Super Rugby 2014

Your FREE guide to the 2014 Super RUGBY season

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SUPE R RUGBY 2014

Super RUGBY contents Welcome to your FREE guide to the 2014 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY season.

BRAINS TRUST: Chiefs coaches, left to right: Wayne Smith, Andrew Strawbridge, Tom Coventry and Dave Rennie with the Super Rugby Trophy after defeating the Brumbies 27–22 in last year’s final.

INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW ..............................

BLUES ..........................................................................................

CRUSADERS .............................................................................

CHIEFS ........................................................................................

HIGHLANDERS........................................................................

HURRICANES ...........................................................................

2014 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY DRAW ............................

ARRIVALS and DEPARTURES .............................................

4 6 9 10–11 12–13 14 16–17 18, 21

Managing Editor: Oliver Lee

AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE: BRUMBIES / REDS / WARATAHS ..........................................

REBELS / WESTERN FORCE .....................................................

SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE: BULLS / CHEETAHS / STORMERS ..........................................

SHARKS / LIONS............................................................................

NZRU: FUTURE STARS ARE COMING ..................................

SUPER RUGBY QUIZ ....................................................................

22 23 24 26 28 30

Publisher:

Editor: Peter White Proofreading: Elise McDowell Photography: photosport.co.nz Production: ONTIME Associates Printing: Webstar Masterton

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COPYRIGHT: Reproduction in whole or in part by any means is prohibited. DISCLAIMER: The opinions expressed in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Although all material is checked for accuracy, no liability is assumed by the publisher for any loss due to use of material in this magazine.

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Super RUGBY 2014

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Super RUGBY 2014

2014 SEASON

Super RUGBY preview The Chiefs have won back-to-back Super Rugby titles but can they win three in a row?

The Crusaders have not won since 2008 — is it their time again? Welcome to the new INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY season.

WINNING FEELING: The Chiefs celebrate after beating the Brumbies in last year’s final.

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HE RUGBY LANDSCAPE has definitely changed in New Zealand over the last two years with the Chiefs winning repeat Super Rugby titles.

Before that, the Crusaders and the Blues were our only title winners, with hope always springing eternal at the Highlanders and Hurricanes without any joy.

Now, we face the very real prospect of the Chiefs winning three consecutive titles, which has only been achieved once before by the mighty Crusaders who did it from 1998 to 2000. What gives the Chiefs so much hope is how well head coach Dave Rennie and his canny management team has recruited.

They have kept together most of last year’s finely tuned squad and added an array of depth most franchises can only dream about. Back from Japan are former All Blacks Mils Muliaina and Kane Thompson, while Tom Marshall and Robbie Fruean have moved north to Hamilton from the Crusaders.

The selection of winger James Lowe is a superb indictment on the quality of the ITM Cup, as he has played just one season with Tasman. It shows what a shop window that competition is and Lowe’s selection is something for every other young, ambitious provincial player to aspire to.

The Crusaders are always a chance in this competition but they will be without Dan Carter this campaign.

Will Tyler Bleyendaal claim the jersey or Colin Slade?

Is coach Todd Blackadder under pressure to bring home the trophy?

The Blues have recruited some experienced All Blacks in Ma’a Nonu and Tony Woodcock. They did not settle at the Highlanders so will they in the City of Sails? Time will tell but one player set to illuminate Eden Park is Benji Marshall, who Blues coach Sir John Kirwan likes the look of at No.10. Marshall has fitted in seamlessly since his high profile switch from rugby league and if anyone can make it from there, then Marshall can.

Super RUGBY 2014

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This year could be the Hurricanes time to finally step up and challenge for the title, and with a settled squad, hopes are high in the capital city. They have the super talented Ardie Savea and Victor Vito in the loose forwards, plus one of the most dangerous attacking backlines around. The Highlanders have new leaders in Ben Smith and Nasi Manu, the best stadium and more depth than last year, so they could well be the upset kings of 2014.

Over the Tasman Sea, the lack of playing depth in Australia is plain to see with the Brumbies and Reds the most likely to be serious contenders. The recruitment of eight South Africans has certainly stiffened the strength of the Western Force, who will be tough to roll at home in Perth.

In South Africa, the Sharks under new coach Jake White could well surprise this year and certainly the transformation he made with the Brumbies in two years was remarkable. The Cheetahs were last year’s big surprise, playing a dynamic style of attacking rugby that made them one of the most popular teams to watch in the competition. Last year’s conference leaders the Bulls may struggle to reach their past peak performances but they do have Victor Matfield out of retirement as a player/coach.

The return of Springboks hard man Schalk Burger after an 18 month absence to join forces with captain Jean de Villiers will undoubtedly be a major boost to the Stormers, but they have the toughest draw of all.

The Lions return to replace the Southern Kings but lack enough experience and depth to keep away from the wooden spoon.

A feature of the 2014 Super Rugby season is the return of some great players to add spice and quality to the playing rosters. Joining Burger, Muliaina and Thompson are two world class flankers in Jerome Kaino and David Pocock. Kaino is back with the Blues after a stint in Japan and will relish the challenge to oust Steven Luatua from the No.6 jersey, while Pocock should give the Brumbies an advantage at the tackle ball area.

Let’s bring on the new season — it should be a classic!

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Journey into the unknown Sir John Kirwan knows his team has to deliver in 2014 after the disappointments of the last campaign. His squad looks better balanced and should be competitive throughout.

Website: www.theblues.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketmaster.co.nz Phone 0800 111 999

AST YEAR: 10th place. With new coach Sir John Kirwan at the helm, the 2013 season started so well with two wins, before the Blues lost three straight. But after round 13 they were in fifth place before the wheels fell off and the Blues lost their last six games as injuries decimated the squad.

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Contact: The Blues Ltd Partnership PO Box 77 012 Mt Albert Auckland 1350

Luck of the Draw: The draw is a big help to the Blues’ chances of a good start. They are in Dunedin against the Highlanders to start then two epic encounters against the Crusaders and Bulls at Eden Park. The trip to South Africa has them against the perennially weak Lions and Cheetahs.

Phone: 09 846 5425

Campaign Preview: Coach Sir John Kirwan has been typically upfront about his team’s prospects and says it is basically play-offs or bust this year. He arrived too late to put his personal mark on the playing roster last year so has made some changes to get more experienced players in.

BIG CHANCE: All Black Ma’a Nonu returns to the Blues backline after a season with the Highlanders.

“It is a famous saying but we are looking good on paper. It is a matter of making sure we are putting all those parts together and perform week in and week out,” says Kirwan.

“Looking back on last year I got here late and the team was very inexperienced. What I have tried to do is put a little bit more balance. If you can put a team in there that is competitive every week then we have a really good chance. So for me it is just making sure everyone steps up, including our younger guys.

“It is really exciting having Benji (Marshall) in there.

He brings a different dimension. It is great having Ma’a (Nonu) and Woody (Tony Woodcock) back, Jerome Kaino will be back from Japan, so it is an exciting time for me.

“It is a really tough tournament so we need to make sure we live up to those expectations.”

Only four players in the 32-man squad have yet to pull on the Blues jersey — promising Auckland lock Patrick Tuipulotu, experienced campaigners Tom Donnelly and Hayden Triggs, and star rugby league recruit Marshall.

“Tom is a great reader of the lineouts, he’s been around the traps a wee bit and he’s relishing a new challenge. He’ll really add to our locking intelligence which is what we need,” says Kirwan.

Super RUGBY 2014

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“I think the whole country is excited about someone like Patrick Tuipulotu. He’s been in the New Zealand Under-20s, was a big contributor there and before getting injured during the ITM Cup we saw what he could do on that stage. He’s a new kid on the block but he’s also ready physically and hopefully mentally he’ll step straight up and put some pressure on the other guys.”

Both Pita Ahki and Lolagi Visinia have graduated from the wider training group to join the main squad in 2014, paving the way for an exciting new crop of players such as Tevita Li, Simon Hickey and Tom Murday to join the extended squad.

After briefly leading the Blues in 2012 in the absence of Keven Mealamu, Luke Braid has been named captain of the side for 2014.

The Blues lost experienced lock Culum Retallick before the season started with a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) in his right knee. Former Maori All Black Hayden Triggs replaces him.

Who’s New: Forwards: Sam Prattley, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Tony Woodcock, Tom Donnelly, Patrick Tuipulotu, Jerome Kaino, Hayden Triggs. Backs: Pita Ahki, Ma’a Nonu, Benji Marshall, Lolagi Visinia.

Who’s Through: Forwards: Ronald Raaymakers, Anthony Boric, Culum Retallick (injury), Ali Williams, Tim Perry, Quentin MacDonald. Backs: Waisake Naholo, Rene Ranger, Marty McKenzie, Malakai Fekitoa.

