Samoans to watch out for

The Samoans have named their team to face Ireland this Saturday, and here's what you need to know about the threats they face. The suggestion that this is an understrength Samoan team is a bit much. It's the strongest Samoan team that Ireland have ever faced.

Samoa (v Ireland):

15. F Autagavaia;

14. A Leiua,

13. G Pisi,

12. J Leota,

11. B Vaalu;

10. T Pisi,

9. K Fotuali’i (capt);

1. S Taulafo,

2. W Ole Avei,

3. L Mulipola;

4. F Lemalu,

5. T Paulo;

6. O Treviranus,

7. J Lam,

8. T Tuifua.

Replacements:

16. T Paulo,

17. V Afatia,

18. J Johnston,

19. I Tekori,

20. A Faosiliva,

21. J Sua,

22. I Tuifua,

23. F Otto.

Kahn Fotuali'i

Fotuali'i is the player most Irish fans recognise from his time at the Ospreys. Having developed in the ITM Cup like most Samoan players, Fotuali'i was the Crusaders starting scrumhalf for the 2010 season, causing many to believe he was about to receive a call up to the New Zealand side. However, at the end of the season, he chose to represent Samoa, and he left New Zealand to move to Swansea. He has since established himself as one of the best scrumhalves in the world, with last November's win against Wales one of the highlights of his career.

His recent move to Northampton hasn't been as successful, and he's been second choice behind Lee Dickson so far, which means he might be a little rusty come Saturday.

Nevertheless, his battle with Conor Murray will be one that Murray needs to win in order for Ireland to establish their dominance.

Alpati Leiua

One of three sets of brothers in the Samoan squad, Leiua made his Samoan debut this June. The 25 year old is a strong fast winger, that will cause Fergus McFadden all sorts of problems. 2013 has been a great year for him so far, as he took advantage of the injury to Cory Jane to cement his place on the wing for the Hurricanes, before strong performances for Wellington saw them reach of the final of the ITM Cup.

Johnny Leota

Sometimes, watching a video gives you everything you need to know about a player, and youtube user Nic Lush, has several videos on the aspects of Johnny Leota's game. The playlist of seven videos is below, showcasing his breakdown ability, his passing and offloads, his ability to break the line, his tries, his huge tackling and his kicking ability.

Tusi Pisi & George Pisi

The Pisi brothers are missing their brother Ken, who plays for Northampton with George, but both start on Saturday. The selection of George at outside centre offsets the loss of Gavin Williams, and potentially makes Samoa stronger for it. The match up between himself and Brian O'Driscoll will be a pre-cursor to the back to back Heineken Cup games between Northampton and Leinster in December. George has been fantastic for Northampton and was even named in the team of the season last year.

His brother Tusi is a typical Polynesian magician at outhalf. He has an impressive CV, with Crusaders, Hurricanes, Toulon and Suntory in Japan among the clubs he's played for, while he was in the Pacific Islands team that played in the old Lansdowne Road in 2006.

To give you a hint of the magic up Pisi's sleeve, this article from 2004 describes it well.

We play modified touch and when he's up against Rico Gear, Hosea Gear, Anthony Tuitavake, Nick Evans he's the slickest mover of them all.

Sakaria Taulafo

Admitedly, I don't know much about the Stade Francais loosehead, and I was expected Mulipola at loosehead and James Johnston at tighthead, but when the authority on French rugby, Murray Kinsella says he's good, that's enough for me.

@shaneoleary1 had to start. Filo Paulo has been a rock for them, so Tekori to be used in 2nd half. Taulafo also a key man for them (2/2).

— Murray Kinsella (@Murray_Kinsella) November 7, 2013

Logovi'i Mulipola

Tigers prop has made huge strides in the last year since he signed for Richard Cockerill's men.
Cockerill said at the time of signing him:

"He has raw talent and arrived a couple of stone heavier than he is now.
"He can play at tight head and loose head, and props who can play on both sides of the scrum, can carry the ball well and are big men, are very hard to find.
"He is very raw but he will get better with us. He weighs almost 130kgs (20 stones) and that is his streamlined weight.
"He is a couple of stones heavier than Dan Cole and Castro."

Read more: http://legacy.thisisleicestershire.co.uk/Samoan-prop-Logovi-Mulipola-lands-deal-Leicester/story-14389178-detail/story.html#ixzz2k0f1Hvm1

Last May an injury to Argentina's Marcus Ayerza gave Mulipola the chance, when Cockerill chose to pick Mulipola over Castrogiovanni, albeit on his less-favoured loosehead side, which he has taken and has kept Ayerza out since. This Saturday he'll switch to his favoured tighthead side, and will be a massive challenge for Jack McGrath on his debut.

