Super Rugby 2016

YOUR FREE GUIDE TO THE 2016 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SEASON

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WELCOME TO YOUR FREE GUIDE TO THE 2016 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SEASON

Managing Editor:

Oliver Lee

Contributing Writers:

Peter White Stephen Nell Proofreading:

Elise McDowell Photography:

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SUPER RUGBY CONTENTS 23 04 START 06 NEW FOR THE BLUES

1 0 CRUSADERS: LAST FOR TODD

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AND THE SUNWOLVES

26 PREVIEWING THE BULLS

13 HIGHLANDERS AFTER REPEAT VICTORY

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TEAMS 24 NEW LOS JAGUARES

AFTER 09 CHIEFS FINALS RUGBY

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A LOOK AT THE REDS, FORCE AND REBELS

NEW FORMAT REVIEW

14 HURRICANES CONFIDENT 16 to 18

INVESTEC

SUPER RUGBY

AND CHEETAHS

TEAMS 24 NEW LOS JAGUARES AND THE SUNWOLVES

DRAW

21

BRUMBIES AND WARATAHS PREVIEW

UP THE 29 EYEING LIONS, KINGS

AND STORMERS THE FORTUNES 0 3 OF THE SHARKS

NOTE: The TAB odds quoted throughout the magazine were correct on 11 February 2016. For the latest updated odds visit tab.co.nz

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SUPER RUGBY PREVIEW

The revamped 2016 Super Rugby competition will launch the dawning of a new era of professional rugby. It will be played in seven different countries following on from the All Blacks winning the Rugby World Cup in such dramatic style last year.

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HE 21st staging of Super Rugby will have a real global presence with the introduction of teams from Japan and Argentina.

The introduction of three new teams has meant a new competition format.

PETER WHITE explains the changes in what is set to be an exciting brave new world of Super Rugby.

Kings, Lions and Sharks, with the Australian teams playing the conference 1 sides the Bulls, Cheetahs, Stormers and Sunwolves. The draw will reverse in 2017.

To decide the eight teams that qualify for the play-offs, the four conference winners and four wildcards go forward. The wildcards are the next best three sides from the Australasian Group and the next best African Group team.

The four conference winners are seeded 1-4 ranked on overall competition points, with the wildcards seeded 5-8 ranked on competition points.

In the knockout quarter-finals, the higher ranked seeded teams have home advantage – seed 1 v 8, seed 2 v 7, seed 3 v 6, seed 4 v 5.

The highest winning seeds from those games will get home semi-finals. The highest seeded team plays the lowest seeded of the four in one semi-final, with the second highest seeded team hosting the second lowest team.

Let’s look at our magical crystal ball and flesh this format out to see what it may look like.

The winners of the four conferences are the Chiefs (1), Brumbies (2), Stormers (3) and Sharks (4) who go through to the play-offs ranked 1-4 on competition points.

The next best three Australasian sides are the wildcards ranked 5-7 in the Highlanders (5), Hurricanes (6) and Crusaders (7), with the Jaguares (8) the African group wild card.

MAGIC MOMENT: Highlanders co-captains Ben Smith, left, and Nasi Manu celebrate after winning last year’s Super Rugby final against the Hurricanes.

Three new teams have been added to the existing 15 from last year to make 18 in the 2016 Super Rugby competition – a sixth South African team (Southern Kings), a team from Argentina (Jaguares) and a team from Japan (Sunwolves).

An Australasian Group and African Group will house the teams with two conferences within each group. Four teams are in each African conference, five in the Australian conference and five in the New Zealand conference.

New teams the Southern Kings and the Jaguares will play in one African conference and the Sunwolves in the other.

Teams play six matches within their own conference and once against each team in the other conference in their group, plus each team from one of the conferences in the other group. They also have two byes each.

This year the New Zealand teams will play against African conference 2 teams Jaguares, Southern

SUPER RUGBY 2016 page 4

So the quarter-finals draw would be – home team first — Chiefs (1) v Jaguares (8), Brumbies (2) v Crusaders (7), Stormers (3) v Hurricanes (6), Sharks (4) v Highlanders (5).

If matches are won by the home teams, the semi-final draw is — home team first — Chiefs (1) v Sharks (4), Brumbies (2) v Stormers (3).

The highest seeded team would host the final so if the Chiefs and Brumbies both win their semi-finals, the Chiefs (1) would host the final.

The round-robin games will take place every weekend from February 26 to July 16 with a break for international matches during June, followed by the finals series at the end of July and the grand final on August 6.

The action begins with a double-header on Friday February 26 with defending champs the Highlanders taking on the Blues in Auckland before the Brumbies host the Hurricanes in Canberra.

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A NEW ERA BEGINS AT THE

By Peter White — The Blues begin their 2016 campaign effort last year. The talent is certainly there and a retur AUSTRALASIAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE

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IN CHARGE: Powerhouse flanker Jerome Kaino will again captain the Blues in 2016.

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AST YEAR: 14TH PLACE. There was obvious disappointment at the Blues performance.

Things could not have gone much worse — the Blues finished well behind the other New Zealand teams and second-last overall, having only three wins from 16 games.

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Coach: Tana Umaga Captain: Jerome Kaino Home ground: Eden Park Website: www.theblues.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketmaster.co.nz Contact: 30 Campbell Crescent Epsom, Auckland 1051 Phone 09 846 5425 Email: info@theblues.co.nz Blues TAB odds: $21.00

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Blues have an early test first-up against the champion Highlanders at Eden Park in round one. This is followed by the Crusaders away and then the Hurricanes at Eden Park.

They visit South African in rounds 11 and 12 against the lesser threats of the Kings and Lions.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: All Blacks legend Tana Umaga takes over from Sir John Kirwan as head coach of the Blues and is not predicting any immediate quick fix.

“I do not like talking about a new era. The Blues are only three-years-old as a standalone organisation. As such, a huge amount of work has been done, especially off the field, to put structures in place to be a competitive rugby team week-in

> EVENT TRANSPORT

HE BLUES

with realistic expectations following their poor n to winning ways may not be too far away.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Quentin MacDonald, Hoani Matenga, Tanerau Latimer, Kara Pryor, Gerrard Tuioti-Mariner.

Backs: Billy Guyton, Sam Nock, Rieko Ioane, Rene Ranger, Male Sa’u, Matt Duffie, Michael Little.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Greg Pleasants-Tate, Angus Ta’avao, Tony Woodcock, Keven Mealamu, Culum Retallick, Hayden Triggs, Luke Braid, Brendon O’Connor, Jimmy Cowan, Jamison Gibson-Park.

Backs: Daniel Bowden, Simon Hickey, Pita Ahki, Francis Saili, Matt Vaega, Frank Halai, Charles Piutau.

LIKELY FINISH: Last year’s campaign was the worst performance by a Blues team since Super Rugby began in 1996.

Their finish of 14th followed three previous finishes of 10th, 10th and 12th, so an improved performance is well overdue.

They could be an outside chance of a play-offs spot.

If you’re heading to see the Blues play at Eden Park visit

BLUES SQUAD Forwards: James Parsons, Matt Moulds, Quentin MacDonald, Nic Mayhew, Sam Prattley, Charlie Faumuina, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Sione Mafileo, Namatahi Waa, Patrick Tuipulotu, Gerrard Cowley-Tuioti, Hoani Matenga, Josh Bekhuis, Scott Scrafton, Jerome Kaino, Blake Gibson, Kara Pryor, Jack Ram, Steven Luatua, Akira Ioane, Joe Edwards, Tanerau Latimer.

Backs: Bryn Hall, Sam Nock, Billy Guyton, Ihaia West, Matt McGahan, Piers Francis, George Moala, Rene Ranger, Rieko Ioane, TJ Faiane, Afa Fa’atau, Michael Little, Tevita Li, Ben Lam, Melani Nanai, Lolagi Visinia, Male Sa’u, Matt Duffie, Jordan Trainor.

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week-out, year-in year-out,” Umaga says.

“A big part of this has been in the recruitment and development process and on changing attitudes.

We want players who aspire to be part of the Blues, who are proud to be here and who will work hard every day to do everything they can for this jersey.

“We can only control what we do, focus on ourselves and how we can perform. That means we need to work really hard every single training session, every day, and then translate to performance on the field. If we are able to do that, then where we finish on the table will be a by-product.”

The Blues have an excellent squad with a number of experienced players back and some of the country’s top young talent.

Umaga says most of the players are from the Blues region. A lot of work is going into recruiting and developing their own young players, which will take some time.