Likely Finish: Fifth place. Coach Kirwan has some real mana about him and no little rugby nous so expect to see a big lift from his players and a more consistent Blues outfit this campaign. The return of Kaino and Woodcock will stiffen an already useful pack and if Nonu can fire in midfield — look out.

BLUES SQUAD Forwards: Tom McCartney, Keven Mealamu, James Parsons, Charlie Faumuina, Sam Prattley, Angus Ta’avao, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Tony Woodcock, Tom Donnelly, Liaki Moli, Hayden Triggs, Patrick Tuipulotu, Kane Barrett, Luke Braid, Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua, Brendon O’Connor, Peter Saili.

Backs: Jamison Gibson-Park, Bryn Hall, Piri Weepu, Baden Kerr, Chris Noakes, Pita Ahki, Ma’a Nonu, Francis Saili, Jackson Willison, Frank Halai, Benji Marshall, George Moala, Charles Piutau, Lolagi Visinia.

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Desperate for another title The Crusaders are almost impossible to beat at home, but do they have the ability to win the big games away from home without Dan Carter?

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HE CRUSADERS had their usual slow start to the 2013 campaign, losing to both the Blues and Hurricanes in the opening two games, away from home. Further away losses to the Sharks and Force hurt their chances of a crucial home semi-final.

Luck of the Draw: The Crusaders get underway with two classic top-quality local derbies. First up, they host the defending champions the Chiefs before travelling to Eden Park for a showdown with the Blues. The South African away games are against the Lions and Cheetahs.

Campaign Preview: The Crusaders are the most successful franchise in Super Rugby history with seven titles to their name. But the last was back in 2008 and the pressure is mounting with each passing year for the team to claim their eighth title.

Coach Todd Blackadder is used to dealing with the pressure as a former Crusaders captain and he guided his team to the semi-finals last year, where they ran into the rampant Chiefs.

This year he is without the mercurial Dan Carter, and outstanding midfielders Tom Marshall and Robbie Fruean who have moved north to the Chiefs.

Blackadder is happy with his squad that includes a returning old boy and some exciting new faces.

Injury ravaged Colin Slade is back after three years at the Highlanders where he was injured for long periods. But when fit the former All Black is a fine player and will contest the No.10 jersey with Tyler Bleyendaal.

“The experience and talent that Colin Slade adds to this group is immense,” says Blackadder.

“He’ll be a crucial member of the team, especially at first-five while Dan Carter is on extended leave, but he has the advantage of being able to play virtually anywhere in the back line.”

Tasman prop Tim Perry returns to his roots after a season with the Blues, while Blackadder has taken a real punt on 19-year-old halfback Mitchell Drummond, who captained Nelson College First XV

and was a member of the New Zealand Barbarian Secondary Schools rugby team last year.

Website: www.crusaders.co.nz

“Mitch is young, but he has natural talent, fine pedigree and the right attitude to take him far,” said Blackadder. “He will continue to benefit from working alongside our experienced halfbacks, Andy Ellis and Willi Heinz, as he did in last year’s ITM Cup. We are excited about his future.”

Tickets: www.ticketdirect.co.nz Phone 0800 224 224

Powerhouse midfielder Rey Lee-Lo joins after a stellar 2013 year for the Hurricanes and Counties Manukau but the player who might well make the most impact is Fijian winger Nemani Nadolo, who plays for NEC Green Rockets in Japan. He played for the Waratahs in 2009 and at 1.95m and nearly 130kg, he will take some stopping.

Who’s New: There are five new Crusaders in 2014. Colin Slade, returning from the Highlanders, Tasman prop Tim Perry, 19-year-old halfback Mitchell Drummond, midfielder Rey Lee-Lo and winger Nemani Nadolo from Japan.

Who’s Through: Three changes in the backline are significant. Dan Carter is on a sabbatical and both Robbie Fruean and Tom Marshall have joined the Chiefs. Forwards: Shane Christie, Tom Donnelly Backs: Dan Carter, Robbie Fruean, Tom Marshall, Jeremy Su’a.

Contact: Level 1, 5 Durham St PO Box 755 Christchurch Phone: 03 379 8300

BIG IMPROVER: Tom Taylor will have the key goalkicking role in Dan Carter’s absence.

Likely Finish: Semi-finals. There is no doubting the resilience of the Crusaders and they are nigh on unbeatable at home. But they will miss the great Dan Carter so the pressure will intensify on either Colin Slade or Tyler Bleyendaal at first-five. Likely to meet the Chiefs again in the semi-final.

CRUSADERS SQUAD Forwards: Corey Flynn, Ben Funnell, Codie Taylor, Joe Moody, Wyatt Crockett, Owen Franks, Nepo Laulala, Tim Perry, Dominic Bird, Sam Whitelock, Luke Romano, Jimmy Tupou, Matt Todd, Richie McCaw, George Whitelock, Jordan Taufua, Kieran Read, Luke Whitelock.

Backs: Andy Ellis, Willi Heinz, Mitchell Drummond, Colin Slade, Tyler Bleyendaal, Tom Taylor, Ryan Crotty, Adam Whitelock, Rey Lee-Lo, Zac Guildford, Johnny McNicholl, Nemani Nadolo, Israel Dagg.

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Champions set for three in a row The Chiefs have an even stronger squad in 2014 than in their previous two title-winning seasons so will start as favourites.

Website: www.chiefs.co.nz Tickets: 0800 4 CHIEFS (0800 224 224) or www.ticketdirect.co.nz Contact: Ruakura Research Centre East Street, Hamilton PO Box 4292 Hamilton East 3247 Phone: 07 853 0231

AST YEAR: Champions. The tactical masterminds of Dave Rennie and Wayne Smith were to the fore again last year as they guided the Chiefs to a thoroughly deserved defence of their title. They won seven of eight games and turned Waikato Stadium into a fortress.

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Luck of the Draw: The draw matters little to the best teams in the competition but the Chiefs will not be complaining. They have a tough opener against the Crusaders in Christchurch but the Highlanders and Stormers at home to follow should get them nicely underway.

Campaign Preview: The 2014 season could be when the Chiefs become a true sporting dynasty to follow the Crusaders after years of under-performing.

Coach Dave Rennie has performed a rugby miracle by turning the Chiefs into back-to-back champions and the omens are very favourable that he can win a third straight title.

He has kept the vast majority of his successful squad and made some clever signings to add to the depth.

Rennie is rightly pleased with the players they persuaded to make Hamilton home for the next few months.

“Tom (Marshall) is a hell of a signing for us. He is a quality player and he should be on an All Black tour,” Rennie said. “We are hoping Robbie (Fruean) will be ready but we are not going to push him too quickly.

He has the all clear from the cardiologist but we have some depth in midfield.

“James (Lowe) is a big man and we have a pretty small backline so he gives us a point of difference out wide.

He has played a lot at fullback so he has a good kicking game and he is pretty quick. He is a young fellah who will put a lot of pressure on the others to get a start.”

The loss of experienced co-captain Craig Clarke overseas has been covered with the return to New Zealand of Mils Muliaina and Kane Thompson from Japan.

“Bringing Kane Thompson back was important in that area. He is a very analytical lineout forward and along with Mils and Ross Filipo we have some players with some significant miles under the belt.”

Rennie has purposely picked players who are versatile and can cover more than one position in the event of the usual injury toll.

“That is crucial. We have 14 backs but eight of those guys can play in the midfield and six can play fullback so there is a lot of flexibility and you certainly need it. We found in the last couple of years we got a few injuries and that puts you under pressure so having that versatility in the group alleviates that a little bit.”

The Chiefs will be co-captained again by Liam Messam whose leadership and commanding form played a key part in the Chiefs’ success last year.

Aaron Cruden will step up to join Messam as co-captain for the campaign as the Chiefs keep the dual leader system that has worked so well.

Who’s New: Former All Blacks Mils Muliaina and Kane Thompson are back from Japan, while powerful centre Robbie Fruean (Crusaders) and prop Jamie Mackintosh (Highlanders) are excellent buys.

New to Super Rugby are wing James Lowe and No.8 Liam Squire from Tasman, and Canterbury’s English-born lock Matthew Symons. Forwards: Jamie Mackintosh, Liam Squire, Matthew Symons, Kane Thompson. Backs: Robbie Fruean, James Lowe, Mils Muliaina.

Who’s Through: Injury has meant an extended time away for hooker Hika Elliot, while Toby Smith, Richard Kahui and Craig Clarke have moved overseas.

Likely Finish: Champions. The New Zealand TAB has the Chiefs as equal favourites with the Crusaders at $4.50 but the Chiefs have more depth to their squad.

Players like Aaron Cruden and Liam Messam are in the form of their careers while the confidence in the team is sky high.