Ofisa Treviranus

Alpati Leiua's brother, has previously played for Connacht and now plays for London Irish, is Treviranus of the few survivors from the side that narrowly lost 20-10 to Ireland in 2010.

Jack Lam

Lam may have only made his Samoan debut this June, but make no mistake, his Super Rugby experience means he's no newcomer to big games. A cousin of Connacht's Pat Lam, Jack is most likely to be the biggest thorn in Ireland's side. Chris Henry will have his hand full at the breakdown, and Lam is likely to disrupt Ireland any chance he can, while smashing players in the tackle, and driving Samoa forward. The 25 year old hasn't had the best of seasons with injury, but he will be a spearhead for Samoa for years to come.

Players to watch this November: Irish Provinces

Despite the excitement of the upcoming internationals, there are still some Rabo Pro 12 games this month. Here are some players that are worth keeping an eye on over the next few weeks.

1. Dave McSharry

I know technically because Connacht only have one player in the Irish squad not much has changed, except now, they are entitled to feel like they can pick up points. Plus, Dave McSharry is back after a long time out with injury that ruined his chances of making the summer tour. Hopefully back with a vengenance, Connacht have missed McSharry's hard running from the inside centre, and need the go forward momentum that he generates.

2. Darragh Leader

If you haven't seen it already then watch Leader's massive 60m kick to win the game for the Connacht second string. Leader has progressed very well from the Under 20s last summer, and the young three-quarters gets an opportunity at outside centre now that Robbie Henshaw has been summoned by Joe Schmidt. A big test for him, if it goes well then Henshaw might not get his jersey when November ends.

3. Dave Kilcoyne

The first player in here that needs a big November to prove to Joe Schmidt and newly found doubters that last season wasn't a fluke. Kilcoyne has struggled this year, whether due to the new scrum laws or a case of second season syndrome, but maybe having the chance to perform without the intense spotlight during November will help him get back to basics.

4. Ian Nagle

Ian Nagle is in need of a big November more than most. Long pronounced as another Munster warrior that would take up the helm from Paul O'Connell, it's been 5 years since and Nagle has found it difficult to break the first team. His contract is up at the end of the year, and he needs to force his way into the reckoning to get a chance to prove he hasn't wasted his talent.

5. Ronan O'Mahony

There are a few good young backs for Munster coming through, and with injuries and Keith Earls's call up, O'Mahony has a chance to earn some brownie points and try to cement his place in the 23 before van den Heever arrives. A quality finisher who gets lots of tries, Munster need his scoring ability.

6. Luke McGrath

Luke McGrath setting up a try on his debut v Ospreys. Photo: sportsnewsireland

Admitedly, one of my "favourites". With both Eoin Reddan and Isaac Boss away on Irish duty, and both of them coming to the end of their careers, here is a big opportunity for McGrath to showcase his talent in an attempt to finish this season with some valuable experience. McGrath will be looking to add to his impressive preseason but he'll have stiff competition from John Cooney, but McGrath is one of the players that I'm most excited to see this November.

7. Jack O'Connell

Leinster have started to produce a number of quality looseheads in recent years, and if rumours are to be believed, Jack O'Connell is set to follow in Cian Healy and Jack McGrath's footsteps sooner rather than later. Ironically it's the call up of Healy and McGrath that gives O'Connell his chance, and he'll be looking to make the most of it starting tonight from the bench against the Dragons.

8. James McKinney

A potential challenger to Paddy Jackson's monopoly of the Ulster 10 jersey, I think McKinney has what it takes. Recently returned from a stint in the championship, McKinney's game management is excellent, and his goalkicking is very impressive. After some impressive performances this November, Jackson will be looking over his shoulder nervously.

9. Chris Farrell

As mentioned in a previous article, Chris Farrell is one of the most highly thought of, of the current emerging young backs in Ulster. With Luke Marshall in Irish camp, Farrell should get some great experience and go on to challenge Marshall and Olding for a centre spot in the near future.

Players to watch this November: Internationals

With South Africa announcing their squad for the November internationals, it means all of the top 13 nations have shown their hand. Most, like South Africa, have gone with experience in the hope of continuing on their winning streak, while others, like Italy, have brought an infusion of youth into their squads.

1. Mark Bennett (Scotland)

I may have mentioned Mark Bennett before. A few times perhaps. There is a reason for this. Having Clermont Auvergne on your CV is no mean feat, and he is Scotland's most exciting talent in a period where there are a few youngsters coming through. Bennett is likely to partner Matt Scott in Scotland's new look young backline this November. Jonny Gray and Chris Fusaro are two forwards that have big potentials, but with Jim Hamilton, Richie Gray and Ali Kellock ahead of Gray, and Denton, Barclay, Harley, Beattie and Brown ahead of Fusaro, Bennett is the player most likely to begin to show the watching world his talent.

