Super Rugby 2017

YOUR FREE GUIDE TO THE 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SEASON

oliverlee.co.nz

For the greatest Subaru drivers in the world: New Zealanders.

New Zealanders were born to do more: to seek out places where the air is clear even if the phone reception isn’t. Where features like All-Wheel Drive, X-Mode and EyeSight aren’t so much nice as they are a necessity. And where one in three roads are more dirt than road. Which explains why more Subarus are driven per capita

in this country than almost anywhere in the world. And now we are proud to present the all-new Outback, the greatest car for the greatest drivers. To book your test drive call 0800 SUBARU or visit your local Subaru Authorised Dealer.

*2.5i Sport Recommended Retail Pricing (RRP) including GST but excluding on-road costs and accessories.

subaru.co.nz

Pictured: Outback 3.6R Premium

Starting from only

44,990

$

*

+ ORC

SUB//6851A

GET YOUR GAME FACE ON! OUR NEW LOOK OASIS CATALOGUE IS READY TO TAKE ON THE BIGGEST CHALLENGES

17 SUMMER 2017

17 20 MM SUER 20ER SUMM

OUT NOW Packed full of inspiration, our exclusive Toto and Astivita lines and our Bathroom Planner, Oasis is the best way to start your new project. Grab a copy instore or view online at plumbingworld.co.nz

Branches Nationwide.

Freephone 0800 800 686 plumbingworld.co.nz

#loveplumbing

WELCOME TO YOUR FREE GUIDE TO THE 2017 INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY SEASON

Managing Editor:

Oliver Lee

Contributing Writers:

Peter White Stephen Nell Proofreading:

Elise McDowell

SUPER RUGBY 2017 CONTENTS 20 24 06 BRUMBIES AND WARATAHS PREVIEW

BLUES AFTER CONSISTENCY

LAST 08 CHIEFS: FOR RENNIE

JAGUARES AND SUNWOLVES PREVIEW

BULLS 27 THE AND CHEETAHS

1 0 CRUSADERS: NEW LEADERS

UP CLOSE AND 29 LIONS STORMERS

Photography:

PREVIEW

photosport.nz Production:

13 HIGHLANDERS W ANT FINALS

ONTIME Associates Printing:

PMP Auckland

RUGBY

Publisher: Box 331-667, Takapuna, Auckland 0740, New Zealand Phone: 09 486 6966 Email: oliver@oliverlee.co.nz Website: oliverlee.co.nz

14

HURRICANES TO DEFEND TITLE

ON THE 22 FOCUS REDS, FORCE AND REBELS

16 to 17

INVESTEC

SUPER RUGBY

DRAW SMART: 1 8 RUGBY FOLLOW SOME TIPS AND ADVICE FROM SONNY BILL WILLIAMS

LOOK 30 AATCLOSE THE SHARKS

AND KINGS

NOTE: The TAB odds quoted throughout the magazine were correct on 10 February 2017. For the latest updated odds visit tab.co.nz

ISSN 2463-5499 (Print) ISSN 2463-5502 (Online)

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.

TACKLE ANYTHING with THE STABICRAFT 2100ST IGNORE TIDES - NO TRAILERS - GO ANYWHERE

0800 SEALEGS sealegsrecreational.com/stabicraft

BLUES ADD DEPTH TO THEI For quality hire equipment visit any of our 18 branches across NZ!

By Peter White — Tana Umaga made an impressive sta excellent mix of experience and some of the best youn AUSTRALASIAN GROUP LAST YEAR: NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE COMPETITION: 11TH PLACE. BLUES

Coach: Tana Umaga Co-captains: Jerome Kaino and James Parsons Home grounds: Eden Park, Auckland; QBE Stadium, Albany Website: www.theblues.co.nz Tickets: www.ticketmaster.co.nz Contact: PO Box 77012, Mt Albert, Auckland 1350 Phone 09 846 5425 Email: info@theblues.co.nz Blues TAB odds: $16.00

Or you can hire directly online!