CHIEFS SQUAD Forwards: Ben Afeaki, Sam Cane, Nick Crosswell, Hikawera Elliot, Ross Filipo, Mike Fitzgerald, Josh Hohneck, Tanerau Latimer, Jamie Mackintosh, Pauliasi Manu, Rhys Marshal, Liam Messam, Brodie Retallick, Mahonri Schwalger, Liam Squire, Matthew Symons, Ben Tameifuna, Kane Thompson.

Backs: Bundee Aki, Gareth Anscombe, Aaron Cruden, Robbie Fruean, Andrew Horrell, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, James Lowe, Tom Marshall, Tim Nanai-Williams, Charlie Ngatai, Augustine Pulu, Mils Muliaina, Robbie Robinson, Asaeli Tikoirotuma

LEAD BY EXAMPLE: Liam Messam is a highly respected co-captain of the Chiefs.

Southern men could

Highlanders fans will need to accept that they are in fo regain the respect lost last campaign. A lack of experie Website: www.thehighlanders.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketdirect.co.nz or see website for details

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NEW LEADER: All Black Ben Smith will co-captain the Highlanders with Nasi Manu.

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ast year: 14th place.

Jamie Joseph’s team had high hopes of making the play-offs after top 10 finishes in the previous two years but that became a distant hope as the team suffered eight straight losses before the first of just three wins. Recruiting All Blacks Tony Woodcock and Ma’a Nonu clearly did not work.

Luck of the Draw: The Highlanders have a reasonable draw this campaign, beginning at home at their fabulous covered stadium against the Blues and away to the Chiefs. The bye comes early in round three but they do not travel to South Africa until round 11 when they will have combinations and systems well in place.

Campaign Preview: Coach Jamie Joseph needs to deliver this season, his fourth in charge, but he may struggle to get instant success with the squad he has this campaign.

But, what the Highlanders may lack in experience is more than made up for in passion and commitment, with many of the players given a professional life line by Joseph. Certainly they will be tough to beat at home.

oliverlee.co.nz Super RUGBY 2014 page 12

> EVENT TRANSPORT

ld struggle

or a tough season as their rebuilding team looks to enced internationals will hurt.

“There were a number of things that went wrong and a number of things we couldn’t control, like injuries to key players and a loss of form to key All Blacks throughout the year, that affected our team confidence and things tended to snowball from there,” he said.

“We have now selected a better balanced team with a bigger depth of players because we tended to peter out towards the end of the last two seasons.

“We have a change of leadership in our team with Ben Smith and Nasi Manu. Nasi is inspirational and a different type of leader to Andrew Hore. Then we have Chris King who has played over 100 games of Super Rugby and some new players from Otago who may be no-names in Super Rugby but Gareth Evans and TJ Ione have performed particularly well in the ITM Cup the last two seasons and have been training up really well.

“Shane Christie from Tasman, Malakai Fekitoa and Patrick Osborne have all fitted well in our team.”

Former Highlanders legend Tony Brown is a welcome addition to the coaching group, as he will take the backs allowing Joseph to concentrate on getting the forwards into shape.

Who’s New: Sevens star Kurt Baker, promising Auckland midfielder Malakai Fekitoa and Canterbury winger Patrick Osborne are excellent recruits in the backs, and Argentina tighthead prop

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Matias Diaz will beef up the front row. Forwards: Shane Christie, Matias Diaz, Gareth Evans, Tom Franklin, Kane Hames. Backs: Kurt Baker, Malakai Fekitoa, Patrick Osborne, Willie Ripia, Frae Wilson, Winston Stanley.

Who’s Through: Out go most of the experienced players from 2013 including All Blacks Andrew Hore, Ma’a Nonu and Tony Woodcock. Jamie Mackintosh will be missed on and off the field, as will classy backs Hosea Gear, Tamati Ellison and Colin Slade. Forwards: Tim Boys, Andrew Hore, Chris King, Jamie Mackintosh, Jake Paringatai, Tony Woodcock.

Backs: Tamati Ellison, Hosea Gear, Ma’a Nonu, Declan O’Donnell, Kade Poki, Colin Slade.

Likely Finish: 10th place.

The New Zealand TAB has the Highlanders at $15 to win the title and that seems about right.

They will struggle to beat the other New Zealand teams and the top Australian and South African sides, but should improve on last year’s record of just three wins.

Highlanders Squad: Forwards: Josh Bekhuis, Shane Christie, Liam Coltman, Matias Diaz, Elliot Dixon, Gareth Evans, Ma’afu Fia, Tom Franklin, Kane Hames, John Hardie, Jarrad Hoeata, TJ Ioane, Chris King, Nasi Manu, Brayden Mitchell, Joe Wheeler, Brad Thorn.

Backs: Kurt Baker, Phil Burleigh, Jason Emery, Malakai Fekitoa, Patrick Osborne, Hayden Parker, Buxton Popoali’i, Willie Ripia, Aaron Smith, Ben Smith, Lima Sopoaga, Fumiaki Tanaka, Shaun Treeby, Frae Wilson, Winston Stanley. page 13

Super RUGBY 2014

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Looking good for a top season There has always been a question mark over the Hurricanes and their ability to win the big games. This year they should be serious semi-finals contenders.

Website: www.hurricanes.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketek.co.nz Call 0800 842 538 Contact: Level 1 113 Adelaide Road Newtown, Wellington PO Box 7021 Wellington South Phone: 04 389 0020

ast Year: 11th place. On the surface it looked a disaster of a season and certainly 11th is simply not good enough for the Hurricanes.

But, there were some great moments and four straight wins had them in fifth spot after eight rounds. But they lost their last five games, although three were within seven points.

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Luck of the Draw: No luck at all. The Hurricanes have a nightmare start, off to South Africa to play the tough Sharks and Stormers before their first home game against the Brumbies. They finish with the Crusaders at home and Chiefs away, so not an ideal draw.

Campaign Preview: The coach under the most pressure to at least get his side up to the semi-finals this year is Hurricanes’ mentor Mark Hammett.

Since he took over in 2011, the Hurricanes have finished ninth, eighth and 11th which is underwhelming when you consider the quality and depth of players he has had at his disposal.

KING OF CENTRES: Conrad Smith is back to lead the Hurricanes after missing the All Blacks tour last November.

But the Hurricanes have under-performed since 1996, with just one final appearance over all those years. So it is unfair to have expected Hammett to change that record in just a few seasons.

He has an exciting team with rare brilliance in loose forwards Ardie Savea and Victor Vito plus arguably the most potent backline in the competition.

Savea was taken away on the All Blacks end of season tour to watch and learn and it will be fascinating to see how he has matured. He has become stronger and quicker over the summer break which means he has the physicality now to go with his outstanding skills.

Hammett said he was happy with what his squad offered across the board, and was thrilled with the way many of them had performed during the ITM Cup season.

“Many of the players we have for this year have shown a great deal of maturity throughout the ITM Cup. I also think the youth we had in our team three years ago have now gained a lot of experience as both international and Super Rugby players, and I’m confident that group of players will step up this season.”

Hammett has 26 players returning from last year plus former stalwart John Schwalger returning from overseas. Inspirational captain Conrad Smith is back refreshed after he took time away from the international game, which can only be a good thing for the Hurricanes.

They have nine current All Blacks, four Maori All Blacks, and three Manu Samoa players in their squad.

“I think it is a pretty strong squad across the boards,” says Hammett. “We sorted out our style of play by the end of last season so with 26 returning we know our start point and we can’t move back from that.

We are looking forward to it.”

Who’s New: Despite last year’s poor results, the players have mostly stayed loyal and that is a good sign. Experienced campaigner John Schwalger is a great asset returning home from overseas, not just for his solid scrummaging but what for the former All Black will bring to the leadership team. Forwards: Mark Abbott, John Schwalger, Ash Dixon. Backs: Marty Banks, Hadleigh Parkes, Cardiff Vaega.

Who’s Through: Jason Eaton never played a bad game and was a tough character, as was Karl Lowe who will be missed. Forwards: Jason Eaton, Ben May, Karl Lowe. Backs: Samisoni Fisilau, Tusi Pisi, Ray Lee-Lo, Ope Peleseuma.

Likely Finish: Sixth place. There is no doubt the Hurricanes should always be pushing for a spot in the play-offs, but all New Zealand teams are at a disadvantage because of how strong the conference is here. The draw is tough and well may be the difference in not making the semis this year.

HURRICANES SQUAD Forwards: Mark Abbott, James Broadhurst, Dane Coles, Ash Dixon, Ben Franks, Reggie Goodes, Jack Lam, Faifili Levave, Motu Matu’u, Mark Reddish, Ardie Savea, John Schwalger, Brad Shields, Eric Sione, Blade Thomson, Jeremy Thrush, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Victor Vito.