“We are a very young team, even many of our leadership group are still young. Obviously we have our captain Jerome Kaino and Charlie Faumuina to lead the way as All Blacks. Our leadership group includes the likes of Steven Luatua, James Parsons, Rene Ranger and Matt Duffie (ex-Melbourne Storm).

And we have guys like Tanerau Latimer and Male Sa’u coming in to provide some leadership and direction also.

“We have six players who have signed through to 2018 who are all under 20, like Melani Nanai who was our rookie of the year.

That’s exciting for our fans and our club.”

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CHIEFS LOOK TO GET BACK ON TOP

The Chiefs are primed for a big season with the aim of getting back into the winner’s circle after missing the last two semi-finals.

AST YEAR: FIFTH PLACE. Following back-to-back title wins in 2012 and 2013, the last two seasons have seen the Chiefs finish fifth. Last year they lost 24—14 to eventual champions the Highlanders in the play-offs.

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WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Siegfried Fisiihoi, Dominic Bird, Mitchell Karpik, Tom Sanders, Taleni Seu, James Tucker. Backs: Glen Fisiiahi, Chase Tiatia, Sam McNicol, Toni Pulu, Stephen Donald, Sam Vaka, Latu Vaeno, Shaun Stevenson.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The first four rounds see the Chiefs play the Crusaders in Christchurch, have a home game against the Lions, travel to South Africa to play the Kings followed by a trip to Buenos Aires to meet the Jaguares. New Plymouth has been allocated one home game with the return game against the Crusaders taking place in Suva, Fiji on July 1.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Jarrod Firth, Jamie Mackintosh, Ben Tameifuna, Quentin MacDonald, Michael Fitzgerald, Matt Symons, Ross Filipo, Liam Messam (Sevens), Sean Polwart, Liam Squire.

Backs: Hosea Gear, Bryce Heem, Tom Marshall, Tim Nanai-Williams, Marty McKenzie, Sonny Bill Williams (Sevens).

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Chiefs, led by head coach Dave Rennie, Andrew Strawbridge and new assistants Kieran Keane and Neil Barnes, have decided on two outstanding All Blacks to co-captain the team.

Missing the campaign are Sonny Bill Williams and Liam Messam who are away with the All Blacks Sevens; halfback Augustine Pulu, also with the Sevens, will possibly miss the start of the season. To fill the leadership void, Rennie has promoted Sam Cane and Aaron Cruden. It looks to be an inspired choice.

Cane grew up in the region and says the co-captaincy is a challenge he is excited about. “We’ve got a great mix of youth and experience in the squad and a lot of great leaders within the group who will support us and share the workload.”

Rennie is happy with the players he has assembled, with 26 returning and 14 new faces including Dominic Bird from the Crusaders and Sam McNicol from the Hurricanes.

“We’ve selected an outstanding group of men, high on character and competitive edge. The 14 new faces include Sam Vaka from the All Blacks Sevens side and Counties Manukau, and Mitch Karpik from the New Zealand Under-20s 2015 IRB Junior World Cupwinning team, who has been a stand out for Auckland in the ITM Cup and has now joined Bay of Plenty.

“James Tucker and Tom Sanders, both from the 2014 New Zealand Under-20s team, former Warrior Glen Fisiiahi, Taleni Seu from Auckland, Latu Vaeno from Taranaki and Bay of Plenty’s Chase Tiatia all become new Chiefs.”

Nepo Laulala ruptured knee ligaments at pre-season training and will miss the 2016 rugby season, while Bird misses the opening 10 weeks with a foot injury.

LIKELY FINISH: In recent seasons one of the first teams considered when predicting the champions is the Chiefs. This season is no different and despite losing Sonny Bill Williams and Liam Messam to the All Blacks Sevens there is real quality and depth to the squad. Potential finalists.

CHIEFS SQUAD Forwards: Maama Vaipulu, Johan Bardoul, Sam Cane, Mitch Karpik, Tevita Koloamatangi, Michael Leitch, Tom Sanders, Taleni Seu, Michael Allardice, Brodie Retallick, Dominic Bird, James Tucker, Siate Tokolahi, Atu Moli, Pauliasi Manu, Mitch Graham, Siegfried Fisiihoi, Hika Elliot, Rhys Marshall, Nathan Harris.

Backs: Shaun Stevenson, Damian McKenzie, Glen Fisiiahi, Chase Tiatia, Sam McNicol, Toni Pulu, James Lowe, Latu Vaeno, Sam Vaka, Seta Tamanivalu, Anton Lienert-Brown, Charlie Ngatai, Andrew Horrell, Aaron Cruden, Stephen Donald, Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Augustine Pulu, Brad Weber.

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE

NEW LEADER: Sam Cane will co-captain the Chiefs with Aaron Cruden in 2016.

Coach: Dave Rennie Co-captains: Sam Cane, Aaron Cruden Home grounds: FMG Stadium Waikato, Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth Website: www.chiefs.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketdirect.co.nz Contact: PO Box 4292, Hamilton East 3247 Phone 07 853 0231 Email: admin@chiefs.co.nz Chiefs TAB odds: $6.50

CRUSADERS DESPERATE FOR SILVERWARE

The last time the Crusaders won the Super Rugby title was back in 2008. Supporters are desperate to add to the record seven championships the franchise has won.

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE

TOP CLASS: Matt Todd will be the starting openside flanker for the Crusaders after Richie McCaw’s retirement.

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AST YEAR: SEVENTH PLACE. 2015 was a disappointing campaign for the Crusaders as they finished outside the play-offs for the first time since 2001.

The All Blacks-laden squad got off to a typically slow start but the usual late-season burst did not eventuate, the Rugby World Cup a major distraction.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Crusaders could not have asked for a better opportunity to get off to a flying start. They open their campaign with home games in the opening two rounds, against the Chiefs and Blues, followed by a bye and another home game against the unfancied Southern Kings.

change is in the backs with seven players introduced to the group, and there is plenty of attention on the three vying to fill Carter’s position: Richie Mo’unga, Fijian Ben Volavola and former Blues pivot Marty McKenzie.

“We have recruited really well. We have recruited good men like (flanker) Tim Boyes who has been around a bit, but I can see he is going to take his game to the next level,” Blackadder says. “Matt Todd seems really focused and re-energised and Ryan Crotty has turned up fitter than what he has ever been. Richie Mo’unga looks really capable standing in at 10 and (flanker) Pete Samu has really surprised us with his capacity. (Halfback) Leon Fukofuka is another one who has taken his training to a new level we haven’t seen before.

“There has been a level of hunger we probably haven’t felt in the last couple of pre-seasons.”

Israel Dagg, Jack Goodhue, Tim Perry and Jed Brown have medical exemptions and are in the squad but will not be available until April.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Michael Alaalatoa, Tim Boys, Peter Samu. Backs: Marty McKenzie, Richie Mo’unga, Ben Volavola, Sean Wainui, Sione Fifita, Mitchell Hunt.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Nepo Laulala, Dominic Bird, Richie McCaw, Luke Whitelock.

Backs: Billy Guyton, Willi Heinz, Dan Carter, Colin Slade, Tom Taylor, Nafi Tuitavake, Nathaniel Apa.

Coach: Todd Blackadder Captain: Kieran Read Home ground: AMI Stadium Website: www.crusaders.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketdirect.co.nz Contact: PO Box 755, Christchurch Phone: 03 379 8300 Email: info@crfu.co.nz Crusaders TAB odds: $8.00

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Todd Blackadder will mentor his men for the eighth and final season before he moves on to new challenges. With the departure of Richie McCaw and Dan Carter, Blackadder believes it is a great opportunity for the new group of players to step into their shoes and take on more responsibility.

“I think leadership is something we do really well and we are going to ask more to step-up. Dan and Ritchie cast very long shadows, so it is a really good opportunity for the Crusaders to move on and start our journey without those guys. I feel having the guys back earlier this year, we are a better team already,” Blackadder said.

The Crusaders have 11 new players and have promoted four from last year’s wider training group. The biggest

LIKELY FINISH: The Crusaders will miss on-field leaders like McCaw, Carter, Colin Slade, Tom Taylor and Dominic Bird but this may play into the team’s hands as there is now an opportunity for others to stand up. Blackadder’s farewell season will ensure there is plenty of motivation.

CRUSADERS SQUAD Forwards: Wyatt Crockett, Joe Moody, Alex Hodgman, Michael Alaalatoa, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Codie Taylor, Ged Robinson, Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Jimmy Tupou, Scott Barrett, Pete Samu, Jordan Taufua, Tim Boys, Matt Todd, Kieran Read. Backs: Andy Ellis, Mitchell Drummond, Ben Volavola, Richie Mo’unga, Marty McKenzie, David Havili, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Robbie Fruean, Nemani Nadolo, Jone Macilai, Sione Fifita, Johnny McNicholl, Sean Wainui, Mitchell Hunt.