2. Santiago Cordero (Argentina)

20 year old Pablo Matera made his Argentinian debut in this year's Rugby Championship and was one of the team's shining lights and looks set to take Europe by storm. This November it could be the turn of another Argentine magician. Santiago Cordero has been one of the highlights of the JWC for the past two years. An eye for space, and dazzling footwork, Cordero looks set to torment Italy

3. Camille Lopez (France)

France haven't had a world class outhalf since Christophe Lamaison. This hasn't necessarily been a problem, given France's history of using scrumhalves to dictate a game, and their bizarre non-selection of Francois Trinh-Duc, yet Camille Lopez seems to have been developing nicely in Perpignan and looks sets to be the French outhalf for the next few years. At 24 years old, he is 5 years younger than the only other outhalf in the squad Remi Tailles, who is himself also rather inexperienced.

4. Jack McGrath (Ireland)

Jack McGrath on the rampage. Photograph: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile/Corbis

Is it surprising that the only forward on this list has no highlight video on youtube? But you can bet it's only a matter of time before this rampaging forward gets his own tribute video of some big hits, strong carries, great finishes and demolishing scrums. With Dave Kilcoyne not in the Irish squad, McGrath has turned into the favourite to be backup to Cian Healy at loosehead, and with Joe Schmidt this means that McGrath will be getting at least 20 minutes against some top scrummaging foes in Samoa (Census and James Johnston) or New Zealand. That he wasn't released back to Leinster this weekend is a good sign that McGrath will make his debut this November.

5. Charles Piutau (New Zealand)

New Zealand are very particular in developing their players for international selection, with most getting their first significant bit of game time on their northern tours. Charles Piutau has honed his skills for the New Zealand Sevens, and subsequently shone for the Blues from full-back. Like so many before him, he is a special player that the crowd audibly gets excited whenever he gets the ball. His pace and skill were a big reason why the Blues had such a good year last season.

Since then, a man named Israel Dagg has stood in his way in the national side, with Piutau making substitute appearances, usually on the wing. This is very similiar to how Israel Dagg was introduced to the national set-up with Mils Muliania in the way. Piutau starts on the wing this weekend, and this won't be his last start of November. I'm expecting him to shine both from full back, and from the wing.

6. Marland Yarde (England)

Every week another English superstar reveals itself. According to the English media and Sky anyway. What makes Marland Yarde so different? Well, Heir apparents as announced by those inflicted with Sky-itis don't always make their national side. Usually the English selectors have better sense and allow them to flop in the Premiership first. But this apparent superstars definitely don't make the English side this quickly. Especially when former "heir apparents" like Charlie Sharples and Christian Wade are still waiting for their turn. 

What is clear, is that Yarde is a big strong powerful runner, who is extremely difficult to put down, and he uses his pumping legs to consistently get over the gain line. He's also got a bit of pace, but seems to have defensive deficiencies which even the crowd at Sky are worried about. Maybe this heralded "next England hope" will have a chance to shine.

ITM Cup For Beginners: Finals Review

This weekend will bring a close to a wonderful season of domestic rugby in New Zealand. All sides in this competition produced some fabulous running rugby with a high standard of skill from all players. And now all that's left to be decided is who will be promoted to the Premiership, and who will claim the Premiership crown

Championship Final:

Tasman Makos 26 v 25 Hawke's Bay, Friday 25th October 7.35am

Tasman:

1.Tim Perry, 2.Quentin MacDonald, 3. Sila Puafisi, 4.Alex Ainley, 5.Joe Wheeler, 6.Gary Redmond, 7.Shane Christie (captain), 8.Liam Squire, 9.Billy Guyton, 10.Marty Banks, 11.Mitchell Scott, 12.Tom Marshall, 13.Kieron Fonotia, 14.Bryce Heem, 15.James Lowe.
Reserves: 16.Francis Smith, 17.Siua Halanukonuka, 18.Tevita Cavubati, 19.Vernon Fredericks, 20.Mark Swanepoel, 21.Andy Symons, 22.Robbie Malneek.

Hawke's Bay:

1.Max Lahiff, 2.Ash Dixon, 3.Brendon Edmonds, 4.Michael Allardice, 5.Mark Abbott, 6.Mike Coman (c), 7.Brednon O'Connor, 8.Karl Lowe, 9.Alby Mathewson, 10.Ihaia West, 11.Penikolo Latu, 12.Andrew Horrell, 13.Richard Buckman, 14.Telusa Veainu, 15.Zac Guildford.

Reserves: 16.Ged Robinson, 17.Adrian Barone, 18.Trent Bosswell-Wakefield, 19.Tony Lamborn, 20.Chris Eaton, 21.Adam Bradey, 22.Michael Vuicakau.