Backs: Beauden Barrett, Marty Banks, Tim Bateman, Cory Jane, Alapati Leiua, James Marshall, Hadleigh Parkes, TJ Perenara, Matt Proctor, Julian Savea, Conrad Smith, Chris Smylie, Andre Taylor, Cardiff Vaega.

FEEDING THE BACKS SINCE 1889.

Super RUGBY 2014

page 14

OFFICIAL BEER

oliverlee.co.nz

2014 SEASON’S DRAW

INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY Game S GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

WEEK ONE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

WEEK SIX

Sun, 16 Feb

Cheetahs

v

Lions

Bloemfontein

4.05 am

Fri, 21 March

Highlanders v

Hurricanes

Dunedin

7.35 pm

Sun, 16 Feb

Sharks

v

Bulls

Durban

6.10 am

Fri, 21 March

Waratahs

v

Rebels

Sydney

9.40 pm 7.35 pm

Bye: Stormers

Sat, 22 March

Blues

v

Cheetahs

Auckland

WEEK TWO

Sat, 22 March

Brumbies

v

Stormers

Canberra

Sun, 23 March

Force

v

Chiefs

Perth

Sun, 23 March

Lions

v

Reds

Johannesburg

4.05 am

Sun, 23 March

Bulls

v

Sharks

Pretoria

6.10 am

7.35 pm

Fri, 21 Feb

Crusaders

v

Chiefs

Christchurch

7.35 pm

Sat, 22 Feb

Cheetahs

v

Bulls

Bloemfontein

6.10 am

Sat, 22 Feb

Highlanders v

Blues

Dunedin

7.35 pm

Sat, 22 Feb

Brumbies

v

Reds

Canberra

9.40 pm

Sun, 23 Feb

Sharks

v

Hurricanes

Durban

4.05 am

Sun, 23 Feb

Lions

v

Stormers

Johannesburg

6.10 am

Sun, 23 Feb

Waratahs

v

Force

Sydney

6.05 pm

Bye: Rebels

WEEK THREE Fri, 28 Feb

Blues

v

Crusaders

Auckland

7.35 pm

Fri, 28 Feb

Rebels

v

Cheetahs

Melbourne

9.40 pm

Sat, 01 March

Stormers

v

Hurricanes

Cape Town

6.10 am

Sat, 01 March

Chiefs

v

Highlanders Hamilton

Sat, 01 March

Waratahs

v

Reds

Sydney

Sun, 02 March

Force

v

Brumbies

Perth

Sun, 02 March

Bulls

v

Lions

Pretoria

9.40 pm 12.00 am

Bye: Crusaders

WEEK SEVEN Fri, 28 March

Crusaders

v

Hurricanes

Christchurch

Fri, 28 March

Rebels

v

Brumbies

Melbourne

Sat, 29 March

Blues

v

Highlanders Auckland

7.35 pm

Sat, 29 March

Reds

v

Stormers

Brisbane

9.40 pm

Sun, 30 March

Bulls

v

Chiefs

Pretoria

2.00 am

Sun, 30 March

Sharks

v

Waratahs

Durban

4.05 am

9.40 pm

Bye: Cheetahs, Force, Lions

7.35 pm 9.40 pm 12.00 am 4.05 am

Bye: Sharks

WEEK FOUR

WEEK EIGHT DAYLIGHT SAVINGS FINISHES AUSTRALIA and NEW ZEALAND Fri, 04 April

Highlanders v

Rebels

Dunedin

7.35 pm

Fri, 04 April

Brumbies

v

Blues

Canberra

9.40 pm

Sat, 05 April

Hurricanes

v

Bulls

Napier

5.35 pm

Sat, 05 April

Reds

v

Force

Brisbane

7.40 pm

Fri, 07 March

Hurricanes

v

Brumbies

Wellington

7.35 pm

Sun, 06 April

Cheetahs

v

Chiefs

Bloemfontein

2.00 am

Fri, 07 March

Reds

v

Cheetahs

Brisbane

9.40 pm

Sun, 06 April

Lions

v

Crusaders

Johannesburg

3.05 am

Sat, 08 March

Crusaders

v

Stormers

Christchurch

7.35 pm

Sun, 06 April

Stormers

v

Waratahs

Cape Town

5.10 am

Sat, 08 March

Force

v

Rebels

Perth

9.40 pm

Bye: Sharks

Sun, 09 March

Bulls

v

Blues

Pretoria

4.05 am

Sun, 09 March

Sharks

v

Lions

Durban

6.10 am

7.35 pm

WEEK NINE

Bye: Chiefs, Highlanders, Waratahs

Fri, 11 April

Highlanders v

Bulls

Dunedin

WEEK FIVE

Fri, 11 April

Reds

v

Brumbies

Brisbane

9.40 pm

Chiefs

v

Rebels

Hamilton

7.35 pm

Fri, 14 March

Chiefs

v

Stormers

Hamilton

7.35 pm

Sat, 12 April

Fri, 14 March

Rebels

v

Crusaders

Melbourne

9.40 pm

Sat, 12 April

Force

v

Waratahs

Perth

9.40 pm

Sat, 15 March

Hurricanes

v

Cheetahs

Wellington

4.35 pm

Sun, 13 April

Cheetahs

v

Crusaders

Bloemfontein

3.05 am

Sat, 15 March

Highlanders v

Force

Dunedin

7.35 pm

Sun, 13 April

Lions

v

Sharks

Johannesburg

5.10 am

Sat, 15 March

Brumbies

v

Waratahs

Canberra

9.40 pm

Bye: Blues, Hurricanes, Stormers

Sun, 16 March

Lions

v

Blues

Johannesburg

2.00 am

Sun, 16 March

Sharks

v

Reds

Durban

4.05 am

WEEK TEN EASTER WEEKEND

Bye: Bulls

Fri, 18 April

Hurricanes

v

Blues

Wellington

7.35 pm

DATE

NZ TIME

Fri, 18 April

Rebels

v

Force

Melbourne

9.40 pm

GAME

VENUE

Sat, 19 April

Chiefs

v

Crusaders

Hamilton

7.35 pm

Sat, 7 June

All Blacks

v

England

Auckland

7.35 pm

Sat, 19 April

Waratahs

v

Bulls

Sydney

9.40 pm

Sat, 14 June

All Blacks

v

England

Dunedin

7.35 pm

Sun, 20 April

Sharks

v

Cheetahs

Durban

1.00 am

Tues, 17 June

Crusaders

v

England

Christchurch

7.35 pm

Sun, 20 April

Stormers

v

Lions

Cape Town

3.05 am

Sat, 21 June

All Blacks

v

England

Hamilton

7.35 pm

Bye: Brumbies, Highlanders, Reds

STEINLAGER SERIES All Blacks v England

The Official Community Partner of

chedule

For up to date information visit superrugby.co.nz All times listed below are New Zealand local times and were correct at time of print.