We’re here to help make your job easy

0800 470 370

kennardshire.co.nz KH507_1702

NZ CONFERENCE: FIFTH PLACE. There was obvious improvement from the year before. The Blues won eight games compared to three in 2015, proving to be highly competitive in the New Zealand Conference.

Their end of season form was particularly strong, with a magnificent performance in their loss to eventual champions the Hurricanes — a sign of their potential.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: Not ideal for the Blues as they have eight games before their first bye. Three of their first four are away from home to the Rebels, Chiefs and Crusaders.

A highlight will be the Blues taking on the Reds in Samoa on Friday, June 2.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: All Blacks legend Tana Umaga would have learned plenty last year about what is needed to get the Blues back to finals contention.

The Blues have an excellent squad with a healthy number of All Blacks and experienced campaigners. But, crucially, they have also recruited well, which Umaga knows is fundamental to Super Rugby success.

RICH TALENT Rieko Ioane will be a key attacking force for the Blues.

“We have more depth, which is crucial in this competition especially as we have eight straight games before our first bye. We also have attracted some experienced players who wanted to come back home to Auckland.

“The likes of Jimmy Tupou, Augustine Pulu and Pauliasi Manu have already added

EVENT TRANSPORT

R SQUAD

rt to his stint as Blues head coach last year. He has an g talent in the country to work with.

“Overall though the key is to develop our sense of team and unity, which will carry us through rather than the ability of any one player. We only want players here who want to be with the Blues, and who are very proud to be part of this rugby club, and likewise develop young players in our region who aspire to be with the Blues first and foremost.”

Umaga is realistic about where the Blues will finish in 2017.

“Our aspirations are no different from last year. We want to pick up where we left off in 2016.

We want to be competitive in each game and in the competition and we want to improve every week. Let’s not forget we were last in the New Zealand Conference in 2016 so we have a long way to go.”

The Blues have rejigged their coaching set-up, which Umaga says will simplify things.

“We have adopted a more simple structure to our coaching group this year with a back coach, forward coach and defence coach, plus a fulltime skills coach and our mental skills coach.

“I never stopped coaching and I love coaching both on the field and leading our team of coaches and support staff. I don’t like to make things too complicated.

Rugby remains a simple game.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Alex Hodgman, Pauliasi Manu,

Epalahame Faiva, Josh Goodhue, Brandon Nansen, Murphy Taramai, Jimmy Tupou.

Backs: Augustine Pulu, Michael Collins, Sonny Bill Williams, Declan O’Donnell, Stephen Perofeta.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Nic Mayhew, Namatahi Waa, Quentin MacDonald, Josh Bekhuis, Hoani Matenga, Joe Edwards, Tanerau Latimer, Jack Ram. Backs: Bryn Hall, Matt McGahan, Male Sa’u, Afa Fa’atau, Ben Lam, Tevita Li, Michael Little, Lolagi Visinia.

LIKELY FINISH: Expectations are always high in the Blues catchment area, but fortune has been hiding with the team finishing 11th, 14th, 10th, 10th and 12th in the last five years. But they are realistic contenders for a play-offs spot this campaign.

BLUES SQUAD Forwards: Gerard Cowley-Tuioti, Epalahame Faiva, Charlie Faumuina, Blake Gibson, Josh Goodhue, Alex Hodgman, Akira Ioane, Jerome Kaino, Steven Luatua, Sione Mafileo, Pauliasi Manu, Matt Moulds, Brandon Nansen, James Parsons, Sam Prattley, Kara Pryor, Scott Scrafton, Murphy Taramai, Patrick Tuipulotu, Jimmy Tupou, Ofa Tu’ungafasi.