Review

Tasman celebrate. Credit: Alden Williams

What a game. Everything anyone would want from a final. The skills levels were exceptional, and physicality was moan inducing and this was a very tight contest that went down to the wire.

Hawke's Bay started the brighter, forced a fantastic turnover, before Ihaia West put Zac Guildford over for a 3rd minute try. Tasman were stunned, and somehow pulled a try back to level matters, but Hawke's Bay were in control. A further penalty from West put them back ahead.

From there, Tasman started making inroads, with James Lowe coming to the fore. Two penalties from Banks put them 13-10 ahead with 10 minutes left before half time. James Lowe then sparked some magic, first with an initial break from his own half after a wonderful Shane Christie offload, and then after a quick throw from Quentin McDonald, Lowe was able to draw the last man and send Liam Squire over for his 7th try of the year.

Back came Hawke's Bay, and a period of concerted pressure on the Tasman line ended with referee Glen Jackson giving the magpies an attacking penalty on the Tasman 5m line. The exciting Ihaia West who was enjoying a fine game saw a massive numerical advantage and took the quick tap. The entire Tasman defense were caught unawares except Marty Banks, who intercepted on his own 5m line and ran in the try from 95 metres. Tasman lead at the break 23-10.

Hawke's Bay were determined to get back, and were camped in the Tasman half for the first 10 minutes of the second half without any joy. Ihaia West had missed 3 kicks at goal, and Hawke's Bay were now turning down kicking opportunities to go for a try that would put them back in the game. Eventually openside flanker Brendon O'Connor barged over to make a game of it at 23-17, before a Marty Banks put the scores out to 26-17 with a long range penalty.

Ihaia West finally nailed a kick with 5 minutes left, leading to a frantic final minutes. The game was end to end, with Hawke's Bay going close a few times before being penalised in Tasman's 22. Eventually, Brendon O'Connor turned over a ball in his own 22, setting Hawke's Bay up for one last attempt. A break from Trent Bosswell-Wakefield and some brilliant support work from Brendon O'Connor put sub scrumhalf Chris Eaton over in the corner.

Ihaia West, the 21 year old who has already missed 3 kicks, had a very difficult touchline conversion to win it with the last play of the game, but was unable to , giving Tasman a win that they deserved given their performances overall.

Preview

Tasman have been the undoubted best team in the Premiership, and Hawke's Bay have been the best of the rest, so it's no doubting that both these teams deserve to be here.

Tasman have named a strong team, with Super Rugby experience complimenting exciting prospects throughout the team. Tim Perry and Quentin MacDonald bring Super Rugby experience with the Blues to Sila Puafisi's 5 Tongan caps. Joe Wheeler and Alex Ainley are honest workhorses in the second row, while Liam Squire is Tasman's top try scorer from No.8, and his form, along with Shane Christie's has earned them their first Super Rugby contracts, 22 year old Squire with the Cheifs, and 28 year old Christie with the Highlanders. Liam Squire is the beautiful combination of beastly power with lethal pace, and a deceptive step, as shown by his try against Southland in the semi final. 

Marty Banks has had a remarkable rise so far. Photo: Photosport

Marty Banks has been the talk of the Tasman team, being a reliable goalkicker, and his form has also earned him his first Super Rugby contract with the Hurricanes. 24 year old Banks has had a roundabout way to get to this stage, going to play rugby in Russia, before impressing with Buller in the Heartland Championship and earning a spot in Tasman's extended squad for this year's ITM Cup. Banks has taken every opportunity with both hands to get here, and is a message to every potential youngster out there to keep working.

Tom Marshall continued his outstanding form with the Crusaders to guide Banks, while James Lowe has in been the star of the team in my opinion. Lowe's pace and vision has created countless opportunities, while Tasman undoubtedly play their offloading game with much higher pace and accuracy whenever Tom Marshall is on the field. If they are in the mood, Hawke's Bay will not be able to keep up.

The Magpies also have considerable Super experience, with Max Lahiff of the Rebels and Ash Dixon of the Hurricanes in the front row, and Brendon O'Connor and Karl Lowe in the back row providing much of their leadership. If things start to go Hawke's Bay's way. The talents of Alby Mathewson, Andrew Horrell Telusa Veainu and Zac Guildford will be itching to punish Tasman at any cost.

Ihaia West has been outstanding this year and will have many offers to play Super Rugby next year.
Photo: Graham Palmer

Ihaia West is one of Hawke's Bays best prospects, and arguably their player of the year this year. Recently called up to the Maori side, this gingerhaired wizard has created quite a buzz back in New Zealand with a dummy, a left-foot step, a startling burst of speed and a crowd pleasing dive, West set himself apart as a player capable of rare brilliance on the big stage. West's individual matchwinning try was a joy to behold in the semi final. New Zealanders are now asking "Who is this red-headed Maori kid? How good is he? And will he playing Super Rugby next year?" If you haven't heard of him yet, you will soon. 