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HIGHLANDERS CHASE BACK-TO-BACK TITLES

The Highlanders finally won the Super Rugby title for the first time last year. A repeat of that success is their goal in 2016 and with a settled side they have every chance of doing so.

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AST YEAR: CHAMPIONS. In 2014, the Highlanders made the play-offs for the first time since 2002. In 2015, they upset the highly fancied Hurricanes in Wellington to win their first Super Rugby title.

They played as a cohesive team, with the individual performances of All Blacks Aaron Smith and Ben Smith outstanding.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: They start with a trip to Eden Park to play the Blues and then face the Hurricanes at home at Forsyth Barr Stadium in a rematch of last year’s final. A trip to Argentina in July to play the Jaguares will be a highlight.

are prop Siosiua Halanukonuka (Tasman) and proven hooker Greg Pleasants-Tate (Auckland).

Northland flanker Dan Pryor proved he was capable of playing well at this level last year and he should continue to develop this campaign.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Siosiua Halanukonuka, Luke Whitelock, Liam Squire, Greg Pleasants-Tate.

Backs: Rob Thompson, Matt Faddes, Patelesio Tomkinson, Hayden Parker.

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE KEY PLAYER: All Black halfback Aaron Smith will again orchestrate the Highlanders’ attack.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Jamie Joseph has signed-on to coach Japan after six seasons at the helm of the Highlanders. He will take up this new role after the 2016 Super Rugby season. This will give his team even more motivation to go out and defend the title.

Expect plenty of fireworks from an outstanding backline. Four Highlanders backs were in the All Blacks Rugby World Cup-winning squad: Co-captains Aaron Smith (halfback) and Ben Smith (wing/fullback), plus winger Waisake Naholo and centre Malakai Fekitoa.

First-five Lima Sopoaga, 24, will be the key to unleashing these dangerous backs in attack. He re-signed with the Highlanders through to 2018 and has played 49 games. Last campaign he set a new season record of 191 points for the club.

“Lima has worked really hard in the past few seasons to develop his game — he has grown into a skilful first-five and become an important member of our team,” Joseph says. “What’s more exciting is that I don’t think he has achieved his full potential yet and is only going to get better.”

Young midfielders Rob Thompson (Canterbury) and Matt Faddes (Otago) step up to Super Rugby from ITM Cup, while Hayden Parker, now recovered from a serious shoulder injury, will add valuable back-up to Sopoaga. Japan international halfback Fumiaki Tanaka returns for his fourth season with the Highlanders.

The forwards will be as strong as ever despite the loss of experienced campaigners Nasi Manu and John Hardie. Joseph has recruited two outstanding replacements in Liam Squire (Chiefs) and Luke Whitelock (Crusaders). Other new men in the pack

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Ma’afu Fia, Kane Hames, Pingi Tala’apitaga, Joe Latta, John Hardie, Nasi Manu. Backs: Scott Eade, Shaun Treeby, Trent Renata, Kurt Baker.

LIKELY FINISH: The Highlanders start a new season as defending champs for the first time. They have the best backline in the competition and will be top contenders to repeat last year’s trip to the final.

HIGHLANDERS SQUAD Forwards: Alex Ainley, Shane Christie, Liam Coltman, Ash Dixon, Elliot Dixon, Brendon Edmonds, Gareth Evans, Tom Franklin, Ross Geldenhuys, Siosiua Halanukonuka, Jackson Hemopo, Josh Hohneck, Daniel Lienert-Brown, James Lentjes, Craig Millar, Greg Pleasants-Tate, Dan Pryor, Mark Reddish, Liam Squire, Luke Whitelock and Joe Wheeler.

Backs: Marty Banks, Richard Buckman, Jason Emery, Matt Faddes, Malakai Fekitoa, Waisake Naholo, Patrick Osborne, Hayden Parker, Josh Renton, Ben Smith, Aaron Smith, Lima Sopoaga, Fumiaki Tanaka, Rob Thompson, Patelesio Tomkinson, Ryan Tongia and Teihorangi Walden.

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Coach: Jamie Joseph Co-captains: Aaron Smith; Ben Smith Home ground: Rugby Park Stadium; Forsyth Barr Stadium Website: thehighlanders.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketdirect.co.nz Contact: PO Box 6070, Dunedin 9059 Phone: 03 479 9280 Email: contactus@ highlanders.net.nz Highlanders TAB odds: $8.00

HURRICANES SEEKING THAT WINNING FEELING The Hurricanes were hot favourites to win the final last year, played at home, only to fall to the Highlanders. They are determined to get it right in 2016.

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE PLAYMAKER: Dane Coles will captain the Hurricanes from hooker in 2016.

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AST YEAR: RUNNERS-UP. The Hurricanes won 14 of their 16 games, scored the most tries (58) and were 14 points clear of second-placed Waratahs. But the Highlanders won the final 21–14.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Hurricanes won’t wait long for revenge, meeting the Hurricanes in Dunedin in round two. It is one of three away games they have to start their campaign, beginning with a tough opener in Canberra against the Brumbies.

endure this long campaign. They will work closely with each other and share the leadership duties to make sure they can remain focused on their on-field performances as well.”

Boyd is pleased with the quality and experience of his strong-looking line-up; the 39-man squad comprises of 30 returning players and nine new faces. Waikato prop Loni Uhila, affectionately known as the Tongan Bear, is set to be a fan favourite.

“We’re very happy with the guys we have returning from last year, while we strongly believe the new players coming in will add some great value to our overall squad,” Boyd says.

All Blacks first-five contender Beauden Barrett will be the key to unlocking the brilliant attacking talents of players outside him — like Julian Savea, Cory Jane, Nehe Milner-Skudder and Vince Aso. The mercurial talents of Ardie Savea will be on show for the opening 10 rounds before he joins the All Blacks Sevens campaign.

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Loni Uhila, Tony Lamborn, Hisa Sasagi, Michael Fatialofa. Backs: Jamison Gibson-Park, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, TJ Va’a, Pita Ahki, Ngani Laumape.

Coach: Chris Boyd Captain: Dane Coles Home ground: Westpac Stadium Website: www.hurricanes.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketek.co.nz Contact: PO Box 7201, Wellington South Phone: 04 389 0020 Email: mail@wrfu.co.nz Hurricanes TAB odds: $6.50

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: All Blacks hooker Dane Coles has been handed the Hurricanes captaincy with fellow All Black and halfback TJ Perenara named as vice-captain. Joining in 2009, Coles has played 80 matches for the Hurricanes, and takes over from Conrad Smith — now playing in France.

Hurricanes head coach Chris Boyd says promoting Coles was a popular move within the squad.

“Dane is a proud and passionate Hurricanes player who has always led, and will continue to lead, by example,” Boyd says. “He is someone who’s totally committed to the club, what we stand for and what we’re trying to achieve. He’s highly respected by all the players because of the commitment and pride he shows around our camp, so we know he’s the right man for the job.”

Perenara was the obvious choice for vice-captain as he will counter-balance Coles’ leadership style.

“TJ is massively passionate about the Hurricanes and will be a great assistant to Dane as we get ready to

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Tolu Fahamokioa, Ben Franks, John Schwalger, Jeremy Thrush, Hayden Mitchell. Backs: Chris Smylie, Frae Wilson, Willis Halaholo, Rey Lee-Lo, Ma’a Nonu, Conrad Smith, Sam McNicol.

LIKELY FINISH: This is a strong squad with plenty of x-factor; most players have finals experience. The loss of midfield kings Conrad Smith and Ma’a Nonu will be sorely felt, but the team still looks to be strong final candidates.

HURRICANES SQUAD Forwards: Mark Abbott, Jeff Toomaga-Allen, Leni Apisai, James Broadhurst, Dane Coles, Geoffrey Cridge, Chris Eves, Michael Fatialofa, Vaea Fifita, Callum Gibbins, Reggie Goodes, Iopu Iopu-Aso, Tony Lamborn, Christian Lloyd, Motu Matu’u, Ben May, Hugh Renton, Hisa Sasagi, Ardie Savea, Brad Shields, Blade Thomson, Loni Uhila, Victor Vito.