Backs: Michael Collins, Matt Duffie, TJ Faiane, Billy Guyton, Rieko Ioane, Matt Vaega, George Moala, Melani Nanai, Sam Nock, Declan O’Donnell, Stephen Perofeta, Augustine Pulu, Rene Ranger, Jordan Trainor, Ihaia West, Sonny Bill Williams, Piers Francis.

If you’re heading to see the Blues play at Eden Park... remember that travel on trains and special event buses is included with your ticket.

For more information visit AT.govt.nz/events

J002116 Super Rugby 2017 Half Page

much off-the-field. Clearly once fit, Sonny Bill Williams is a world-class player for the Blues for the next three years.

CHIEFS CHASING ANOTHER TITLE

The Chiefs would love to farewell long-term coach Dave Rennie in style and get back into the winner’s circle for the first time since 2013.

Last season the Chiefs trialled dual captains in AUSTRALASIAN GROUP LAST YEAR: Sam Cane and Aaron Cruden. Rennie says it was NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE COMPETITION: SIXTH PLACE. CHIEFS Coach: Dave Rennie Co-captains: Sam Cane and 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 0800 424 4337 Email: info@chiefs.co.nz Chiefs TAB odds: $5.00

NZ CONFERENCE: THIRD PLACE. Following back-to-back title wins in 2012 and 2013, the Chiefs looked on-track for another finals appearance until they lost 25–9 to eventual champions the Hurricanes in the semi-final.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Chiefs open with three full-blooded New Zealand derbies — they go up against the Highlanders away and the Blues and Hurricanes at home. Two highlights are the rematch of last year’s game against the Crusaders in Fiji on May 19 and the much anticipated clash with the British and Irish Lions on June 20.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: There will be no lack of motivation for the Chiefs players in head coach Dave Rennie’s sixth and final season in charge.

“We had a pretty young squad last year with 15 new Chiefs so there was a hell of a lot of learning for all of us,” Rennie says. “I know those boys coming back have a far better idea of the intensity of Super Rugby and their knowledge and skill sets will be a lot better.

So it is pretty exciting from our point of view but every side wants to win it.”

Rennie says they also learned a lot about dealing with the travel factor ahead of last year’s semi-final against the Hurricanes.

“We have looked at how we dealt with the travel coming back from Africa and whether we got our week right in preparation and whether we tried to do too much. There were little things around our game dealing with the line speed that the Hurricanes brought that day we need to do better.

“But we are incredibly proud of what the group did last year.”

INSPIRATIONAL: Aaron Cruden is set for a starring role for the Chiefs at first-five.

Rennie has a typically strong squad for this campaign, but with the added improvement of getting the experienced Liam Messam and Tim Nanai-Williams back in the fold.

“It is awesome. It is great to have those guys back and they are both really excited about wearing the Chiefs jersey again. Liam has played 140-odd games and Tim 80-odd, so that sort of experience and their passion for the jersey is really important to us.”

successful and will be used again this season.

“People wonder about co-captains but 40-plus players played for us last year. It is a massive job for one guy so having co-captains they share responsibility, they feed off each other and I think they did a fantastic job.”

Rennie coached the Chiefs to a thumping of Wales last year. He says the players are all looking forward to the match with the British and Irish Lions.

“A lot of our guys may never play international footy so this is a great opportunity and a chance to measure yourself. The Lions will be incredibly strong and we are all excited to be part of that.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Kane Hames, Sefo Kautai, Liam Polwart, Mitchell Brown, Lachlan Boshier, Liam Messam. Backs: Finlay Christie, Johnny Fa’auli, Tim Nanai-Williams, Solomon Alaimalo.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Pauliasi Manu, Siate Tokolahi, Hiroshi Yamashita, Rhys Marshall, Johan Bardoul, Sam Henwood, Tevita Koloamatangi, Maama Vaipulu. Backs: Augustine Pulu, Kayne Hammington, Andrew Horrell, Seta Tamanivalu, Latu Vaeno, Sam Vaka.