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

WEEK ELEVEN Fri, 25 April

Blues

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

WEEK SIXTEEN v

Waratahs

Auckland

Fri, 25 April

Brumbies

v

Chiefs

Sat, 26 April

Sharks

v

Highlanders Durban

Sat, 26 April

Hurricanes

v

Reds

Canberra

Wellington

5.35 pm

Fri, 30 May

Crusaders

v

Force

7.40 pm

Fri, 30 May

Reds

v

Highlanders Brisbane

9.40 pm 4.35 pm

Christchurch

7.35 pm

5.10 am

Sat, 31 May

Chiefs

v

Waratahs

New Plymouth

7.35 pm

Sat, 31 May

Blues

v

Hurricanes

Auckland

7.35 pm

Brumbies

v

Rebels

Canberra

9.40 pm

Sat, 26 April

Force

v

Bulls

Perth

9.40 pm

Sat, 31 May

Sun, 27 April

Cheetahs

v

Stormers

Bloemfontein

3.05 am

Sun, 01 June

Lions

v

Bulls

Johannesburg

3.05 am

Sun, 01 June

Sharks

v

Stormers

Durban

5.10 am

Bye: Crusaders, Lions, Rebels

Bye: Cheetahs

WEEK TWELVE Fri, 02 May

Blues

Fri, 02 May

Rebels

Sat, 03 May

Crusaders

WEEK SEVENTEEN AUSTRALIAN AND NEW ZEALAND TEAMS ONLY

v

Reds

Auckland

7.35 pm

v

Sharks

Melbourne

9.40 pm

Fri, 27 June

Highlanders v

Chiefs

Dunedin

4.35 pm

Fri, 27 June

Rebels

v

Reds

Melbourne

9.40 pm

Sat, 28 June

Hurricanes

v

Crusaders

Wellington

7.35 pm

Sat, 28 June

Waratahs

v

Brumbies

Sydney

Sat, 28 June

Force

v

Blues

Perth

v

Hurricanes

Hamilton

v

Brumbies

Christchurch

Sat, 03 May

Chiefs

v

Lions

Hamilton

7.35 pm

Sat, 03 May

Waratahs

v

Hurricanes

Sydney

9.40 pm

Sun, 04 May

Stormers

v

Highlanders Cape Town

1.00 am

Sun, 04 May

Bulls

v

Cheetahs

3.05 am

Pretoria

Bye: Force

WEEK THIRTEEN Fri, 09 May

Chiefs

v

Blues

New Plymouth

7.35 pm

Fri, 09 May

Rebels

v

Hurricanes

Melbourne

9.40 pm

Sat, 10 May

Highlanders v

Lions

Dunedin

7.35 pm

Sat, 10 May

Brumbies

v

Sharks

Canberra

9.40 pm

Sun, 11 May

Cheetahs

v

Force

Bloemfontein

3.05 am

Sun, 11 May

Bulls

v

Stormers

Pretoria

5.10 am

Sun, 11 May

Reds

v

Crusaders

Brisbane

6.05 pm

Bye: Waratahs

WEEK FOURTEEN

7.35 pm

9.40 pm 11.45 pm

WEEK EIGHTEEN 7.35 pm

Fri, 04 July

Chiefs

Sat, 05 July

Lions

v

Rebels

Johannesburg

5.10 am

Sat, 05 July

Crusaders

v

Blues

Christchurch

7.35 pm

Sat, 05 July

Force

v

Reds

Perth

9.40 pm

Sun, 06 July

Stormers

v

Bulls

Cape Town

3.05 am

Sun, 06 July

Cheetahs

v

Sharks

Bloemfontein

5.10 am

Sun, 06 July

Waratahs

v

Highlanders Sydney

6.05 pm

Bye: Brumbies

WEEK NINETEEN Fri, 11 July

Blues

v

Chiefs

Auckland

7.35 pm

Fri, 11 July

Brumbies

v

Force

Canberra

9.40 pm

Sat, 12 July

Bulls

v

Rebels

Pretoria

5.10 am

Fri, 16 May

Hurricanes

v

Highlanders Wellington

7.35 pm

Sat, 12 July

Crusaders

v

Highlanders Christchurch

7.35 pm

Sat, 17 May

Crusaders

v

Sharks

Christchurch

7.35 pm

Sat, 12 July

Reds

v

Waratahs

Brisbane

9.40 pm

Sat, 17 May

Reds

v

Rebels

Brisbane

9.40 pm

Sun, 13 July

Lions

v

Cheetahs

Johannesburg

3.05 am

Sun, 18 May

Stormers

v

Force

Cape Town

3.05 am

Sun, 13 July

Stormers

v

Sharks

Cape Town

5.10 am

Sun, 18 May

Cheetahs

v

Brumbies

Bloemfontein

5.10 am

Bye: Hurricanes

Sun, 18 May

Waratahs

v

Lions

Sydney

6.05 pm

Bye: Blues, Bulls, Chiefs

THE FINALS SUPER RUGBY QUALIFIERS

WEEK FIFTEEN

Bye: Team 1 and Team 2

Fri, 23 May

Blues

v

Fri, 23 May

Rebels

Sat, 24 May

Highlanders v

v

Sharks

Albany

7.35 pm

Fri July 18

Team 3

v

Team 6

9.40 pm

Sat July 19

Team 4

v

Team 5

Waratahs

Melbourne

Crusaders

Dunedin

5.35 pm

Fri July 25

Team 1

v

Lowest Ranked Qualifier Winner

Sat July 26

Team 2

v

Highest Ranked Qualifier Winner

Sat, 24 May

Hurricanes

v

Chiefs

Wellington

7.35 pm

Sat, 24 May

Force

v

Lions

Perth

9.40 pm

Sun, 25 May

Stormers

v

Cheetahs

Cape Town

3.05 am

Sun, 25 May

Bulls

v

Brumbies

Pretoria

5.10 am

Bye: Reds

SUPER RUGBY SEMI-FINALS

SUPER RUGBY FINAL SATURDAY AUGUST 2 FINAL

Winner of Semi 1 v

Winner of Semi 2

NB: Times, dates and venues subject to change

TOGETHER, WE’RE BUILDING NEW ZEALAND

SUPER RUGBY 2014

Arrivals and departures NEW ZEALAND conference IN: Sam Prattley (from Auckland), Ofa Tu’ungafasi, (from Auckland) Tony Woodcock (from Highlanders), Tom Donnelly (from Crusaders), Patrick Tuipulotu (from Auckland), Jerome Kaino (from Toyota, Japan), Pita Ahki (from North Harbour), Ma’a Nonu (from Highlanders), Benji Marshall (from West Tigers league), Lolagi Visinia (from Auckland), Hayden Triggs (from Honda, Japan).

OUT: Ronald Raaymakers (released), Anthony Boric (to Mitsubishi, Japan), Culum Retallick (injury), Ali Williams (to RC Toulon), Tim Perry (to Crusaders), Quentin MacDonald (released), Waisake Naholo (to NZ Sevens), Rene Ranger (to Montpellier), Marty McKenzie (to NZ Sevens), Malakai Fekitoa (to Highlanders).

IN: Mils Muliaina (from Docomo, Japan), Kane Thompson (from Canon, Japan), Robbie Fruean (from Crusaders), Jamie Mackintosh (from Highlanders), James Lowe (from Tasman), Liam Squire (from Tasman), Matthew Symons (from Canterbury).

OUT: Toby Smith (to Melbourne Rebels), Richard Kahui (to Toshiba, Japan), Craig Clarke (to Connacht, Ireland).

IN: Colin Slade (from Highlanders), Tim Perry (from Tasman), Mitchell Drummond (from Canterbury), Rey Lee-Lo (from Hurricanes), Nemani Nadolo (from NEC, Japan).

OUT: Dan Carter (sabbatical), Robbie Fruean (to Chiefs), Tom Marshall (to Chiefs), Shane Christie (to Highlanders), Tom Donnelly (to Blues), Tom Marshall (to Chiefs) Jeremy Su’a (to Worcester, England).

IN: Kurt Baker (from Taranaki), Malakai Fekitoa (from Blues), Patrick Osborne (from Chiefs), Matias Diaz (from Argentina), Shane Christie (from Crusaders), Gareth Evans (from Otago), Tom Franklin (from Otago), Kane Hames (from Bay of Plenty), Willie Ripia (from Bay of Plenty), Frae Wilson (from wider training group), Winston Stanley (from Western Force).

OUT: Andrew Hore (retired), Ma’a Nonu (to Blues) Tony Woodcock (to Blues), Jamie Mackintosh (to Chiefs), Hosea Gear (to Toulouse), Tamati Ellison (to Rebels), Colin Slade (to Crusaders), Tim Boys (released), Chris King (released), Jake Paringatai (released), Declan O’Donnell (to NZ Sevens), Kade Poki (to Kubota, Japan).

IN: John Schwalger (from Agen, France), Mark Abbott (from Hawke’s Bay), Ash Dixon (from Hurricanes), Marty Banks (from Tasman), Hadleigh Parkes (from Southern Kings), Cardiff Vaega (from Southland).

OUT: Jason Eaton (to NTT, Japan), Ben May (to Fukuoka, Japan), Karl Lowe (to Canon, Japan), Samisoni Fisilau (released), Tusi Pisi (to Suntory, Japan), Ray Lee-Lo (to Crusaders), Ope Peleseuma (released).

AUSTRALIAN conference IN: Jack Whetton (from Auckland), Jarrad Butler (from Reds), Conrad Hoffmann (from Hamiltons, South Africa), Lionel Cronjé (from Golden Lions), Harumichi Tatekawa (Kubota Spears, Japan).

OUT: Dan Palmer (to Grenoble), Etienne Oosthuizen (to Sharks), Colby Fainga’a (to Rebels), Peter Kimlin (to Grenoble, George Smith (returned to Suntory Sungoliath), Ian Prior (to Force), Mark Swanepoel (to Tasman), Zack Holmes (to Force), Tom Cox (released).

IN: Chris Heiberg (from Stormers), Wilhelm Steenkamp (from Bulls), Brynard Stander (from Natal Sharks), Ian Prior (from Brumbies), Zack Holmes (from Brumbies), Marcel Brache (from Western Province), Dane Haylett-Petty (from Biarritz), Luke Morahan (from Reds).