His similarities with Quade Cooper don't just end with his dancing feet an speed, but like Cooper, his defense isn't good enough for coaches to have him defending on the front line, and he often finds himself defending from the fullback position where he can do damage on the counter attack.

The previous match between these two this season was a narrow victory for Tasman, 18-9. I think Tasman will be too strong again, but it'll be a much higher scoring game. Tasman by 10.

Premiership Final:

Wellington Lions 13 v  29 Canterbury, Saturday 26th October 7.35am

Wellington:

15. Charlie Ngatai, 14. Matt Proctor, 13. Tim Bateman, 12. Shaun Treeby, 11. Alapati Leiua, 10. Lima Sopoaga, 9. Frae Wilson, 8. Victor Vito (capt), 7. Ardie Savea, 6. Brad Shields, 5. Api Naikatini, 4. Mark Reddish, 3. Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 2. Motu Matu'u, 1. John Schwalger.

Reserves: 16. Reggie Goodes, 17. Eric Sione, 18. Kaipati Gaualofa, 19. Faifili Levave, 20.Adam Hill, 21. Tomasi Palu, 22.Joe Hill

Canterbury:

1. Joe Moody, 2. Ben Funnell, 3. Nepo Laulala, 4. Joel Everson, 5. Luke Katene, 6. Luke Whitelock, 7. George Whitelock (c), 8. Nasi Manu, 9. Andy Ellis, 10. Tyler Bleyendaal, 11. Johnny McNicholl, 12. Ryan Crotty, 13. Adam Whitelock, 14. Patrick Osborne, 15. Tom Taylor.
Reserves: 16. Marcel Cummings-Toone, 17. Paea Fa'anunu, 18. Dominic Bird, 19. Jordan Taufua, 20. Willi Heinz, 21. Rob Thompson, 22. Colin Slade.

Review

A game that had so much billing and lots of potential was nearly ruined by the conditions. The wind meant that there wasn't as many offloads as one would have hoped as teams decided to play territorially, but there was still an impressive amount of ball handling skills and a limited number of mistakes. Hookers did extremely well not to have as many crooked throws as there could have been, and passes that left the hands going backwards often ended up a few metres in front.

Nevertheless, there was a hell of a game played, and Canterbury got off to a great start after Patrick Osborne punished a poor kick from Frae Wilson from a scrum to gift a try to Andy Ellis. Canterbury were unable to regather the resulting kickoff, and Lima Sopoaga got Wellington off the mark with a wonderfully struck penalty in the conditions.

Wellington started to get on top, and were pushing the line for minutes before Lima Sopoaga spotted a gap to put his side in front 10-7 at the break.

George Whitelock lifts Canterbury's 6th title in 6 years.
Source: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images AsiaPac

That was as good as it got for Wellington, who have lost 6 finals since their last win in 2000. Canterbury dominated the second half, playing a smart territory game, and controlling possession. George Whitelock had a fantastic game and kept Ardie Savea unusually quiet. Canterbury had two tries disallowed before Ryan Crotty went over in the corner after the entire Wellington team were attracted to a ruck on the opposite side of the pitch. Sopoaga was able to keep Wellington within 7 points with a penalty, but a fortutiously awared try in the last few minutes from George Whitelock ended the game as a contest with Canterbury winning their 6th in a row.

Preview

Canterbury have a huge test ahead of them if they want to win the Premiership title for the 6th time in a row on Saturday. Wellington have been by far the best team in the competition and don't look like they will be stopped. Wellington will feel they have a point to prove after only having 6 players in Steve Hansens touring squad, while Canterbury have double that number with 12 representatives.

Shaun Treeby has been outstanding in midfield for Wellington this year, and the pace and power of Leiua and Proctor will case Osborne and McNicholl all sorts of problems.

Motu Matu'u is a hard hitting hooker, and Toomaga-Allen will look to dominate the scrum against new All Black Joe Moody.

Ardie Savea is a star in the making and will look to prove that in the final.
Photo: CHRIS SKELTON/Fairfax NZ

New All Black squad member, Luke Whitelock will have a deadly backrow to contend with, all of whom will feel they should have been picked ahead of the 22 year old. The battle of the back rows will be key for this game, and George Whitelock will have to contend with Ardie Savea, who has the pace of a winger, power of a number 8 and the hands of a centre, but is deadly at the breakdown.

Tom Taylor and Ryan Crotty will give Canterbury some direction, while Andy Ellis will control the game from the base. Ellis has been in fine form, and is unfortunate that he is a couple of years older than the current New Zealand scrum halves, none of which have the control of a game that Ellis displays.