LIKELY FINISH: The Chiefs have been touted as champions ever since Rennie’s boys won back-to-back titles in 2012 and 2013. They came close last year and the return of double title winners Messam and Nanai-Williams could make the difference in 2017.

Potential champions.

CHIEFS SQUAD Forwards: Siegfried Fisi’ihoi, Mitchell Graham, Kane Hames, Sefo Kautai, Nepo Laulala, Atu Moli, Hika Elliot, Nathan Harris, Liam Polwart, Michael Allardice, Dominic Bird, Brodie Retallick, James Tucker, Mitchell Brown, Lachlan Boshier, Sam Cane, Mitchell Karpik, Michael Leitch, Liam Messam, Tom Sanders, Taleni Seu. Backs: Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Finlay Christie, Brad Weber, Aaron Cruden, Stephen Donald, Damian McKenzie, Johnny Fa’auli, Anton Lienert-Brown, Tim Nanai-Williams, Charlie Ngatai, Solomon Alaimalo, Glen Fisiiahi, James Lowe, Sam McNicol, Toni Pulu, Shaun Stevenson, Chase Tiatia.

MAKE THE RIGHT CALL JUST LIKE I DID...

Choosing a new garage door doesn’t have to be tough, but the door has to be. It needs to provide protection for your home and security for your family. At the end of the day it’s all about trust. Make the right call – Talk to Dominator for a Free Measure & Quote.

TALK TO

Dominator.co.nz / 0800 Dominator

CRUSADERS HAVE NEW LEADERSHIP

The Crusaders last won the Super Rugby title back in 2008, which is something new head coach Scott Robertson and captain Sam Whitelock are determined to put right in this campaign.

“Young George Bridge is a winger who has come AUSTRALASIAN GROUP LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: SEVENTH PLACE. through from the Canterbury set-up. It is his first NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE CRUSADERS Coach: Scott Robertson Captain: Sam Whitelock 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: $5.50

NZ CONFERENCE: FOURTH PLACE. It was a disappointing campaign for the Crusaders.

They finished seventh overall and fourth in the New Zealand conference, after making their traditional slow start before finishing strongly.

In the quarter-finals they drew a trip to South Africa to play the Lions, which proved one hurdle too many.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Crusaders have the Brumbies, Blues and Force at home in their opening six games before their first bye. The British and Irish Lions match comes a week before their final-round match-up away to the champion Hurricanes, which may well decide their finals position.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: New head coach Scott Robertson takes over from Todd Blackadder after a successful reign with Canterbury and New Zealand Under-20 teams.

Robertson is a popular character with a simple coaching philosophy. “My job is to make people better.

That can be on and off the field. I have to create an environment that people can be themselves and get expertise around me to help me do that.

“I understand the expectation that comes along with the Crusaders role as a former player and now as a coach. It is good because we have been successful before with a rich history to add to who we are.”

The Crusaders always have one of the strongest squads on paper and this year is no exception.

Robertson says they have real depth, especially in the backs, with the recruitment of Bryn Hall, Tim Bateman, Seta Tamanivalu and Digby Ioane to join Ryan Crotty and Israel Dagg.

INSPIRATIONAL: Lock Sam Whitelock takes over from Kieran Read as captain of the Crusaders.

“That is an area we have worked hard to create a little bit of competition so we can get the best out of players. You need depth in this competition as it is a long competition with a lot of travel. We have the majority of an All Black forward pack with a lot of experience and some quality leaders.”

Robertson has a proven record of bringing through young players at New Zealand Under-20 and Mitre 10 Cup levels. Many of the newer players in the Crusaders squad have come through that pathway.

year in the Super Rugby set-up. He is explosive with a talented left foot. Jack Goodhue has an opportunity to add to last year amongst some quality young backs. Digby Ione is an excitement machine and will be a crowd favourite I am sure.