Backs: Pita Ahki, Vince Aso, Beauden Barrett, Otere Black, Jamison Gibson-Park, Willis Halaholo, Cory Jane, Ngani Laumape, James Marshall, Nehe Milner-Skudder, TJ Perenara, Matt Proctor, Julian Savea, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, TJ Va’a, Jason Woodward.

FEEDING THE BACKS SINCE 1889.

OFFICIAL BEER

2016 SEASON’S DRAW

INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY Game Schedule

DATE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

ROUND 1

DATE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

ROUND 4

FRI, 26 FEB

Blues

v

Highlanders

Auckland

7:35 pm

FRI, 18 MAR

Hurricanes

v

Force

Palmerston North 7:35 pm

FRI, 26 FEB

Brumbies

v

Hurricanes

Canberra

9:40 pm

FRI, 18 MAR

Waratahs

v

Highlanders

Sydney

9:40 pm

SAT, 27 FEB

Cheetahs

v

Jaguares

Bloemfontein

6:00 am

SAT, 19 MAR

Bulls

v

Sharks

Pretoria

6:00 am

SAT, 27 FEB

Sunwolves

v

Lions

Tokyo

5:15 pm

SAT, 19 MAR

Sunwolves

v

Rebels

Tokyo

5:15 pm

7:35 pm

SAT, 19 MAR

Crusaders

v

Kings

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SAT, 27 FEB

Crusaders

v

Chiefs

Christchurch

SAT, 27 FEB

Waratahs

v

Reds

Sydney

9:40 pm

SAT, 19 MAR

Reds

v

Blues

Brisbane

9:40 pm

SAT, 27 FEB

Force

v

Rebels

Perth

11:50 pm

SUN, 20 MAR

Lions

v

Cheetahs

Johannesburg

4:05 am

SUN, 28 FEB

Kings

v

Sharks

Port Elizabeth

2:00 am

SUN, 20 MAR

Stormers

v

Brumbies

Cape Town

6:10 am

SUN, 28 FEB

Stormers

v

Bulls

Cape Town

4:05 am

SUN, 20 MAR

Jaguares

v

Chiefs

Buenos Aires

Crusaders

v

Blues

Christchurch

7:35 pm

FRI, 25 MAR

Hurricanes

v

Kings

Wellington

7:35 pm

SAT, 26 MAR

Chiefs

v

Force

Hamilton

7:35 pm

ROUND 2 FRI, 04 MAR

ROUND 5

TBC

EASTER WEEKEND

FRI, 04 MAR

Brumbies

v

Waratahs

Canberra

9:40 pm

SAT, 05 MAR

Chiefs

v

Lions

Hamilton

5:15 pm

SAT, 26 MAR

Rebels

v

Highlanders

Melbourne

9:40 pm

SAT, 05 MAR

Highlanders

v

Hurricanes

Dunedin

7:35 pm

SAT, 26 MAR

Sunwolves

v

Bulls

Singapore

11:50 pm

SAT, 05 MAR

Reds

v

Force

Brisbane

9:40 pm

SUN, 27 MAR

Cheetahs

v

Brumbies

Bloemfontein

2:00 am 4:05 am

SUN, 06 MAR

Bulls

v

Rebels

Pretoria

2:00 am

SUN, 27 MAR

Sharks

v

Crusaders

Durban

SUN, 06 MAR

Cheetahs

v

Stormers

Bloemfontein

4:05 am

SUN, 27 MAR

Jaguares

v

Stormers

Buenos Aires

SUN, 06 MAR

Sharks

v

Jaguares

Durban

6:10 am

SUN, 27 MAR

Reds

v

Waratahs

Brisbane

6:05 pm

BYES: Sunwolves, Kings

TBC

BYES: Blues, Lions

ROUND 3

ROUND 6

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND FINISHES

FRI, 11 MAR

Blues

v

Hurricanes

Auckland

7:35 pm

FRI, 01 APR

Highlanders

v

Force

Dunedin

7:35 pm

SAT, 12 MAR

Force

v

Brumbies

Perth

12:05 am

SAT, 02 APR

Lions

v

Crusaders

Johannesburg

6:00 am

SAT, 12 MAR

Highlanders

v

Lions

Dunedin

7:35 pm

SAT, 02 APR

Blues

v

Jaguares

Albany

7:35 pm

SAT, 12 MAR

Rebels

v

Reds

Melbourne

9:40 pm

SAT, 02 APR

Brumbies

v

Chiefs

Canberra

9:40 pm

SAT, 12 MAR

Sunwolves

v

Cheetahs

Singapore

11:50 pm

SUN, 03 APR

Kings

v

Sunwolves

Port Elizabeth

3:05 am

SUN, 13 MAR

Kings

v

Chiefs

Port Elizabeth

2:00 am

SUN, 03 APR

Bulls

v

Cheetahs

Pretoria

5:10 am

SUN, 13 MAR

Stormers

v

Sharks

Cape Town

4:05 am

SUN, 03 APR

Waratahs

v

Rebels

Sydney

6:05 pm

BYES: Jaguares, Bulls, Crusaders, Waratahs

BYES: Hurricanes, Reds, Sharks, Stormers

GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN YOUR CHOICE OF

1 OF 4 BIG PRIZES A BOAT, 2 JET SKIS, A UTE OR A TRIP FOR YOU & 3 MATES TO ARGENTINA FOR THE RUGBY

SUPER RUGBY 2016 page 16

superrugby.com

All times listed below are New Zealand local times and were correct at time of print.