OUT: Salesi Ma’afu (to Northampton Saints), James Hilterbrand (to Edinburgh), Ben Whittaker (to Biarritz), Toby Lynn (released), Rory Walton (to extended playing squad), Richard Brown (to Honda Heat), Lachlan McCaffrey (to Brumbies), Chris Eaton (released), Brett Sheehan (released), Michael Snowden (released), Sam Christie (released), Ben Jacobs (to London Wasps), Winston Stanley (to Highlanders), Will Tupou (released), Alfie Mafi (to Brive), Sam Norton-Knight (to Kubota Spears).

Super RUGBY 2014

page 18

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Arrivals and departures continued from PAGE 18 AUSTRALIAN conference continued IN: Max Lahiff (from London Irish), Toby Smith (from Chiefs), Tom Sexton (from Leinster), Colby Fainga’a (from Brumbies), Lopeti Timani (from Waratahs), Tamati Ellison (from Highlanders), Tom Kingston (from Waratahs), Telusa Veainu (from Crusaders).

OUT: Nic Henderson (retired), Ged Robinson (to Hawke’s Bay), James King (released), Tim Davidson (retired), Jarrod Saffy (to US Bressane), Gareth Delve (to NEC Green Rockets), Nick Phipps (to Waratahs), James Hilgendorf (released), James O’Connor (to London Irish), Rory Sidey (released), Richard Kingi (to Stade Français), Cooper Vuna (to Toshiba Brave Lupus), Kimami Sitauti (released), Kurtley Beale (to Waratahs).

IN: Lachlan Turner (from Waratahs), Jamie-Jerry Taulagi (from University of Queensland).

OUT: Adam Wallace-Harrison (retired), Nigel Ah Wong (to Coca Cola West Red Sparks), Jarrad Butler (to Brumbies), Radike Samo (to Kintetsu Liners), Jono Lance (to Waratahs), Digby Ioane (to Stade Français), Luke Morahan (to Force).

IN: Tolu Latu (from Sydney University), Tala Gray (from Biarritz), Jacques Potgieter (from Bulls), Nick Phipps (from Rebels), Matthew Carraro (from Montpellier), Jono Lance (from Reds), Kurtley Beale (from Rebels).

OUT: Richard Aho (to Béziers), Damien Fitzpatrick (to Lyon OU), Luke Holmes (released), John Ulugia (to US Bressane), Ollie Atkins (to Edinburgh), Adam Coleman (to Force extended playing squad), Greg Peterson (to extended playing squad), Sitaleki Timani (to Montpellier), AJ Gilbert (to Northern Suburbs), Lopeti Timani (to Rebels), Liam Winton (to Sydney University), Grayson Hart (to Edinburgh), Matt Lucas (to extended playing squad), Berrick Barnes (to Panasonic Wild Knights), Tom Carter (retired), Terrence Hepetema (to Randwick), Tom Kingston (to Rebels), Drew Mitchell (to Toulon), Lachlan Turner (to Reds).

SOUTH AFRICAN conference IN: Max Lahiff (from London Irish), Toby Smith (from Chiefs), Tom Sexton (from Leinster), Colby Fainga’a (from Brumbies), Lopeti Timani (from Waratahs), Tamati Ellison (from Highlanders), Tom Kingston (from Waratahs), Telusa Veainu (from Crusaders).

OUT: Nic Henderson (retired), Ged Robinson (to Hawke’s Bay), James King (released), Tim Davidson (retired), Jarrod Saffy (to US Bressane), Gareth Delve (to NEC Green Rockets), Nick Phipps (to Waratahs), James Hilgendorf (released), James O’Connor (to London Irish), Rory Sidey (released), Richard Kingi (to Stade Français), Cooper Vuna (to Toshiba Brave Lupus), Kimami Sitauti (released), Kurtley Beale (to Waratahs).

IN: Nick Schonert (from Griquas), Jean Cook (from Bulls), Shaun Venter (from Kings), Piet Lindeque (from Sharks), Francois Venter (from Bulls), Cornal Hendricks (from S.A. Sevens).

OUT: Lourens Adriaanse (to Sharks), Frans Viljoen (to Lyon OU), Davon Raubenheimer (released), Tewis de Bruyn (retired), Piet van Zyl (to Bulls), Burton Francis (to Agen) Hansie Graaff (to Natal Sharks), Robert Ebersohn (to Montpellier), Barry Geel (to Rustenburg Impala).

The Lions join the 2014 Super Rugby season at the expense of the Kings.

All players joined from domestic Golden Lions unless stated.

IN: Schalk van der Merwe (from Free State Cheetahs), Willie Wepener (from Bulls), MB Lusaseni (from Leopards), Franco van der Merwe (returned from Sharks), Thabo Mamojele (from Kings), Derick Minnie (returned from Sharks), Ricky Schroeder (from Boland Cavaliers), Willie du Plessis (from Free State Cheetahs), Elton Jantjies (returned from Stormers), Lionel Mapoe (returned from Bulls), Courtnall Skosan (from Blue Bulls), Andries Coetzee (returned from Sharks).

IN: Lourens Adriaanse (from Cheetahs), Etienne Oosthuizen (from Brumbies), Marco Wentzel (from Wasps), SP Marais (from Kings).

OUT: JC Janse van Rensburg (returned to Lions), Craig Burden (to RC Toulon), Jandré Marais (to Bordeaux Bègles), Franco van der Merwe (returned to Lions), Derick Minnie (returned to Lions), Butch James (retired), Meyer Bosman (to Stade Français), Piet Lindeque (to Cheetahs), Andries Coetzee (returned to Lions), Louis Ludik (to Agen), Riaan Viljoen (to NTT Docomo Red Hurricanes).

IN: Oli Kebble (from Western Province), Alistair Vermaak (from Western Province), Manuel Carizza (from Racing Métro), Tazz Fuzani (from Western Province), Jean Kleyn (from Western Province), Sikhumbuzo Notshe (from Western Province), Godlen Masimla (from Western Province), Demetri Catrakilis (from Kings), Ryno Eksteen (from Western Province), Michael van der Spuy (from Western Province), Kobus van Wyk (from Western Province), Patrick Howard (from Western Province), Scott van Breda (from Kings).

OUT: Deon Carstens (retired), Ross Geldenhuys (returned to Eastern Province Kings), Chris Heiberg (to Force), Martin Bezuidenhout (returned to Lions), Andries Bekker (to Kobe Kobelco Steelers), Marius Coetzer (returned to Pumas), Don Armand (to Exeter Chiefs), Rohan Kitshoff (to Western Province), Dewaldt Duvenage (to Perpignan), Elton Jantjies (returned to Lions), Bryan Habana (to Toulon), Gerhard van den Heever (to Munster), Joe Pietersen (to Biarritz).

oliverlee.co.nz

page 21

Super RUGBY 2014

HOW THEY STAND:

The Australian conference UNIVERSITY of CANBERRA

BRUMBIES

Last season: First in conference, fourth overall Coach: Laurie Fisher Homeground: Canberra Stadium Website: www.brumbies.com.au Last year was quite a revelation for the two-time winners as the Brumbies defied the odds to go all the way to the final, where they pushed the Chiefs hard before succumbing 27-22 in a memorable match.

Their mastermind was former Springbok World Cup winning coach Jake White and his influence cannot be discounted. This year the Brumbies will find out just how significant he was as he has moved on.

But newly promoted head coach Laurie Fisher and astute sidekick Stephen Larkham will ensure a smooth transition and with their liking for positive rugby, expect to see some of the old Brumbies flair weaved back into what was a highly structured game plan last year.

QUEENSLAND

REDS

Last season: Second in conference, fifth overall Coach: Richard Graham Homeground: Suncorp Stadium Website: www.redsrugby.com.au The Reds were second in the Aussie conference last year and that is where they are likely to finish in 2014. They have a reasonable squad but the biggest loss is head coach Ewen McKenzie, who took a young, poorly performing team to win the title in 2011.

NEW SOUTH WALES

WARATAHS

The signs are certainly promising for the Brumbies who look head and shoulders above the other Aussie teams.

Canberra Stadium can be an unforgiving place to visit.

The Brumbies need to win their home games there to be a real threat in 2014.

A player to watch will be Auckland lock Jack Whetton who has great promise and pedigree but the 21-year-old has not managed to step up to this level before. Now he has his chance.

As always so much depends on their three super stars in Will Genia, Quade Cooper and James Horwill who will be looking to stay injury free and regain their confidence. Certainly without them the Reds are a much easier side to overcome, especially away from the heat and intensity of Suncorp Stadium.

Lachlan Turner is an excellent signing from the Waratahs and his extreme speed will be a major asset He is a more than capable replacement for Digby Ione who now plies his trade in France.

The precocious talent of 21-year-old openside flanker Liam Gill will again be on display in a Reds jumper and expect to see him near the top of the tackles made column at the season’s end.

The Reds managed to somehow stagger into the playoffs last year where they were given a hiding by a vengeful Crusaders outfit; an experience that will certainly have hardened them up.