“Tim Bateman returning to the fold [from Japan] is going to bring a lot of experience into our backline and give us that depth, which is the strongest we have had for a few years. His knowledge and understanding of the game and his ability to play multiple positions is critical for us.

“We have a lot of hungry players who want to make their own history in their time that they have the jersey on.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Oliver Jager, Andrew Makalio, Quinten Strange, Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, Jed Brown. Backs: Bryn Hall, Tim Bateman, Seta Tamanivalu, George Bridge, Digby Ioane, Manasa Mataele.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Alex Hodgman, Ged Robinson, Jimmy Tupou, Tim Boys, Reed Prinsep. Backs: Andy Ellis, Ben Volavola, Kieron Fonotia, Robbie Fruean, Johnny McNicholl, Nemani Nadolo.

LIKELY FINISH: The Crusaders are due. There is no doubt about that and they should make the semi-finals.

Look for a more open style under coach Robertson.

CRUSADERS SQUAD Forwards: Michael Alaalatoa, Wyatt Crockett, Oliver Jager, Joe Moody, Tim Perry, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Andrew Makalio, Codie Taylor, Scott Barrett, Luke Romano, Quinten Strange, Sam Whitelock, Heiden Bedwell-Curtis, Jed Brown, Mitchell Dunshea, Kieran Read, Pete Samu, Jordan Taufua, Matt Todd.

Backs: Mitchell Drummond, Leon Fukofuka, Bryn Hall, Tim Bateman, Marty McKenzie, Richie Mo’unga, Ryan Crotty, Jack Goodhue, David Havili, Seta Tamanivalu, Sean Wainui, George Bridge, Israel Dagg, Sione Fifita, Mitchell Hunt, Digby Ioane, Jone Macilai, Manasa Mataele.

GoughCat.co.nz | Phone 0800 93 39 39 | Connect with us

EXCLUSIVE GLOBAL PARTNER

THE OFFICIAL ENTERTAINMENT VENUE OF THE BNZ CRUSADERS! All BNZ Crusaders games shown live on our screens throughout the venue! Including on our two 208” LCD walls in High Definition Picture on the Main Gaming Floor and in Monza Sports Bar!

The Grand Café

Valley Bar

Mains from $17 with delicious,

Ideal place to meet up and enjoy our live local entertainment every weekend!

classic dishes cooked just the way you love!

Monza Sports Bar A Sports Bar with style and 1/2 metre pizzas, tasty BBQ ribs & a full bar!

Chi Kitchen Cantonese inspired menu straight from the wok!

www.christchurchcasino.co.nz 0800 CASINO I 30 Victoria St I Christchurch I Dress Code Applies I R.O.A.R

OFFICIAL HOSPITALITY & EVENTS Official and exclusive match day hospitality programme for the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017 proudly brought to you by All Blacks Hospitality.

Secure your hospitality packages today for this highly sought after series of rugby events, which pits the best of the Northern Hemisphere against the reigning World Champion All Blacks, New Zealand Super Rugby teams, Maori All Blacks and a New Zealand Provincial Barbarians team. We have designed a range of exciting options from formal seated dining through to informal, affordable stand-up hospitality packages for rugby fans.

Purchase your official hospitality packages online at:

www.allblackshospitality.co.nz Phone: +64 9 304 0355 // Email: info@allblackshospitality.co.nz

HIGHLANDERS START NEW REIGN

Last season the Highlanders lost a pulsating semi-final to the Lions in South Africa after a difficult travel schedule. Their squad is full of quality players with plenty of match-winners, and they have a new head coach — the popular Tony Brown.