For up-to-date information on Super Rugby 2016 visit superrugby.com

DATE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

ROUND 7

DATE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

ROUND 10

FRI, 08 APR

Chiefs

v

Blues

Hamilton

7:35 pm

FRI, 29 APR

Chiefs

v

Sharks

New Plymouth

7:35 pm

FRI, 08 APR

Force

v

Crusaders

Perth

11:00 pm

FRI, 29 APR

Force

v

Bulls

Perth

11:05 pm

SAT, 09 APR

Stormers

v

Sunwolves

Cape Town

5:00 am

SAT, 30 APR

Highlanders

v

Brumbies

Invercargill

5:15 pm

SAT, 09 APR

Hurricanes

v

Jaguares

Wellington

7:35 pm

SAT, 30 APR

Blues

v

Rebels

Auckland

7:35 pm

9:40 pm

SAT, 30 APR

Reds

v

Cheetahs

Brisbane

9:40 pm

SAT, 09 APR

Reds

v

Highlanders

Brisbane

SUN, 10 APR

Sharks

v

Lions

Durban

3:05 am

SUN, 01 MAY

Lions

v

Hurricanes

Johannesburg

3:05 am

SUN, 10 APR

Kings

v

Bulls

Port Elizabeth

5:10 am

SUN, 01 MAY

Stormers

v

Waratahs

Cape Town

5:10 am

SUN, 01 MAY

Jaguares

v

Kings

Buenos Aires

BYES: Brumbies, Cheetahs, Rebels, Waratahs

TBC

BYES: Crusaders, Sunwolves

ROUND 8

ROUND 11

FRI, 15 APR

Crusaders

v

Jaguares

Christchurch

7:35 pm

FRI, 15 APR

Rebels

v

Hurricanes

Melbourne

9:40 pm

FRI, 06 MAY

Crusaders

v

Reds

Christchurch

7:35 pm

Brumbies

v

Bulls

Canberra

9:40 pm

SAT, 16 APR

Cheetahs

v

Sunwolves

Bloemfontein

5:00 am

FRI, 06 MAY

SAT, 16 APR

Blues

v

Sharks

Auckland

7:35 pm

SAT, 07 MAY

Sunwolves

v

Force

Tokyo

5:15 pm

9:40 pm

SAT, 07 MAY

Chiefs

v

Highlanders

Hamilton

7:35 pm

SAT, 07 MAY

Waratahs

v

Cheetahs

Sydney

9:40 pm

SUN, 08 MAY

Sharks

v

Hurricanes

Durban

1:00 am

SUN, 08 MAY

Kings

v

Blues

Port Elizabeth

3:05 am

SAT, 16 APR SUN, 17 APR SUN, 17 APR

Waratahs Bulls Lions

v v v

Brumbies

Sydney Pretoria

Reds Stormers

3:05 am

Johannesburg

5:10 am

BYES: Chiefs, Force, Highlanders, Kings

BYES: Jaguares, Lions, Rebels, Stormers

ROUND 9

ANZAC DAY WEEKEND

FRI, 22 APR

Highlanders

v

Sharks

Dunedin

7:35 pm

FRI, 22 APR

Rebels

v

Cheetahs

Melbourne

9:40 pm

SAT, 23 APR

Sunwolves

v

Jaguares

Tokyo

5:15 pm

SAT, 23 APR

Hurricanes

v

Chiefs

Wellington

7:35 pm

SAT, 23 APR

Force

v

Waratahs

Perth

9:40 pm

SUN, 24 APR

Stormers

v

Reds

Cape Town

1:00 am

SUN, 24 APR

Kings

v

Lions

Port Elizabeth

3:05 am

SUN, 24 APR

Brumbies

v

Crusaders

Canberra

6:05 pm

BYES: Blues, Bulls

ROUND 12 FRI, 13 MAY

Highlanders

v

Crusaders

Dunedin

7:35 pm

FRI, 13 MAY

Rebels

v

Brumbies

Melbourne

9:40 pm

SAT, 14 MAY

Hurricanes

v

Reds

Wellington

7:35 pm

SAT, 14 MAY

Waratahs

v

Bulls

Sydney

9:40 pm

SAT, 14 MAY

Sunwolves

v

Stormers

Singapore

11:45 pm

SUN, 15 MAY

Cheetahs

v

Kings

Bloemfontein

3:05 am

SUN, 15 MAY

Lions

v

Blues

Johannesburg

5:10 am

SUN, 15 MAY

Jaguares

v

Sharks

Buenos Aires

TBC

BYES: Chiefs, Force

PLUS 90 000 INSTANT PRIZES SCRATCH TO BE IN TO WIN 1 OF OVER

,

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WITH

17 SUPER RUGBY 2016 Terms & conditions apply, promotion runs from 22 February - 6 August 2016. See your scratch & page win card for details or visit www.placemakers.co.nz

2016 SEASON’S DRAW

All times listed below are New Zealand local times and were correct at time of print.

For up-to-date information on Super Rugby 2016 visit superrugby.com

INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY Game Schedule continued GAME

DATE

VENUE

NZ TIME

DATE

ROUND 13

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

ROUND 15

FRI, 20 MAY

Crusaders

v

Waratahs

Christchurch

7:35 pm

FRI, 01 JULY

Chiefs

v

Crusaders

Suva, Fiji

7:35 pm

SAT, 21 MAY

Reds

v

Sunwolves

Brisbane

5:05 pm

FRI, 01 JULY

Brumbies

v

Reds

Canberra

9:40 pm

SAT, 21 MAY

Chiefs

v

Rebels

Hamilton

7:35 pm

SAT, 02 JULY

Sunwolves

v

Waratahs

Tokyo

5:15 pm

SAT, 21 MAY

Force

v

Blues

Perth

9:40 pm

SAT, 02 JULY

Hurricanes

v

Blues

Wellington

7:35 pm

SUN, 22 MAY

Lions

v

Jaguares

Johannesburg

1:00 am

SAT, 02 JULY

Rebels

v

Stormers

Melbourne

9:40 pm

SUN, 22 MAY

Sharks

v

Kings

Durban

3:05 am

SUN, 03 JULY

Cheetahs

v

Force

Bloemfontein

1:00 am

SUN, 22 MAY

Bulls

v

Stormers

Pretoria

5:10 am

SUN, 03 JULY

Kings

v

Highlanders

Port Elizabeth

3:05 am

BYES: Brumbies, Cheetahs, Highlanders, Hurricanes

SUN, 03 JULY

Lions

v

Sharks

Johannesburg

5:10 am

ROUND 14

SUN, 03 JULY

Jaguares

v

Bulls

Buenos Aires

TBC

FRI, 27 MAY

Hurricanes

v

Highlanders

Wellington

7:35 pm

ROUND 16

FRI, 27 MAY

Waratahs

v

Chiefs

Sydney

9:40 pm

FRI, 08 JULY

Blues

v

Brumbies

Auckland

7:35 pm

SAT, 28 MAY

Kings

v

Jaguares

Port Elizabeth

5:00 am

FRI, 08 JULY

Reds

v

Chiefs

Brisbane

9:40 pm

SAT, 28 MAY

Blues

v

Crusaders

Auckland

7:35 pm

SAT, 09 JULY

Lions

v

Kings

Johannesburg

5:00 am

SAT, 28 MAY

Brumbies

v

Sunwolves

Canberra

9:40 pm

SAT, 09 JULY

Crusaders

v

Rebels

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SUN, 29 MAY

Stormers

v

Cheetahs

Cape Town

1:00 am

SAT, 09 JULY

Waratahs

v

Hurricanes

Sydney

9:40 pm

SUN, 29 MAY

Bulls

v

Lions

Pretoria

3:05 am

SAT, 09 JULY

Force

v

Stormers

Perth

11:45 pm

SUN, 29 MAY

Rebels

v

Force

Melbourne

6:05 pm

SUN, 10 JULY

Bulls

v

Sunwolves

Pretoria

3:05 am

SUN, 10 JULY

Sharks

v

Cheetahs

Durban

5:10 am

SUN, 10 JULY

Jaguares

v

Highlanders

Buenos Aires

FRI, 15 JULY

Blues

v

Waratahs

Auckland

7:35 pm

Reds

v

Rebels

Brisbane

9:40 pm

BYES: Reds, Sharks

HOW SUPER RUGBY WORKS

TBC

ROUND 17

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP

FRI, 15 JULY

AUSTRALIAN

AFRICA 01

SAT, 16 JULY

Sharks

v

Sunwolves

Durban

5:00 am

SAT, 16 JULY

Crusaders

v

Hurricanes

Christchurch

5:15 pm

SAT, 16 JULY

Highlanders

v

Chiefs

Dunedin

7:35 pm

SAT, 16 JULY

Brumbies

v

Force

Canberra

9:40 pm

SUN, 17 JULY

Stormers

v

Kings

Cape Town

3:05 am

SUN, 17 JULY

Cheetahs

v

Bulls

Bloemfontein

5:10 am

SUN, 17 JULY

Jaguares

v

Lions

Buenos Aires

CONFERENCE

NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE

AFRICA 02

CONFERENCE

CONFERENCE

BRUMBIES

BLUES

BULLS

JAGUARES

FORCE REBELS

CHIEFS CRUSADERS

CHEETAHS STORMERS

KINGS LIONS

REDS

HIGHLANDERS

SUNWOLVES

SHARKS

WARATAHS

HURRICANES

THE FINALS SUPER RUGBY QUARTER-FINALS

06

MATCHES WITHIN YOUR OWN CONFERENCE

04

17

THE REGULAR SEASON

05

MATCHES AGAINST ANOTHER CONFERENCE FROM THE AUSTRALASIAN GROUP

MATCHES AGAINST ANOTHER CONFERENCE FROM THE SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP

ROUNDS IN TOTAL

02

22/23 JULY

Team 1

v

Team 8

22/23 JULY

Team 2

v

Team 7

22/23 JULY

Team 3

v

Team 6

22/23 JULY

Team 4

v

Team 5

SUPER RUGBY SEMI-FINALS 29/30 JULY

F irst-seeded quarter-final winner

v

F ourth-seeded quarter-final winner

29/30 JULY

S econd-seeded quarter-final winner

v

T hird-seeded quarter-final winner

BYES

Each team plays a balance of home and away games (8 home, 7 away, or vice versa).

Fans will get to see more games under the new structure while teams will play one fewer and have two byes across a 17-week season. For a more comprehensive explanation of how the Super Rugby competition is structured, visit superrugby.com

SUPER RUGBY FINAL SAT, 6 AUGUST

v H IGHER RANKED SEMI-FINAL WINNER

L OWER RANKED SEMI-FINAL WINNER

NB: Times, dates and venues subject to change

GO IN THE DRAW TO WIN YOUR CHOICE OF

1 OF 4 BIG PRIZES A BOAT, 2 JET SKIS, A UTE OR A TRIP FOR YOU & 3 MATES TO ARGENTINA FOR THE RUGBY

PLUS SCRATCH TO BE IN TO WIN 1 OF OVER

WITH

TBC

90,000 INSTANT PRIZES

SIMPLY HEAD IN-STORE, MAKE A QUALIFYING PURCHASE TO RECEIVE YOUR SCRATCH CARD Terms & conditions apply, promotion runs from 22 February - 6 August 2016. See your scratch & win card for details or visit www.placemakers.co.nz

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LET THE LOVE OF RUGBY TAKE YOU PLACES! 21st Golden Oldies World Rugby Festival – Cardiff 21st - 28th August, 2016 It’s Golden Oldies Rugby’s 21st birthday and you’re invited to the party! Rugby enthusiasts 35 years and above will enjoy a parade of nations, three games of rugby and two fantastic functions on the field at Millennium Stadium (recently renamed Principality Stadium).