Former North Harbour and Wallabies five-eighth Mike Harris is back from injury. He is a fine player and keen to cement a spot at second-five. His goal kicking is a major asset.

Last season: third in conference, ninth overall Coach: Michael Cheika Homeground: Allianz Stadium, Sydney

The Waratahs finished ninth last year in their first season under coach Michael Cheika, who replaced Michael Foley.

For such a talent and resource-rich franchise, with a massive support base from the Sydney area, that was simply not good enough. They finished with eight wins and eight losses and exasperated their own fans with their high error rate.

But they have a stronger squad this campaign with the arrival of Wallaby Kurtley Beale from the Rebels garnering plenty of media attention. There is no doubt he is a world class player and capable of being a match winner against any team. But Beale has a page 22

But in his place back from injury is David Pocock, who was regarded as the best openside flanker in world rugby after Richie McCaw. If he gets back to his very best form then that will be a major advantage to the Brumbies at the contentious tackle ball area.

He has the Wallabies job now and is replaced by Richard Graham, who is a former Reds player and coached the Western Force for the last four seasons.

He is a hard-nosed character so should continue the structures McKenzie put in place.

Website: www.waratahs.com.au

Super RUGBY 2014

The Aussie franchises have mostly had heavy player turnover during the off season but the Brumbies have kept nearly all their high performing squad, with the exception of veteran flanker George Smith, who has returned to Japan.

poor disciplinary record off the field and must surely be on his last warning.

He is likely to start at No.10 ahead of incumbent pivot Bernard Foley if his form demands it but it is clear from the Waratahs camp that Beale will not be playing fullback, where he played so many tests for Australia. That place is locked in by the world class Israel Folau, who has made a sensational transition from rugby league. If he and Beale can hit top form together the Waratahs will have the basis of a superb attacking force.

A new player of interest is a former forklift driver from Sydney in hooker Tolu Latu, who will be understudy to regular starting hooker Tatafu PolotaNau. Latu joins back rower Tala Gray, halfback Nick Phipps, former Australia A back Matt Carraro and South African second rower Jacques Potgieter as other new faces in the squad.

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MELBOURNE

REBELS

Last season: Fourth in conference, 12th overall Coach: Tony McGahan Homeground: AAMI Park Website: www.melbournerebels.com.au The Rebels finished in 12th spot last year which was their best performance in the fledgling franchise’s three year history.

They won five of their 16 games, including notable victories over the Stormers, Waratahs and Highlanders at their excellent home venue in Melbourne at AAMI Park.

But they also came oh-so-close to beating the Blues and Crusaders away, and the Chiefs at home, to show what they are capable of. But attracting a quality core of top class players to Melbourne will always be a challenge.

They are struggling financially and the core of their senior players have left with only former All Black

WESTERN

FORCE

Last season: Fifth in conference, 13th overall Coach: Mike Foley Homeground: nib Stadium, Perth Website: www.rugbywa.com.au The Western Force has had three top 10 finishes since they joined Super Rugby in 2006 but like last year’s 13th placing they have mainly just made up the numbers.

Well not anymore. An aggressive recruiting campaign in South Africa has been successful, with eight South Africans in the squad adding a great amount of skill and steel to the team.

Flyhalf Sias Ebersohn, formerly of the Cheetahs, returns for his second season with the Force and of the newcomers Natal Sharks back-rower Brynard Stander will be the player to watch.

It is heartening to see for the development of rugby in Western Australia that the squad also includes six

Tamati Ellison of a similar class recruited for the likes of Kurtley Beale, James O’Connor, Ged Robinson, Gareth Delve, Nick Phipps, James O’Connor, Richard Kingi and Cooper Vuna.

But hope lies eternal in Victoria with new coach Tony McGahan determined to toughen up the players pre-season and the team’s game plan when the rugby starts. It will take a season or two to come right, but it will come right if the players will stick with him.

On the positive side, Scott Higginbotham is a quality player and will lead the side from lock. An interesting new comer is blindside flanker/No.8 Sean McMahon, who has turned his back on a potential Olympic campaign with the Australian sevens team to pursue his Wallaby dream.

Lock Hugh Pyle is a budding Wallaby in waiting and is one of just four remaining foundation Rebels, alongside Lachlan Mitchell, Luke Jones and Laurie Weeks.

Perth-produced players — the most the franchise has ever boasted at any one time.

There are also seven players with international experience in Nick Cummins, Ben McCalman, Hugh McMeniman, Matt Hodgson, Luke Morahan, Pek Cowan and former All Black Alby Mathewson, who are all capable players.

The Western Force have re-signed lock Rory Walton and recruited Waratahs second row Adam Coleman and Brumbies hooker Robbie Abel, who played for Northland in the ITM Cup. So the forward pack will be tough and uncompromising with some sharp backs just loving training and playing in the Perth sunshine.

Visiting teams will find nib Stadium a daunting place to play at and for the first time there is the very real prospect that the Western Force could really be a force to be reckoned with in 2014.

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HOW THEY STAND:

The South African conference VODACOM

Last season: First in conference, second overall

BULLS

Coach: Frans Ludeke Homeground: Loftus Versfeld Website: www.thebulls.co.za The Bulls’ effort last year to finish second on the table and top the South African conference was highly commendable. They had a home semi-final against the Brumbies everyone expected them to win but the boys from Canberra rained on their parade to win 26–23.

But, the Bulls will struggle to continue that momentum and challenge the play-offs as they have lost so many high-profile players. Chiliboy Ralepelle, Juandre Kruger, Jano Vermaak, Morne Steyn, Wynand Olivier and Wilhelm Steenkamp are experienced Super Rugby players with international pedigree who will take some replacing.

Former Bulls, Sharks and Cheetahs back Jacques-Louis Potgieter is a handy replacement to slot into Steyn’s

TOYOTA FREE STATE

CHEETAHS

Last season: Second in conference, sixth overall Coach: Naka Drotske Homeground: Free State Stadium Website: www.fscheetahs.co.za Last year the Cheetahs finally produced the consistency their abundant talent and player roster has promised over the years with easily their best-ever finish of sixth overall.

DHL

STORMERS

There will be much interest in the return of the ultimate warrior — Victor Matfield. The former Springbok and Bulls lock is back after retiring two years ago, but he turns 37 in May so will be used sparingly. His biggest input could be motivating the forward pack to regain the intimidation factor they had when he and Bakkies Botha ruled the roost.

The Bulls will be led by outstanding No.8 Pierre Spies, who has been out of rugby since June 2013 after he tore a bicep.

A strength will be the acclaimed midfield combination of Francois Venter and Johann Sadie.

The Cheetahs will hope they remain relatively injury-free as there is a lack of experience on the bench in some key areas. One player who will be missed is midfielder Robert Ebersohn who was the mastermind of the organisation of the backline defence last year.

Head coach Naka Drotske has made some good signings in the young and talented Nick Schonert from the Griquas, Shaun Venter from the Kings and sevens star Cornal Hendricks to add to what is a settled squad.

The Cheetahs have managed to keep the bulk of their players from their successful 2013 campaign.

Adriaan Strauss, Coenie Oosthuizen, Willie le Roux and Heinrich Brussow (who will miss the opening rounds due to injury) have been the core of their success.

With the Cheetahs new winning mentality, free license to express themselves and plenty of Springboks experience, the Cheetahs will be serious contenders for the play-offs in 2014. They will be almost impossible to knock-off at home in the fierce cauldron that is the Free State Stadium.

Last season: Third in conference, seventh overall

Burger is an inspirational, follow-me player, and will form the leadership hub of the team with outstanding captain Jean de Villiers. Between them, De Villiers (96) and Burger (88) boast 184 games of Super Rugby experience and are joined by top class Springboks in Eben Etzebeth, Duane Vermeulen and Gio Aplon.

Coach: Allister Coetzee Homeground: Newlands Stadium Website: www.iamastormer.com

They had memorable wins over the Chiefs, Brumbies and the Reds yet finished seventh on the table and third in the South African conference.

They certainly have a team with rich potential but a lack of consistency is the issue.

Perhaps the key to the new season is the return of Springboks hard man Schalk Burger after an 18-month absence out of the game. The 30-year-old has recovered from a knee problem, a calf injury, underwent surgery to remove a cyst pressing on his spine and then contracted bacterial meningitis in the hospital. page 24

Piet van Zyl from the Cheetahs is their only other big-name signing so the Bulls players sure have some big boots to fill. Coach Frans Ludeke is looking to the future and has filled the squad with eight young talented players from their Currie Cup development squad.

After finishing in the bottom-third of the competition since they joined in 2006, the key difference last year was the backline flair Drotske and his coaching team introduced. The Cheetahs were fun to watch and scored some dazzling tries, which turned them from easy beats to real threats.