Brown has been particularly pleased with the LAST YEAR: AUSTRALASIAN GROUP progress shown by new tighthead prop Siate COMPETITION: SEMI-FINALISTS. NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE NZ CONFERENCE: SECOND PLACE. The Highlanders won in Canberra for the first time in 10 years when they beat the Brumbies to make the semi-finals. But when the Crusaders fell to the Lions in Johannesburg, the Highlanders had to travel to South Africa where the Lions ended their hopes of back-to-back titles.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: They start with not-tobe-missed home fixtures against the Chiefs and Crusaders, plus host the Blues at home before their first bye in round eight. The South Africa leg is in rounds 11 and 12 with a home match against the Reds to finish.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: One of the Highlanders’ favourite sons, Tony Brown, steps up from assistant coach to head coach. He replaces Jamie Joseph, who is now Japan’s head coach.

Brown says his coaching style is all about being innovative and smart, plus trying to get the best out of the players.

“What has happened over the last two or three years has been my style and that probably won’t change a lot,” Brown says. “There are obviously things that we want to improve on and things we have put in place to improve our game, but 90 to 95 per cent of our game will be similar.

“Every team going in to the competition wants to make the play-offs and obviously we will want to do that. Everything we are preparing for and the way we play the game is about us making the play-offs and having a crack at the title.”

The Highlanders have a top-class squad with an outstanding backline featuring Aaron Smith, Ben Smith, Lomi Sopoaga, Malakai Fekitoa, Waisake Naholo and Patrick Osborne, plus a mobile, aggressive pack.

Brown says playing as a team is definitely their strength.

“It doesn’t matter who puts on the jersey. Everyone who plays fronts up for us and we get the best out of our players. If you look at our team we have gone from having one All Black to eight All Blacks and that is an example of that.”

UP TO

off per litre*

Tokolahi from Canterbury.

“We have been really impressed with Siate. He has come in and trained really well. He has fitted into our environment easily and we are hoping for a good season from him after losing a couple of props last year.”

One late enforced change in the backline sees first-five Marty Banks back in the team after putting his contract with Italy’s Benetton Treviso on hold, following another season-ending knee injury to Hayden Parker.

“Marty has been with us two years now so when Hayden fell over we put out an SOS call and luckily enough he was able to organise his contract to do another Super Rugby season,” Brown says. “For the Highlanders, it is a massive win to get someone of that experience to come in as one of our three first-fives.”

HIGHLANDERS Coach: Tony Brown Co-captains: Ben Smith and Ash Dixon Home grounds: Forsyth Barr Stadium; Rugby Park 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: $5.50

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Guy Millar, Siate Tokolahi, Josh Dickson, Aki Seiuli. Backs: Kayne Hammington, Tevita Li, Josh Renton.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Brendon Edmonds, Ross Geldenhuys, Josh Hohneck, Mark Reddish.

Backs: Jamie Booth, Fumiaki Tanaka, Te Aihe Toma, Ryan Tongia, Jack Wilson.

LIKELY FINISH: The Highlanders are rated third favourites at the TAB and certainly will be top contenders to make the final. If they can nail a home semi, then a repeat of their 2015 championship is likely.

HIGHLANDERS SQUAD Forwards: Liam Coltman, Ash Dixon, Greg Pleasants-Tate, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Siosuia Halanukonuka, Guy Millar, Siate Tokolahi, Aki Seiuli, Craig Millar, Tom Franklin, Joe Wheeler, Alex Ainley, Josh Dickson, Jackson Hemopo, Luke Whitelock, Liam Squire, James Lentjes, Gareth Evans, Dan Pryor, Shane Christie, Elliot Dixon.

Backs: Aaron Smith, Kayne Hammington, Josh Renton, Lima Sopoaga, Marty Banks, Fletcher Smith, Rob Thompson, Patelesio Tomkinson, Teihorangi Walden, Richard Buckman, Matt Faddes, Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Patrick Osborne, Tevita Li, Jason Emery, Ben Smith.

TOP CLASS: First-five Lima Sopoaga has a key role in controlling the backline of the Highlanders.

HURRICANES AFTER BACK

The Hurricanes finally put years of frustration behin last year. Now they want to win it again.