Tyler Bleyendaal is showing Canterbury and Crusader fans that their might be life after Dan Carter. Photo: radiosport

The player I've been most impressive with this season is outhalf Tyler Bleyendaal. He has the game management of a Ronan O'Gara, and the eye of a gap like Ian Madigan. This 22 year old is sure to get some opportunities for the Crusaders next year with Dan Carter's sabbatical and Colin Slade's injury history. Another outstanding talent to watch.

Canterbury may be coming into form at the business end of the season like usual, and while experience usually counts, I can't see anyone stopping the Wellington train that's been rolling over teams so far. One thing is for sure. This is one game of the weekend not to miss.

Currie Cup For Beginners: Final Preview

It's been eleven long weeks, and just as the Rugby Championship finishes, the showpiece of South African rugby is on this weekend. In a repeat of last year's final, Western Province will be defending their crown against the Natal Sharks. A host of returning Springboks should mean that this game has the potential to capture the imagination in the way that New Zealand and South Africa did in that memorable test match in Ellis Park three weeks ago.

Unlike last year, Western Province come into this game as heavy favourites, and will be hoping not to choke with that tag like the Sharks did. The tag of favourites is certainly justified having gone the season unbeaten, with the only blots being two draws against the Golden Lions and the Blue Bulls.

The two games between these sides were one score affairs, with late scores for the Sharks putting a shine to their performance in a dismal 25-19 loss to WP in Round 5 in Newlands, while it was a much tighter affair in the return game in Round 10, with Demetri Catrikilis late penalty giving Province a slight bit of breathing space in the final minutes. Round 10 marked the initial return of the international players, and the Sharks can improve again as further international stars like Patrick Lambie didn't feature as heavily.

Munster eyes will be on Gerhard van den Heever, playing his last game before moving. Photo RugbyRedefined

Irish eyes will be on Gerhard van den Heever, who will be playing his final game in South Africa before joining up with the Munster squad. He's had a good Currie Cup campaign, as demonstrated by his start in the final, but a return of only one try in the competition won't be setting pulses racing in the same manner as his youtube highlights.

Van den Heever is part of an exciting backline featuring the in form Gio Aplon, chasing a return to Springbok colours, and the talented Cheslin Kolbe, who was the star of the South African Under 20 side this year. Kolbe is one name to keep an eye on, as he will be featuring in debates on World XVs in a number of years time.

In the centres, Jean de Villiers moves out to outside centre to accomodate 21 year old Damian de Allende, who is enjoying his breakout season, and looks set to offer more in coming seasons in Super Rugby and beyond. His form is good enough to keep Juan de Jongh on the bench. Demetri Catrakilis is building on an impressive Super Rugby debut season for the Kings, and has managed to continue his form with Western Province, and will be partnering 23 year old halfback Louis Schreuder.

The pack has plenty of youthful experience, with Pat Cilliers and Steven Kitchoff both young props with South African caps, joined by 22 year old hooker Scarra Ntubeni, while returning Springbok Eben Etzebeth joins DeKock Steenkamp in a formidable second row partnership that will look to dominate the lineout and get through a mountain of dirty work. It will be left to Duane Vermuleun, in the form of his life, and Siya Kolisi to provide the ball carrying, while Deon Fourie will continue his fast growing reputation as one of South Africa's best poachers.

Strength in reinforcements will be provided by  Frans Malherbe, Brok Harris, Michael Rhodes, Schalk Burger, Nic Groom, Kurt Coleman and Juan de Jongh in what looks a strong, experienced and surprising youthful Western Province team. Schalk Burger is slowly making his comeback after injury hell for the former IRB Player of the Year in the last two years.

They might need it, as the Sharks have named close to their strongest possible team. Jean Deysel has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, so Willem Alberts replaces him. Not a bad replacement in the current South African blindside to bring in?

It'll be an all Springbok front row with Tendai Mtawarira, and the du Plessis brothers after Bismarck was somehow cleared of any suspension for stamping





22 year old Piet Marais and the impressive Pieter-Steph du Toit will be packing down in the second row, with Alberts, Daniels and Marcell Coetzee making up an impressive back row.

Patrick Lambie finally gets a start after being on the bench for so long for South Africa, and his fitness will be interesting to watch, he'll be partnered by the experience Charl McLeod while the youngster Cobus Reinach, who impressed many in Super Rugby is on the bench. Frans Steyn makes a return in the inside centre position, and will be partnered by Louis Ludik, while the Sharks back three has a mixture of pace and power with Odwa Ndungane, Lwazi Mvovo and SP Marias, the 24 year old from the Kings.