Hosted by Cardiff Rugby Club, featuring over 100 teams from 20 countries and centred on Cardiff Arms Park.

Join Festival Patron, Nigel Owens and the Welsh Rugby Legends at a true celebration of rugby in a great rugby city.

World Schools Rugby Challenge Canberra 16th - 23rd April, 2017 “Inclusive and not exclusive”, sanctioned by the Australian Rugby Union, supported by the Brumbies and based at the Australian Institute of Sport, the World Schools Rugby Challenge offers an opportunity for all schools to give their pupils a unique sporting, cultural and educational experience.

Lectures by world class rugby experts at the Australian Institute of Sport, four games in a leading rugby centre and the cultural and educational experience of the impressive capital city of Australia.

“I am pleased to give my personal support and endorsement for the inaugural World Schools Rugby Challenge. I know that the information that the Australian Institute of Sport imparts will be of the absolute highest standards. Rugby has afforded me the opportunity to travel the world and have some unforgettable experiences. There is no reason why this shouldn’t be the start of a similar path for some of the young rugby talent who come to Canberra. At the very least it will help them experience greater enjoyment at whatever level they play”.

– Stephen Larkham, Challenge Ambassador

8th World Vintage Rugby Carnival – Ottawa 20th - 27th August, 2017 Join us in Ottawa, the celebrated capital of Canada, for the 2017 World Vintage Rugby Carnival - part of the 150th year national celebrations. A strong rugby tradition combined with great facilities and enthusiastic local clubs ensures a unique rugby opportunity for teams, players and supporters from all around the world. Teams will be treated to three games of rugby at the superb Twin Elms Park, two great social functions at the City Hall and EY Centre and an outstanding rugby experience.

Golden Oldies Trans-Tasman Rugby Festival – Hunter Valley 15th – 20th June, 2016 The beautiful Hunter Valley will be the centre of the Golden Oldies TransTasman Rugby Festival.

Players aged 35 years and above and their supporters will enjoy a unique opportunity to play rugby amongst the vines at Tatler Winery hosted by the Hunter Valley Harlequins.

At VSL Rugby nothing is left to chance. The rugby, accommodation, transfers and functions are all planned and co-ordinated for your team with our packages offering great value for money.

Rugby experiences created by rugby enthusiasts.

To enter now or for more details

check out www.govsl.com/rugby or email rugby@govsl.com

VSL Rugby, Level 1, 8a Anzac St, PO Box 331469, Takapuna 0740.

Telephone: 09 486 1644

www.govsl.com/rugby

THE AUSTRALIAN TEAM PREVIEWS

By PETER WHITE

FIERCE RIVALS: The clash between the Reds and Waratahs is always a highlight of the Australian conference.

BRUMBIES

Last year: Semi-finalists Coach: Stephen Larkham Captain: Stephen Moore Home ground: Canberra Stadium Website: www.brumbies.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Contact: Building 29, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, 2617. Phone +61 2 6260 8588

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

Brumbies TAB odds: $8.50 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Brumbies look to be highly competitive in 2016. They made the semi-finals last year, losing to the Hurricanes in Wellington.

They have a settled side, with arguably the best squad depth assembled in Canberra for a decade. The loss of Wallaby halfback Nic White to Montpellier is offset with the recruitment of Argentina international Tomas Cubelli. Even though Wallabies Matt Toomua and skipper Stephen Moore are leaving at the end of this season, they are sure to be influential players.

NEW SOUTH WALES WARATAHS

Last year: Semi-finalists Coach: Daryl Gibson Captain: Dave Dennis Home ground: Allianz Stadium Website: www.waratahs.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Contact: Locked Bag 1222, Paddington, Sydney, NSW 2021 Phone: +61 2 9323 3300 Waratahs TAB odds: $8.50

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Former Crusaders assistant coach Daryl Gibson takes over as head coach of an impressive squad, one that is more than capable of winning the title.

Last year the Waratahs lost to eventual champions the Highlanders at semi-final stage, and look almost certain to finish as one of the top two teams in the Australian conference.

Adam Ashley-Cooper’s move to France is a massive loss, not just because of his try-scoring ability but his overall influence in the team. Recruiting Hawke’s Bay winger

superrugby.com

The Brumbies have the strongest overall forward pack in the Australian conference and are a squad full of international talent, including Christian Lealiifano, Scott Sio, Scott Fardy and Tevita Kuridrani.

In World Cup star David Pocock they have one of the world’s very best openside flankers. His dominance at the tackled ball will be crucial in determining the Brumbies’ final position.

Wellington-born flyer Nigel Ah Wong is one of a group of talented youngsters who will look to make their mark in 2016. Ah Wong can play in any of the outside back positions and is a former flanker.

Reports out of Canberra reveal a desire to play a more expansive style of rugby, with head coach Stephen Larkham indicating that is the way to contest the title. The Brumbies have played a conservative style of game in reaching the last two semi-finals, where their lack of try-scoring flair has counted against them.

The other factor the Brumbies have going for them is Canberra Stadium, which is one of the most difficult ground for opposing teams to win at.

Zac Guildford must be seen as a calculated risk by coach Gibson, who has worked with the troubled former All Black before. Guildford was a proven try scorer for the Crusaders, so if he can recapture that finishing ability he could be a real asset to the Waratahs. Reece Robinson is another pacy outside back who joins from the NRL team, Parramatta Eels.

Gibson is keen to get superstar Israel Folau more involved in the game and will shift him from fullback to centre, which could be one of the key strategic changes of this year’s competition. Folau will link with fellow Wallabies in first-five Bernard Foley, second-five Kurtley Beale and winger Rob Horne, a highly potent attacking trio.

Halfback Matt Lucas is well regarded after playing for the Waratahs in 2013.

Powerful No.8 Wycliff Palu is a major signing, after injury curtailed his Japanese season. The experienced 33-year-old will be a key leader in the team. Prop Angus Ta’avao brings his 48 caps with the Blues to the front row, and joins Paddy Ryan, Benn Robinson and Tatafu Polota-Nau. page 21 SUPER RUGBY 2016

THE AUSTRALIAN TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 21 QUEENSLAND REDS

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

WESTERN FORCE

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

MELBOURNE REBELS

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

Last year: 13th place Coach: Richard Graham Captain: James Slipper Home ground: Suncorp Stadium Website: www.redsrugby.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Contact: PO Box 205, Kelvin Grove DC, Brisbane, QLD 4059 Phone: +61 7 3354 9333 Reds TAB odds: $41.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Reds slumped to 13th place last campaign. They have a decent enough squad, highlighted

by Wallabies representatives and 2015 Rugby World Cup finalists James Slipper, Rob Simmons and Greg Holmes, plus former Waratahs and Leinster lock Kane Douglas.

Like the Brumbies, the Reds have indicated a willingness to play a more expansive game after last year’s disappointing season.

“One of our main goals at the Reds is to play a brand of rugby that all Queenslanders can be proud of, whether you’re a

rugby fan or not, you can walk away from a game proud of us – whatever the result,” team captain Slipper says.

“That’s something we’re striving for and it’s influencing our training at the moment. We’re looking forward to having a good crack this year.”

The Reds have retained 20 players from the 2015 squad and eight others have progressed from the elite development squad. Following their performances in Queensland Premier Rugby and the National Rugby Championship (NRC), first-five Sam Greene and outside backs Junior Laloifi and Izaia Perese earned contracts.

Karmichael Hunt has had a checkered career to date, but is a huge talent who could well be a match-winner in the midfield. Also adding to the strong midfield depth is former Australian Schoolboys star Lagi Setu, who played 76 games over a nine-year career in the NRL, most recently with the Sydney Roosters.

Former All Black and Crusaders star Brad Thorn has joined the Reds as a development coach and, at the age of 40, has not ruled out playing again in 2016.

Last year: 15th place Coach: Michael Foley Captain: Matt Hodgson Home ground: nib Stadium Website: www.westernforce.com.au Tickets: www.ticketmaster.com.au Contact: PO Box 146, Floreat, WA 6014 Phone +61 8 9387 0700 Western Force TAB odds: $101.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Force finished in 15th place last season, so the only way is up. Although they won just three of their games they were competitive and difficult to beat at home in Perth.

This year’s draw sees the Force have seven home games – these will be targeted by head coach Michael Foley as crucial to the team’s season prospects. Foley says the disappointment of last season’s bottom-of-the-ladder finish, coming after their best-ever results in 2014, has seen the club rethink its aims this season.