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP NEW ZEALAND CONFERENCE HURRICANES

SUPPORT THE CANES THIS SEASON FROM

THE BEST SEATS HOUSE

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@hurricanes.co.nz Hurricanes TAB odds: $4.00

IN THE

HOSPITALITY AND CORPORATE BOX PACKAGES ON SALE NOW • Premium seating in our dedicated hospitality spaces • Buffet or platter menus • Extensive drinks selection • VIP gate entry • Personal service • Access before and after the match

HOSPITALITY PACKAGES $

149 inc GST pp*

* Available at New Zealand derby games only.

Excludes all beverages.

CORPORATE BOX PACKAGES

from $249 + GST pp

FRONT RUNNER: Hurricanes captain Dane Coles leads by example.

DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017 packages also available

RESERVE YOURS TODAY WS0041B

P (04) 473 3881 corporateboxes@westpacstadium.co.nz

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: CHAMPIONS. NZ CONFERENCE: FIRST PLACE. The Hurricanes beat the Chiefs 25–9 in the key semi-final before outclassing the gallant Lions 20–3 in the final. While Beauden Barrett single-handedly won crucial games with a series of dazzling performances, the Hurricanes’ success was due to a concerted effort from all the players and an outstanding coaching group led by Chris Boyd.

LUCK OF THE DRAW: The Hurricanes begin in Tokyo against the Sunwolves before the first of eight home games this campaign. They finish with two home games against the Chiefs and Crusaders, which may well decide the 2017 finalists.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Chris Boyd is not getting carried away with being defending champions. Far from it in fact. His down-to-earth pragmatism and that of his captain Dane Coles augers well for their 2017 campaign.

Boyd took plenty of learnings from last season and, despite the glorious finale, has found plenty to work on — particularly from two heavy defeats.

“There were things that are positive that you want to hang on to and things that you weren’t happy about you want to get out of your season. We had two games we were really bad in where we got thumped by the Brumbies and the Sharks.

Those poor performances we want to get out of our repertoire.

“It is important to find the momentum that we had at

-TO-BACK TITLES

d them by winning their first Super Rugby title the back end of the season in the early part of this season and continue on.”

Boyd has kept most of last year’s champion squad with potential match-winners right across the playing group. He is delighted with how well the Hurricanes’ development programme is working.

“Clearly to pick up Jordie Barrett and Reed Prinsep from outside the area filled a couple of holes. But one of the things that has been highly satisfying for us is that we have 15 boys who have been though our training environment since November who are all locals and 21 or younger. So it is more the development rather the recruitment we are most happy about.”

The Hurricanes have some of the competition’s best attacking players in All Blacks Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara, Ardie and Julian Savea and Nehe MilnerSkudder. They also form part of an impressive group of outstanding leaders.

“We have a really experienced group of leaders sitting behind that group, like Brad Shields, Jeff Toomaga-Allen, Reggie Goodes and Blade Thomson,” Boyd says. “The really encouraging thing is we have got another layer again of really young potentials.

“One of the things about last year was, sure, we had a number of key players playing well, but the young rookies and the not-so-fancied guys stood up and did an outstanding job for us. Guys like Loni Uhila, Michael Fatialofa, Vaea Fifita and Ricky Ricciteli stood up

and we have an expectation now they are a year older that they will continue to make a contribution to the club.”

WHO’S NEW: Forwards: Sam Lousi, Toa Halafihi, Reed Prinsep. Backs: Kylem O’Donnell, Jordie Barrett, Ben Lam, Peter Umaga-Jensen.

WHO’S THROUGH: Forwards: Hisa Sasagi, Motu Matu’u, James Blackwell, Christian Lloyd, Iopu Iopu-Aso, Tony Lamborn, Victor Vito.

Backs: Jamison Gibson-Park, James Marshall, TJ Va’a, Willis Halaholo, Jason Woodward.

