland game, but I had to include Vaega for this article, from stuff.co.nzstuff.co.nz:

Southland midfielder Cardiff Vaega has claimed the final spot in the Hurricanes squad for 2014.
Vaega signed with the franchise this week, after Wellington Lions lock Mark Reddish also recommitted to the team for 2014.
The two signings round off the Hurricanes' roster for next season, with its wider training group members still to be added.
Vaega, 22, has been a standout for Southland during the provincial season particularly through his midfield pairing with Willis Halaholo.
Hurricanes' coaches Mark Hammett and Alama Ieremia felt Vaega had been at the forefront of that pairing, and would be a good fit for the Hurricanes in 2014.
Assistant and backs coach, Ieremia, said Vaega was extremely physical, made accurate defensive decisions, and had been one of the standout midfielders during the 2013 ITM Cup.
"Cardiff offers size and a physical presence we were looking for in our midfield. He's been a consistent performer for the Southland team and we're excited to help him develop his game through the Hurricanes environment.
"As a team man, he will fit well into our culture and we welcome him to the next challenge of his career."
Vaega said he couldn't be more excited to pick up the last spot in the Hurricanes squad, and put his selection down to the confidence he had developed in Southland.
"I've got a bit more confidence this year which has enabled me to express myself better on the field and show people what I have to offer.
"I grew up watching and admiring a number of players in the Hurricanes and can't wait to have a chance to pull the jersey on myself. I'm looking forward to representing the team as best I can on and off the field."

Players signed for Super Rugby teams from ITM Cup.

Blues:
Patrick Tuipulotu (Auckland) Second Row

Chiefs:

James Lowe starred for Tasman and was rewarded with a move to the Chiefs. Source: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images AsiaPac

Matt Symons (Canterbury) Second Row
Liam Squire (Tasman) No. 8
James Lowe (Tasman) Wing

Crusaders
Mitchell Drummon (Canterbury) Scrumhalf

Highlanders:
Tom Franklin (Otago) Second Row
Gareth Evans (Otago) Flanker
Shane Christie (Tasman) Flanker
Kurt Baker (Taranaki) Full Back

Hurricanes:
Mark Abbot (Hawke's Bay) Second Row
Marty Banks (Tasman) Fly Half
Cardiff Vaega (Southland) Centre

Rebels:
Telusa Veainu (Canterbury) Wing

Pro 12: Players to watch out for: Part 3 - Irish Provinces

Part 1 - Welsh regions
Part 2 - Italy / Scottish Clubs
Part 3 - Irish Provinces

Like Wales, Ireland have a number of promising youngsters coming through the ranks, however, unlike Wales, the opportunities for these players may not be as abundant because most of the Irish stars still play for their province.

There are a few promising players coming through who will need a big season this year if they are to fulfill their huge potential. I tried to avoid picking someone with a huge amount of talent that happened to have a lot of competition ahead of him, as I thought his chances might be more limited than someone who needs a big season if he is to convince the coaches and fans that he's the real deal.

Connacht
Back - Matt Healy

This was possibly the hardest choice of all. Tiernan O'Hallorhan hasn't hit the heights that I expected of him since watching him express at under 20s at the same time as the likes of Andrew Conway, Simon Zebo and Darren Hudson. And Shane Layden was fantastic for the 20s a year ago.

But I've decided to go for Matt Healy, a former underage scrumhalf, now 26, this is Healy's second season at Connacht, and he's already tripled the amount of appearances he's had for them this season. What's more, he's impressed hugely in those two games scoring two scorching tries. A big season for him and he could be assured of a career in the professional ranks,

Forward - Denis Buckley

There were also a few contenders for this spot, but with the additions of Craig Clarke and Aly Muldowney, the prospect of Mick Kearney getting more gametime seemed minimal. However, 23 year old prop Denis Buckley will be looking to add to his 27 caps from the last two seasons, and cement his place in the Connacht first team. Once he gets a consistent run of games and exposure to the Heineken Cup, there's no reason why he shouldn't be involved in future Ireland squads.

Leinster
Back - Brendan Macken

Similar to the backs in Connacht, this was a tough choice. I was extremely tempted to pluck for Luke McGrath, but at 4th choice, and given that he's only 20, he still has a year of development left. However, with Brian O'Driscoll retiring in a year, with the unfortunate injury enforced retirement of Eoin O'Malley, Brendan Macken needs a strong year to show Matt O'Connor that he can be the province's outside centre for years to come, especially with a lack of alternatives in the squad and in the academy, with other options Adam Byrne and Fergus McFadden perhaps more suited to other positions.