“We are going into this season with a lot of ambition, no question. We are not looking to find what a pass mark looks like, but we are looking to go in and be successful and win,” Foley says.

“While physicality will remain key to winning the contests for possession, we will be looking to play with greater speed and ball movement in 2016.”

Their key new signing is Springbok first-five Peter Grant, the third most accurate kicker in Super Rugby history boasting an 80 per cent success rate.

Also newly recruited are experienced backs Ben Tapuai and Jono Lance, who join the established trio of Kyle Godwin, Dane Haylett-Petty and Luke Morahan. World Cup Wallaby Ben McCalman will return to the Force from the Wild Knights once the Japanese season is over.

The Force have a more-than-promising replacement for lock Sam Wykes (Japan) in Adam Coleman. Highly regarded hooker Heath Tessmann will start his fourth campaign.

Manawatu Turbos speedster Semisi Masirewa will make his Super Rugby debut for the Force.

Last year: 10th place Coach: Tony McGahan Captain: Scott Fuglistaller Home ground: AAMI Park Website: www.melbournerebels.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Contact: PO Box 29, Parkville, VIC 3052 Phone: +61 300 4673 2357 Melbourne Rebels TAB odds: $61.00

Development tighthead prop Ryan Cocker and Australian Sevens utility back Paul Asquith are other useful new additions.

Dynamic halfback Nic Stirzaker could well find himself in a Wallaby jumper later in the year. He is the best passing halfback in Australia, after the departures of Will Genia and Nic White, and should spark a dangerous backline for the Rebels. Former North Harbour star Mike Harris is a reliable goalkicker.

For the first time in the Rebels’ five-year history, two Victorian players Sione Tuipulotu and Rob Leota have been signed in a significant move to encourage homegrown players.

The draw is hard on the Rebels to start with; they have trips to Perth, Pretoria and Tokyo in the opening four rounds of the season, with just one home game at AAMI Park breaking up the long-distance travel. They will be the first Australasian Super Rugby team to travel to Tokyo to face the new Japanese franchise the Sunwolves.

The Rebels played Manu Samoa at home and the Blues in Auckland in two highly competitive pre-season games, to get their intensity up.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Melbourne Rebels finished 10th last year; their seven wins and nine losses formed a solid season that so easily could have been better, if some close results had gone their way.

They are seen as potential play-off contenders and certainly have a strong squad. The loss of inspirational captain Scott Higginbotham to Japan is countered by the signing of quality forwards James Hanson, former All Black Adam Thomson, Blues lock Culum Retallick and Jamie Hagan. Chiefs

superrugby.com

page 23 SUPER RUGBY 2016

ARGENTINIAN & JAPANESE TEAM PREVIEWS

WORLD CLASS: Pumas star Juan Martin Hernandez will lead the Jaguares backline.

SUNWOLVES

BIG CHALLENGE: Former Hurricanes coach Mark Hammett is in charge of the Sunwolves in their debut season.

Last year: Did not participate

As it is, the exploits of the Cherry Blossoms under Eddie Jones at the global showpiece will ensure that, at the very least, the Sunwolves command respect. Ten of the 34 players in their squad played for Japan at the World Cup.

They may well find plenty of inspiration from their foreign contingent. Among those are Samoan first five-eighth Tusi Pisi, South African fullback Riaan Viljoen and Argentine lock Tomas Leonardi. Pisi and Viljoen are in the twilight of their careers at 33 and 32 respectively, but their experience will no doubt be useful. Leonardi, 29, should bring some steel to a pack that will be targeted because of a perceived lack of physicality.

It’s difficult to foresee the Sunwolves running the big sides close, but they have a shrewd enough coach in Mark Hammett.

They’ve done well with the draw, starting with four home games. Unfortunately those are divided between separate bases: Tokyo and Singapore.

If nothing else, the Sunwolves will be a good vehicle for growing the game. A likely target for an early victory is their second fixture against the Cheetahs in Tokyo. If they can draw blood and command respect early in the competition, they might harness some support.

Nonetheless, for the Sunwolves in their inaugural season it’s difficult to predict anything but a last-place finish in their conference.

Last year: Did not participate Coach: Raúl Pérez Captain: Agustin Creevy Home ground: Estadio José Amalfitani Website: www.jaguares.com.ar Tickets: www.uar.com.ar/tickets Contact: Av. Juan B. Justo 8900, C1408AKR CABA, Argentina Phone +54 11 4641 3310 Jaguares TAB odds: $13.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: There was little to fear from Argentina when they entered the Rugby Championship in 2012. Fast forward to 2016 and they are no longer a side that has to resort to spoiling to be in with a shout. At their best, they carry a threat in every department.

During last year’s Rugby Championship, they announced their arrival as a competitive force with a 37–25 victory over South Africa in Durban.

With the Jaguares studded with the Pumas players that performed so admirably in last year’s Rugby Championship

and at the World Cup, they are primed to make a big impression with their entry into Super Rugby.

It’s fitting that their entry point is a South African conference. South Africa have historically been at the forefront of developing the game in Argentina and even allowed a team to participate in their domestic Vodacom Cup for a few seasons.

Among those who used their South African experience as a springboard is Jaguares and Pumas captain Agustin Creevy, who played for the Pampas XV in 2010 and 2011.

Nicolas Sanchez, a habitually troublesome force at flyhalf for most opponents, also cut his teeth in South Africa in 2011 when the Pampas won the Vodacom Cup. With numerous Pumas in their ranks, the Jaguares won’t be overawed by any opponent and they may well have a good shot of pipping the Lions, Sharks and Kings to finish at the top of their conference.

However, the variables that may affect their performances are as yet unknown. In the meantime, not even New Zealand’s pride will see them fail to take the Jaguares seriously.

Coach: Mark Hammett Captain: Shota Horie Home grounds: C hichibunomiya Stadium, Tokyo; Singapore National Stadium, Singapore.

Website: www.super-japanrugby.com Tickets: www.super-japanrugby.com/ticket Contact: Aoyama AIE, AIE Building 4F, 2-7-21, Kitaaoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Phone +81 120 639 021

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

LOS JAGUARES

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

SUPER RUGBY 2016 page 24

By STEPHEN NELL

Sunwolves TAB odds: $501.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Had Japan not produced a sensational upset over South Africa at the Rugby World Cup, the Sunwolves would probably have been dismissed as minnows ahead of their entry into Super Rugby.

superrugby.com

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THE SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM PREVIEWS

TOP CLASS: Utility back Jesse Kriel is one of the Bulls’ best attacking players.

BLUE BULLS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

CENTRAL CHEETAHS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

SUPER RUGBY 2016 page 26

By STEPHEN NELL

YOUNG GUN: Cheetahs winger Sergeal Petersen is regarded as a future Springbok.

Last year: Ninth place Coach: Nollis Marais Captain: Adriaan Strauss Home ground: Loftus Versfeld Stadium Website: www.thebulls.co.za Tickets: www.ticketpros.co.za Contact: PO Box 27856, Sunnyside, 0132 Phone +27 12 420 0700 Bulls TAB odds: $16.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: For years, the Bulls have been rugby’s ultimate pragmitists. It’s an empire built on playing percentages — execution over innovation.

Having crunched the numbers, however, the conclusion that they too will need to embrace a brand of rugby in which players can express themselves, as opposed to being forced into a rigid pattern, has been drawn.

The signs that coach Nollis Marais is a believer in a multi-skilled approach were there during last year’s Currie Cup, with the Blue Bulls playing some splendid attacking rugby.

Marais, who has replaced Frans Ludeke as coach, has every intention of staying on that path.

“We’ll stick to an expansive plan for the next four years.

The important thing is to get the players’ buy-in and we’ve got that,” Marais says.

Given the change of mindset, Marais is probably not perturbed about the departure of long-serving players locks Victor Matfield and Flip van der Merwe, as well as last year’s skipper and first choice No.8, Pierre Spies.

They are old dogs who might not have been prepared to learn new tricks.

The Bulls have not made high-profile signings, but their party trick is generally to sign South Africa’s best young players. First five-eighth Handré Pollard and centre Jesse Kriel will be the key men at the back, and the Bulls have proven front-row players in hooker Adriaan Strauss, and props Trevor Nyakane and Marcel van der Merwe.

Strauss will lead a side that is only likely to reach maturity next year and beyond, but they’ll entertain and may bloody a few big noses.

Last year: 12th place Coach: Franco Smith Captain: Francois Venter Home ground: Free State Stadium Website: www.fscheetahs.co.za Tickets: www.fsrugby.appwizard.co.za Contact: PO Box 15, Bloemfontein, 9300 Phone +27 51 4071700 Cheetahs TAB odds: $101.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Cheetahs don’t have thick wallets and consequently are always struggling against the odds.