This game is clear to be a forward orientated battle, and will be an absorbing contest with two enormous packs battling it out. Sharks probably have edge in the scrum, but Eben Etzebeth is likely to rule the skies with his quick leap. The battle of the backrows will be fascinating with a mini Springbok audition between Marcel Coetzee and Siya Kolisi, in particular set to excite. A big performance from Catrakilis might interest Springbok selectors too, while out wide it'll be the skill and speed of Kolbe and Aplon against the raw power and pace of Mvovo and Ndungane. Sure to be an enthralling contest.

Western Province by 5.

Sink or Swim?

Let me tell you a story of two scrumhalves. They were born not 40 miles from each other, a year apart. Both started on their Junior World Cup teams. Both starred as their teams created huge shocks in beating the mighty baby Boks; and this season, both are first choice for their team, and started and starred in both Heineken Cup games. The only difference between them is that one was included in his country's squad for the November internationals, while the other wasn't.

Why am I telling you this? Well, it all started over a month ago, when Joe Schmidt originally announced his 41 man squad for a training camp. These series of tweets from Nigel Pearson (@SplottBoy) got me thinking about how young players are given more of a chance in Wales than in Ireland. This week's announcements of squads for the end of year tests emphasised this point with the two scrumhalves.

@BHHooker As a Welsh fan I'm pleased that Ireland are overlooking JJ Hanrahan & Luke McGrath.
— Nigel Pearson (@SplottBoy) September 17, 2013

@BHHooker Cheers - I think Wales/Gats wld have fast tracked players as talented as JJ & McGrath. 'Different strokes for different folks'.
— Nigel Pearson (@SplottBoy) September 17, 2013

And if you haven't guessed already, the scrumhalves are Rhodri Williams and Kieran Marmion.

Should players be thrown in the deep end?

Well, Ireland don't seem to expose young players to the international arena, a point highlighted by the fact that one of the uncapped players in the Irish squad named this week is 32 year old spring chicken, James Coughlan.

But it does seem to be how they do it in Wales, and a look at two current British and Irish Lions in their squad, George North and Leigh Halfpenny suggest this. Both capped at just 19 years of age, George North made a huge impact from the beginning, scoring two tries on his debut against South Africa, prompting Bryan Habana to say that Wales had found a real gem; "George looks good enough and mature enough to become one of the greats," said Habana. "You don't say that lightly, but he's laid a great foundation and played a lot better than any 18-year-old I've seen."

Tom Prydie is one of the examples of harming a players career by exposing them too soon. Photo Getty Images

While North and Halfpenny are clear success stories of throwing youngsters into the deep end, it hasn't always worked for the Welsh. Remember Tom Prydie? It's nothing to be embarrassed about if you don't. Having just turned 18, Tom Prydie made his senior Welsh debut against Italy in Wales's final game of the 2010 6 Nations. To give you a hint at how his career has gone since then, he made his debut for Wales Under 20s a full two years later. In total, he has 3 Wales senior caps, but at the grand old age of 21, he still has time (and lots of it).

Another approach is the new scheme that New Zealand are incorporating. In naming their squad for their Northern tour, Ardie Savea, and uncapped 20 year old with enormous potential, was named as a "non-playing apprentice". The idea is that Savea will get used to how things are done in the New Zealand camp, learn from their coaches and senior players, so that he feels comfortable in that environment before he's pushed too soon.

New Zealand are also very good at telling under-performing players to work on their game in specific ways. In 2010, 21 year old Aaron Cruden made his debut for New Zealand. Despite showcasing his incredible offloading skills and attacking flair, the New Zealand management decided that he didn't have enough game management and that he needed to work on his kicking. Sent to work on this in the ITM Cup, Cruden spent a season away from the national setup improving himself and came back a better player, and has established himself as arguably the second best outhalf in world rugby.

The same thing has happened with Piri Weepu, who needed to work on his speed and fitness, with Liam Messam, who needed to work on his work ethic and work in the tight, and that is why Victor Vito is in the form of his career with Wellington in the ITM Cup, because he's been told to work on his game. In New Zealand, they have the trust to know that when they are told to improve, they have time to work on their game and be able to come back and be selected for their national side.

A look at other nations will see that Italy dropped Andrea Masi in the deep end in 1999 as a 19 year old, but it was only 2008 when he really started to show what he was capable of. France are currently picking 19 year old Gael Fickou, but neglecting to choose the other 19 year old Christopher Tolofua, Scotland have recently selected exciting 20 year old Mark Bennett and 19 year old lock Jonny Gray.

England have had a mixed bag of it too, from Matthew Tait's mediocre career, to Owen Farrell being nominated for the IRB Player of the Year in 2012, aged just 21. The biggest case of where exposure of young players to worldwide fame is bad is Danny Cipriani. Tempted by all the vices that come with being famous, one too many bar fights, boozy nights and the glamour of a model girlfriend has proved to much for Cipriani, who has faded into obscurity, at just 25.