Forward - Martin Moore

He's had a strong start to the season, and is perhaps benefitting the most from the departure of Jamie Hagan, and the apparent injury to Michael Bent. From his early season form, Moore is beginning to fulfill some of the promise that has been apparent from an early age, and Bent looks to be in difficulty to regain his spot. More competition from Irish tightheads is always a good thing, and the whole of the country will be interested at Moore's progression this year.

Munster
Back - JJ Hanrahan

There were other contenders, like Ronan O'Mahony, Luke O'Dea, Andrew Conway and Ivan Dineen. But really, with Ronan O'Gara gone, the former JWC player of the year finalist was the only option. Many people's choice for a future long term outhalf. It's surprising that last season he wasn't given many chances, but he seems like he's set to challenge Keatley for a place in the starting XV, and has the skills and ability to play at 12 too. A fantastic prospect, and like Moore, many will be watching his progress with interest. Hopefully will be in Schmidt's plans by the summer tour.

Forward - Stephen Archer

A last minute change of mind, I had Paddy Butler in here until the last moment, but Ireland's current tighthead issues, any tighthead of any note will be scrutinised. John Ryan will be breathing down Archer's neck, so Archer needs to take advantage of any opportunity he gets, especially while Botha is out injured at the moment.


Ulster
Back - Chris Farrell

One of the easier choices, If you've been listening to any Ulster supported in the last two years, you'll know that this guy is something special. More has been said about Chris Farrell than any other prospect that's come through in the last while, more than Paddy Jackson, Luke Marshall, Stuart Olding or Craig Gilroy.

Read more here

Forward - Niall Annett

I've been an admirer of Niall Annett for a long time. Ever since he was one of the star performers for the 20s as captain a number of years ago. Whenever he has played for Ulster, his throwing has been exemplary and his scrummaging has always been impressive. This doesn't even take into account the work he gets through and the amount of ball he carries. It's mystifying to me why he isn't the second choice up there, but hopefully he will be come the end of the year, because everything I've seen about him so far screams long term international.

Pro 12: Players to watch out for: Part 2 - Scottish / Italian Clubs

Part 1 - Welsh regions
Part 2 - Italy / Scottish Clubs
Part 3 - Irish Provinces

Treviso
Back - Angelo Esposito (winger)

Angelo Esposito is a 20 year old exciting talent. Already involved in Italian national squads, it won't be long until his speed excites fans and gives Treviso another boost up the table.

Forward - Giovanni Maistri (hooker)

A former captain of Italy's JWC squad in 2012, Maistri will be looking to build on the 12 appearances he achieved last season, with two in the Heineken Cup. The 21 year old hooker has already started the season well, with one start under his belt already.


Zebre
Back - Leonardo Sarto (wing)

Another 21 year old perhaps already familiar with fans is Leonardo Sarto. After a decent season for Zebre last year, Sarto was capped on their tour to South Africa. Sarto's underage try scoring record was good, with 2 tries in 3 JWC games, and 4 tries in 8 under 20 games overall over two years. He also demonstrated his defensive awareness with this try saver last season.

Forward - Andrea Manici (hooker)

Manici was an explosive carrying machine against Munster last weekend. The 23 year old has already been capped by Italy, and will be back up to Ghiraldini for the national side. A strong runner with a touch of pace, Manici will challenge Ghiraldini and could be part of the Italian front row for years to come.


Glasgow
Back - Mark Bennett (centre)

Mark Bennett is the player I'm most looking forward to watching this season. At just 20 years of age, Bennett already has the likes of Clermont Auvergne on his CV. A versatile back, his pace, strength and running lines make him the most exciting thing to come out of Scotland since deep fried Mars Bars. Not only should Bennett make the Scottish side this November, but I'm backing him, injury barring, to be on the Lions squad in 4 years.

Forward - Jonny Gray (lock)

Brother to Lion Richie, Richie himself once warned that his younger brother Jonny was the one to watch. Jonny captained the Scottish Under 20s in the JWC last year, and already has two appearances this season, with one start. He will be battling with Tim Swinson and Ali Kellock for a place in the Glasgow side, with Gregor Townsend not afraid to give youth a chance, Gray has a big season ahead of him.

Edinburgh

Back - Jamie Farndale (wing)

Scottish Rugby has been waiting years for a talented outside back to come through the ranks, and all of a sudden Farndale looks like being the third in a short space of time after Bennett and Hogg. A big, strong and pacey winger in the mould of George North. Farndale also has great timing for joining the line, looks defensively sound, and isn't afraid to throw in an offload, or kick in behind. Only a matter of time before he leapfrogs Tim Visser or Sean Maitland into the Scottish side.