It will probably be no different this year. They will have to soldier on without previous leading lights such as prop Coenie Oosthuizen, flank Heinrich Brüssow, and speed merchants Willie le Roux and Cornal Hendricks.

Nonetheless, the Cheetahs still have the ability to make it an uncomfortable afternoon for any team visiting Bloemfontein.

They may not have been able to afford high-profile acquisitions, but will build around a solid leadership group: locks Lood

de Jager and Francois Uys, loose forwards Oupa Mohoje, Willie Britz and Boom Prinsloo, and centre Francois Venter.

The Cheetahs have recruited two talented players to compete for the flyhalf position in Sias Ebersohn (Western Force) and Fred Zeilinga (Sharks).

Coach Franco Smith has appointed Venter as captain. “He’s one of the guys who never gave up last year. He leads through the way he plays and captaincy won’t impact negatively on his game,” says Smith.

Last year was indeed traumatic with the Cheetahs leaking a staggering 531 points in 16 matches.

“Getting our defence up to scratch is a priority. We had a few bad habits last year and we’ve worked on getting the players physically stronger. We’ll have to look after our possession so that we don’t spend so much time tackling,” says Smith.

Given that Smith is a young coach, the departure of senior players may not be an entirely bad thing.

“In years gone by we lost key players at crucial times. Now is the right time as it gives us the opportunity to build a new generation,” he says. superrugby.com

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THE SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 26 STORMERS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

LIONS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

SOUTHERN KINGS

Last year: Third place Coach: Robbie Fleck Captain: To be announced Home ground: DHL Newlands Website: www.thestormers.com Tickets: www.thestormers.com/tickets Contact: Newlands Terraces, 8 Boundary Road, Newlands 7700 Phone +27 21 659 4500 Stormers TAB odds: $11.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: It was a public relations coup when the Stormers announced the signing of Eddie Jones as their new coach — two days after Japan humiliated the Springboks at the Rugby World Cup. However, less than three weeks after his arrival in Cape Town, it was announced that Jones would take the reins at England.

Director of Rugby Gert Smal put forward the name of former All Blacks coach John Mitchell, but the Western Province board refused to sanction the appointment of a man with

a record of rubbing both employers and players up the wrong way.

And so the Stormers are left with an interim arrangement — long-time assistant coach Robbie Fleck, whose only experience as head coach is with the Western Province Under-21 side last year, will be in charge.

As far as playing personnel, the Stormers are heading in a new direction in this area too. Long-serving captain and second five-eighth Jean de Villiers has gone to Leicester and No.8 Duane Vermeulen is now with Toulon.

The acquisition of lock Pieter-Steph du Toit from the Sharks is a coup, while wing Cornal Hendricks, prop JC Janse van Rensburg and scrumhalf Jano Vermaak are also welcome additions.

Fleck’s biggest headache is the absence of an experienced first five-eighth and specialist openside flank. One fears for them at breakdown and with regards to decision-making.

The appointment of Fleck is likely to herald a more attacking approach and in this transitional year it helps that the Stormers do not have league matches against New Zealand teams.

Last year: Eighth place Coach: Johan Ackermann Captain: Warren Whiteley Home ground: Emirates Airline Park Website: www.lionsrugby.co.za Tickets: www.lionsrugby.computicket.com Contact: PO Box 15724, Doornfontein North, Johannesburg, 2028. Phone +27 11 4022960 Lions TAB odds: $31.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: One shouldn’t read too much into performances in a domestic competition, but the Lions will carry some confidence with them into Super Rugby after securing the Currie Cup with 12 straight victories.

Unfortunately, the Super Rugby draw has been unkind to them as they have to play against all the New Zealand sides, none of which are weak.

Of all the South African sides, however, the Lions are the best equipped to take the Kiwis on at their strengths. They play a delicious attacking-brand of rugby.

Their relative success has its roots in continuity. The Lions did not contribute a single player to South Africa’s World Cup campaign and therefore have been able to continue building on a solid base.

Under coach Johan Ackermann, they have pleasantly surprised, rather than excelled, in Super Rugby. Of course, the element of surprise is now gone.

The Lions have again opted to grow organically instead of making big signings. Keep an eye on the development of tighthead prop Julian Redelinghuys, loose forwards Jaco Kriel and Warren Whiteley, and halfback Faf de Klerk.

While the Lions have the spirit to push any team, they won’t appreciate having to play the Chiefs and Highlanders in New Zealand, early in their campaign. “We only have four days in Japan to prepare for our opening match against the Sunwolves and from there we head to New Zealand. Apart from the rugby, it’s going to be a logistical challenge,” says Ackermann.

“However, the players know my approach. We need to be able to take on anyone at any time.”

Last year: Did not participate Coach: Deon Davids Captain: To be announced Home ground: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Website: www.eprugby.co.za Tickets: www.ticketpros.co.za Contact: PO Box 13111, Port Elizabeth, 6013 Phone +27 41 4088902 Southern Kings TAB odds: $151.00

Cheeky Watson, the EPRU’s politically-connected president, talked his way out of trouble with the promise of the biggest Super Rugby-sponsorship in the history of South African rugby.

Nothing materialised and Saru eventually intervened as it sensed embarrassment on an epic scale. This allowed Saru to take the franchise away from the EPRU, reducing Watson to a peripheral figure as far as his influence over Super Rugby is concerned. His son, Luke, was not among the players contracted by Saru.

There is a core squad of 20 players – mostly promising youngsters. The Kings are also likely to have former Bulls halfback Francois Hougaard available when he’s off duty from the Springbok Sevens, but that is yet to be confirmed.

Saru’s High Performance Unit, led by Rassie Erasmus, has been hard at work in Port Elizabeth to sharpen a squad bereft of world-class players. Deon Davids, former head coach of Boland, will be at the helm in what will no doubt be a difficult season.

Unsustainable as it is, Saru’s intervention was a welcome move.

However, one still has an overwhelming feeling that these so-called “Kings” will end up being no more than court jesters.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The old saying, “Be careful what you wish for because it may come true” springs to mind when discussing the Southern Kings.

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

Having pushed hard for a sixth team to solve a political problem, the South African Rugby Union (Saru) was finally granted its wish.

The franchise was to be run by the Eastern Province Rugby Union (EPRU), but it ran into financial hardship and failed to pay players’ salaries several times, beginning in July last year.

superrugby.com

page 29 SUPER RUGBY 2016

THE SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 29

MR VERSATILE:​ Andries Coetzee​’s ability to play three backline positions will be an asset to the Lions.​

THE SHARKS

STAR QUALITY: Cheslin Kolbe is a renowned counter attacker from fullback​​.

Last year: 11th place Coach: Gary Gold Captain: Patrick Lambie Home ground: Growthpoint Kings Park Website: www.sharksrugby.co.za Tickets: www.sharksrugby.computicket.com Contact: PO Box 307, Durban, 4000 Phone +27 31 3088400 The Sharks TAB odds: $13.00

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Some might be pessimistic about their chances given the Sharks have lost some long-serving Springboks, but don’t be surprised if there is an improvement in their fortunes this year.

Brothers Jannie and Bismarck du Plessis — for the last several seasons the first-choice tighthead prop and hooker, respectively — have joined Montpellier, as has second five-eighth François Steyn. Bruising No.7 flank Willem Alberts has gone to Stade Francais and ’Bok lock Pieter-Steph du Toit

INTERNATIONAL: Lwazi Mvovo will bring his experience​​with the Springboks to the Sharks in 2016.​

to the Stormers. Du Toit, at just 23, is the biggest loss given the stage of his career.

The Sharks have done well on the recruiting front. Coenie Oosthuizen is a terrific prop who is comfortable on either side of the scrum. They have also bagged ’Bok fullback Willie le Roux and powerful ball-carrying flanker Jacques Potgieter.

On top of that, head coach Gary Gold has enjoyed the benefit of a full pre-season with his side. Last year he slotted in late after completing his duties in Japan.

Gold is, of course, a man under pressure after the Sharks failed to spark in both Super Rugby and the Currie Cup, last year.

“It’s important that we play with enthusiasm and intent,” he says, cognisant of the fact that their faithful are running out of patience.

Patrick Lambie has been appointed captain and Gold is excited about what he has to offer. “He’s very much in the mould of Gary Teichmann — cool, calm and collected.”

A paper assessment suggests the Sharks offer South Africa’s best hope, and there can be no excuses after this campaign.

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