Another player on the verge of wasting huge talent is James O'Connor. Part of the trio of outrageous talented by troubled Australian stars of Quade Cooper and Kurtley Beale, O'Connor was only 18 when he made his Australia debut. 44 caps later, he's shown too many his obvious talent, and to others he's been involved in missed team meetings, bust ups and recently being too drunk to board a flight at an airport. At just 23, James O'Connor still has time to resurrect his career.

Gordon D'Arcy would never have become an Irish legend were it not his friends setting him straight. Photo: Inpho

Just ask Gordon D'Arcy. In May 1998, D'Arcy was a talented full-back just finished with the Senior Cup for the last time with Clongowes, and preparing for his Leaving Cert that June. Then, the then coach Warren Gatland surprised many by calling him up for the summer tour to South Africa. D'Arcy declined so he could do his Leaving Cert, and did get his first cap later that year against Romania. The world was at D'Arcy's feet, and he looked set for a full and long career as Ireland's saviour. He was even touted as a bigger prospect than Jonny Wilkinson and Brian O'Driscoll.

And then he nearly blew it. Just two years after declining the call up that would have meant he missed his Leaving Cert, the Irish centre was a mess. Twice he turned up at Leinster training sessions with enough evidence of the night before for club officials to want him sent packing. He had made the Ireland 1999 World Cup squad, but was nothing more than a spectator. From there, things only got worse. So much worse in fact, that he didn't make the 2003 World Cup squad. Worse, it wasn't a story. He had pretty much slipped off the monitor. Matt Williams was his coach at Leinster at the time "There were people who wanted to throw him out. I had to fight hard to get him a contract."

After he vanished off the international radar, it took until friends took him aside and gave him "the best advice I have ever had . . . sending me down the right path for a change".

The change was that he was named the 2004 6 Nations Player of the Tournament, became a British and Irish Lion, and the rest is history. He may have made his debut a few months before O'Driscoll, but that's why he's 50 caps behind him. In fact, when O'Driscoll was getting his 50th cap, D'Arcy earned his 10th in the same game.

So complete was the turnaround in D'Arcy's fortunes after being thrust into stardom overnight, that it was suggested in media circles that he could help another troubled star when the an early dramatic announcement on the international stage threatened to blow his career.

This troubled star debuted for his country at an early age. A game winning performance in a Six Nations game catapulted him to wider recognition, but his relationship with his high profile girlfriend started to raise questions about his attitude. Further drunken antics and fights with teammates were the beginning of his fall from grace. Since then, he's jumped from team to team, while his antics have continued, dashing any hopes of him fulfilling his promise.

I could have been talking about many players there, and if you had said Danny Cipriani, you would have been wrong.

In 2005, Gavin Henson had the world at his feet. Just like D'Arcy he wasn't in Wales's next World Cup squad, but managed to fight his way back for a Grand Slam. From there, his career effectively ended. If only he had D'Arcy's friends to have set him on the right path. Henson was the 2001 IRB Junior Player of The Year, and never got to fulfil his talent after being released into fame at too young an age. 

The Junior World Cup is a fantastic tournament for breeding young players, from Henson back in 2001, to more current superstars like Eben Etzebeth. Etzebeth was only 20 when he made his debut last year, but already he's become a world class second row. South Africa aren't afraid of letting their youngsters have a chance, as 2012 Junior Player of the Year Jan Serfontein can prove. Exactly one year after winning that award he had made is full debut for South Africa.

And what of one of the players Serfontein beat to win the award? JJ Hanrahan did what no Irish player has done before or since, and that was be nominated for the Young Player of the Year award when Serfontein won it. Nine Springboks caps later for Serfontein, and Hanrahan is only just breaking into the Munster squad, and an Ireland cap seems a few years away yet.

Ireland haven't always been this slow bringing players through, which D'Arcy and O'Driscoll can attest too. More recently, Luke Fitzgerald and Keith Earls have been fast tracked into the national set up, to varying degrees of success.

So which is better? Should you expose young talent to the harsh world of international rugby and let their talent speak for themselves and blossom like George North, or will the spotlight be too much, and lead to off field problems and a downward spiral?

Ultimately, it's all down to the mental strength of the player in question. But I think there are things that a coach can do. The current New Zealand model of easing a player into the setup, before allowing them a small number of substitute appearances in meaningless games, before gradually trusting them with starts and important games. If at any stage the player doesn't fulfil expectations, time spent with their province working on specific aspects of their game while knowing that another call up isn't far away seems to get the best out of each player. This also develops trust while building a squad, which is what Ireland needs for any competition that they hope to win.

Time will tell if the scrumhalves mentioned earlier will go fulfil their potential or go by the wayside.

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.