Such is Farndale's ability that he finished top scorer in JWC 2012, despite Scotland's poor showing. He has a lot of competition for places in Edinburgh with Visser, Cuthbert, Jones, Walker and Brown, but has time on his side, and he will be eligible for a third JWC next summer. Whether he'll be there or higher up in the Scottish ranks will depend on this season.

Forward - Grant Gilchrist (lock)

The 23 year old second row is a former recipient of the McPhail scholarship award where players spend a year in the renowned Canterbury academy in New Zealand, Gilchrist came back and made an immediate breakthrough making almost 50 appearances last season. Such was his form last year that Gilchrist made his debut in the 2013 6 Nations, and this year Gilchrist will be hoping to be involved again this year with even more competition in the second row

Pro 12: Players to watch out for: Part 1 - Welsh Regions

Part 1 - Welsh regions
Part 2 - Italy / Scottish Clubs
Part 3 - Irish Provinces

There is an abundance of talent coming through in the Pro 12, and despite Rabodirect pulling out, and the confusion that reigns over the Heineken Cup, this league is going from strength to strength.

One country that is worth keeping an eye out for is Wales, who despite losing players like Jamie Roberts, Dan Lydiate and Mike Philips from the regions, have a number of fantastic prospects fresh from the JWC final to come straight in and get an opportunity.

I've picked a back and a forward from each team in the Pro 12, who look like they are going to have a big season, and I'll be monitoring these players throughout the season.

Cardiff Blues:
Back: Rhys Patchell (outhalf)

There was a lot of competition, with Cory Allen, Owen Williams, Harry Robinson and Tom Williams all featuring heavily, but at outhalf, Rhys Patchell looks set to first make the Blues position his own, and then challenge strongly for the Welsh team. At just 20 years old, Patchell is exciting a lot of Welsh fans, and he could be the solution to the "problem" outhalf position for Wales for many years to come. He's started the season strongly, and almost single handedly beat Connacht last weekend.

Forward: Ellis Jenkins (openside)

It's a big season for the captain of that impressive Welsh Under 20s side, Jenkins will look to get as much game time as possible as Sam Warburton eases back from Lions duty. Cardiff seem to favour older more experienced forwards, but Jenkins is by a distance the most exciting young forward in their ranks, and if last year's JWC is anything to go by, Sam Warburton will have another challenger for the openside berth.

Neath and Swansea Ospreys:

Back: Matthew Morgan (outhalf)

While the Ospreys may possess the current JWC player of the year in Sam Davies in their ranks, their is one other outhalf that is a year further down the development ranks and has been afforded more opportunities to showcase his talents. Matthew Morgan, now 21, has a big season ahead of him if he is to remain as the back up to Dan Biggar before Davies gets his chance.

Morgan is a naturally talented runner with the ball, known for making great line breaks, but has been learning how to control and dictate play from the outhalf position for the last few seasons.

Forward: Tyler Ardron (blindside)

Tyler Ardron is a new signing in Swansea, with the 22 year old already one of the youngest captains of a Canadian senior team. Ardron is a player that walesonline seem most excited about. He was an unused subsititute against Leinster, and looks like he will be eased into action.

Llanelli Scarlets

Back: Steve Shingler (inside centre)

The player that caused so much controversy when Scotland attempted to select him for the 2012 Six Nations, despite Wales claiming that he had already played for their designated second team. Given Shingler's strong start to the season, it might be the year whether we find out whether he was worth the fuss, or whether this was a perfect of example of highlighting the rules to rugby fans. Only time will tell.

Forward: Rhodri Jones (prop)

Already a Welsh international at 21 years of age, Jones made his Welsh debut against the Barbarians in 2012, and toured with the Welsh side to Australia that summer. Having made 64 appearances for Scarlets, Jones looks to have a battle on his hands to cement his place in the Scarlets XV, but time is on his side.

Newport Gwent Dragons

Back: Jack Dixon (inside centre)

18 year old Jack Dixon made a big impression at this year's JWC, and is likely to be one of Wales's key players next year. Having started both of the Dragon's games this season, the 6'2'' centre looks like he is set to build on last season's breakout year. Big hard and quick, Dixon will be hard to miss this season.

Forward: Ieuan Jones

After last season's breakthrough, Jones will be looking to cement his place in the Dragons back row alongside Toby Faletau. Jones will be hoping that the lose of loss of Dan Lydiate means he is given more gametime to further impress.