Last year was a strange one indeed for the Stormers.

Super RUGBY 2014

first-five role and they also have Louis Fouche and youngster Handre Pollard who are capable pivots.

The Cape Town franchise has lost Andries Bekker, Marius Coetzer and Bryan Habana in the off season, but gained Manuel Carizza and Demetri Catrakilis.

The Stormers have filled the rest of their playing roster with home grown youth.

While the Stormers have real potential, it may be too soon to expect a top-four showing — although Burger will have a differing view on that. They will be tough to beat at Newlands, as always, but with five away games in the first eight weeks, including the Chiefs and Crusaders, they are likely to have a slow start.

SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE CONTINUED ON PAGE 26 oliverlee.co.nz

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SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 24

CELL C NATAL COASTAL

SHARKS

Last season: Fourth in conference, eighth overall Coach: Jake White Homeground: Kings Park, Durban Website: www.sharksrugby.co.za The Sharks were disappointing last year, finishing eighth in the competition and only fourth in the South African conference.

But the news from Durban is all positive thanks to the recruitment from the Brumbies of master coach Jake White. Their new director of rugby has made it clear from the outset he wants the Sharks to win the Super Rugby title for the first time, which no doubt will help him succeed Heyneke Meyer as Springboks coach in 2016.

With Butch James retiring and Franco van der Merwe returning to the Lions, the Sharks have bolstered their second-row ranks with Etienne Oosthuizen and Marco Wentzel, who join a high

GOLDEN

LIONS

Last season: New to Super Rugby 2014 Coach: Johan Ackermann Homeground: Ellis Park Website: www.lionsrugby.co.za At the end of the 2013 Super Rugby season, the Lions won the fifth place conference play-offs against the Southern Kings to gain promotion for their second season overall in Super Rugby after debuting in 2011.

They have signed three outstanding players in Schalk van der Merwe from the Cheetahs, Elton Jantjies from the Stormers and Franco van der Merwe from the Sharks. Jantjies made his Super Rugby debut in 2011 for the Lions before joining the Stormers for the 2013 season on a loan deal.

The brilliant attacking first-five with a golden boot made his test debut for South Africa in 2012 and at

quality squad packed with internationals, including new captain Bismarck du Plessis, Willem Alberts, Ryan Kankowski, Tendai Mtawarira, Patrick Lambie and François Steyn.

White has stated Lambie will play at 10 and Steyn at 12, which will give the Sharks one of the best inside-back combinations in the competition, but arguably their real strength lies in the loose forwards.

With so much depth, last year’s captain Keegan Daniel is not certain of a place, with Kankowski’s return from Japan, Alberts back in form and Jean Deysel named as one of the vice-captains.

The Sharks should get a flyer with seven of their first nine games at the intimidating arena of Kings Park, where the Durban crowd may give them the boost they need to get through the early rounds.

A play-off spot seems most likely for the Sharks this year but the White-magic could well bring some long awaited success to the Durban faithful. the age of 23 has the best years of his rugby career ahead of him.

Lions head coach Johan Ackermann is content with the depth to his squad ahead of their return to Super Rugby this season. Willie Wepener, Derick Minnie and Lionel Mapoe, Ruan Combrinck and Dylan Des Fountain are all capable players.

Clearly the biggest battle for the Lions will be continuity and consistency. They will have a strong team bond as most of their squad played together on a regular basis in last year’s Currie Cup but the step up to Super Rugby is huge.

Playing against experienced international players week in and week out, plus the massive travel ordeal to New Zealand and Australia, takes time to adapt to.

So expectations are not high for the Lions but they do have Ellis Park as their home ground which is a tough place to win at for away teams.

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JWC 2014

The future stars of world rugby are coming Think of Steven Luatua, Julian Savea, Aaron Cruden, Sam Whitelock and Sam Cane and they have one thing in common.

NEW ZEALAND U20s performing the Haka against the England U20 during the 2013 semi-final.

Image provided by GETTY IMAGESWW

A

LL WERE STARS of the IRB Junior World Championship — the tournament staged each year for the best young players in the world.

Now that tournament is heading our way in June.

The IRB Junior World Championship (JWC2014) will feature 12 teams and 336 players in 30 action-packed matches.

And our Under-20s team will be looking to restore their grip on the trophy they have won four of the six times the event has been staged.

Regardless of how the young men in black perform, it’s going to be a hugely exciting spectacle for fans as these rising stars play their hearts out with one eye on higher national honours.

In last year’s championship in France an average of six tries were scored in each match.

JWC is a proven springboard to higher honours and a key part of the All Blacks success story.

The last triumph for New Zealand was in Italy in 2011, South Africa winning at home in 2012 and England last year in France. JWC2014 kicks off on Queen’s Birthday, Monday, 2 June and climaxes with the final at Eden Park on 20 June.

In fact, all up 17 All Blacks who took part in the end of year tour to Europe last year have risen through the Under-20 ranks. Around the world more than 250 players have gone on to represent their country at the senior level.

New Zealand will be looking for plenty of home crowd support. Tickets have been priced as low as $5 for children. A family of four can attend all three pool matches at one venue on each match day from as little as $30.

So, without a doubt, JWC2014 will produce more future stars of the game and New Zealand fans will have a great opportunity to see the best young players in the world up close.

Pool matches are being played at North Harbour Stadium in Albany and ECOLight Stadium in Pukekohe.

Super RUGBY 2014

New Zealand faces a tough draw in Pool C, meeting South Africa who beat them in the 2012 final, as well as Samoa and Scotland.

page 28

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION visit www.irb.com/jwc #jwc2014

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Get along to the game and play your part.

Tickets on sale now. #playyourpart | superrugby.co.nz

TEST YOUR SKILLS

Super RUGBY quiz How well do you know your players, teams, scores and scorers from throughout the history of Super Rugby? Here is your chance to show-off to your mates. Good luck!

04 Reds 03 Southern Kings 02 Auckland Blues 01 1996

ANSWERS

20 False – they drew 28-28 against the Brumbies in Canberra in 2005 19 Brad Meurant

page 30

05 1996, 1997, 2003

Super RUGBY 2014

06 Bulls

20 The Chiefs have never had a draw in a Super 12 match — true or false?

07 Wendell Sailor

19 Who was the first coach of the Chiefs?

21 None.

The Chiefs played all their home games in Rotorua, Tauranga and Taupo, as Hamilton’s rugby stadium was being rebuilt

18 What player has scored the most Super Rugby points?

08 Western Force

17 The Crusaders won their first title in 1998.

Who did they defeat in the final?

22 Jamie Cameron

16 Where did the Crusaders place in the first season of Super Rugby (Super 12)?

09 Chiefs

15 How many finals have the Crusaders played in?

23 Captain Hurricane

14 The Bulls won the first of their three titles in what year?

10 Brumbies

13 The Crusaders won four titles in five years from 1998-2002 — who interrupted the sequence by winning in 2001?

30 Where did the Highlanders finish in the 2013 Super Rugby season?

24 Christian Cullen

12 Two teams have each been runners-up four times — who are they?

29 Who finished last in the 2013 season?

11 Bulls

11 In 2013, who won the South African conference?

28 In which season did George Smith debut for the Brumbies?

25 Palmerston North

10 In 2013, who won the Australian conference?

27 What is the name of the Cape Town-based franchise?

26 Cheetahs

9 In 2013, who won the New Zealand conference?

26 Which Super 14 franchise is based in Bloemfontein?

27 Stormers

8 What is the name of the new team that entered Super Rugby in 2011, when the competition extended to 15 teams?

25 Where did the Hurricanes play their first ever Super 12 game?

28 2000

7 Which Rugby League convert played for the Reds from 2002 to 2005, switched to the Waratahs for the 2006 season, and also represented the Wallabies?

far right BREAK THROUGH: What year did the Bulls win the first of their three titles? Q14

24 Which Hurricanes player was known as the Paekakariki Express?

29 Southern Kings

6 Which South African team was the first to win a Super Rugby final?

23 What is the Hurricanes mascot called?

Sharks and Brumbies Brumbies 2007 10 Last

5 The Blues have won three Super Rugby titles — what years were they?

centre CONSISTENT: How many finals have the Crusaders played in? Q15

12 13 14 15 16

4 Which team won the Super XV title in 2011?

22 Who was the leading point’s scorer for the Hurricanes in their inaugural season in Super Rugby?

30 14th

3 Which team entered the competition for the first time in 2013?

17 Blues

2 Who won the Super 12 title that first year?

21 How many games did the Chiefs play in Hamilton in 2002?

18 Dan Carter

1 What year did Super Rugby (Super 12) start?

above CLOSE SHAVE: The Chiefs have never had a draw in a Super 12 match — true or false? Q20

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