LIKELY FINISH: Hurricanes squads in the past have lacked the ability to win a Super Rugby title. Now that has been achieved there may be no stopping them, with them having arguably the strongest squad in the competition. The TAB has them favourites to retain their title, which they richly deserve.

HURRICANES SQUAD Forwards: Chris Eves, Reggie Goodes, Ben May, Jeff ToomagaAllen, Loni Uhila, Mike Kainga, Dane Coles, Leni Apisai, Ricky Ricciteli, Mark Abbott, James Broadhurst, Geoff Cridge, Michael Fatialofa, Sam Lousi, Callum Gibbins, Vaea Fifita, Reed Prinsep, Hugh Renton, Ardie Savea, Brad Shields, Blade Thomson, Toa Halafihi.

Backs: TJ Perenara, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Kylem O’Donnell, Beauden Barrett, Otere Black, Vince Aso, Ngani Laumape, Matt Proctor, Pita Ahki, Wes Goosen, Cory Jane, Julian Savea, Ben Lam, Nehe Milner-Skudder, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Jordie Barrett.

GAIN TERRITORIAL ADVANTAGE

Guarantee your Wellington tickets to the DHL New Zealand Lions Series 2017

ALL SPORT* ALL YEAR

Contact us today to discuss your membership options: P (04) 470 0416 E members@westpacstadium.co.nz *Terms and Conditions Apply. Excludes World Cup type events.

WS0041A

www.westpacstadium.co.nz/members

2017 SEASON’S DRAW

THE INVESTEC SUPER RUGBY GAME SCHEDU GAME

DATE

VENUE

NZ TIME

DATE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

ROUND 5

ROUND 1 THU, 23 FEB

Rebels

v

Blues

Melbourne

9:45 pm

FRI, 24 MAR

Crusaders

v

Force

Christchurch

7:35 pm

FRI, 24 FEB

Highlanders

v

Chiefs

Dunedin

7:35 pm

FRI, 24 MAR

Rebels

v

Waratahs

Melbourne

9:45 pm

FRI, 24 FEB

Reds

v

Sharks

Brisbane

10:00 pm

SAT, 25 MAR

Blues

v

Bulls

Albany

7:35 pm

SAT, 25 FEB

Sunwolves

v

Hurricanes

Tokyo

5:15 pm

SAT, 25 MAR

Brumbies

v

Highlanders

Canberra

9:45 pm

SAT, 25 FEB

Crusaders

v

Brumbies

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SAT, 25 MAR

Sunwolves

v

Stormers

Singapore

11:55 pm

SAT, 25 FEB

Waratahs

v

Force

Sydney

9:45 pm

SUN, 26 MAR

Kings

v

Lions

Port Elizabeth

2:05 am

SUN, 26 FEB

Cheetahs

v

Lions

Bloemfontein

2:05 am

SUN, 26 MAR

Cheetahs

v

Sharks

Bloemfontein

4:15 am

SUN, 26 FEB

Kings

v

Jaguares

Port Elizabeth

4:15 am

SUN, 26 MAR

Jaguares

v

Reds

Buenos Aires

10:40 am

SUN, 26 FEB

Stormers

v

Bulls

Cape Town

6:30 am

BYES: Chiefs, Hurricanes

ROUND 6

ROUND 2

DAYLIGHT SAVINGS FINISHES IN AUSTRALIA AND NZ

THU, 02 MAR

Force

v

Reds

Perth

11:30 pm

FRI, 31 MAR

Highlanders

v

Rebels

Dunedin

7:35 pm

FRI, 03 MAR

Chiefs

v

Blues

Hamilton

7:35 pm

SAT, 01 APR

Blues

v

Force

Auckland

5:15 pm

SAT, 04 MAR

Hurricanes

v

Rebels

Wellington

5:15 pm

SAT, 01 APR

Chiefs

v

Bulls

Hamilton

7:35 pm

SAT, 04 MAR

Highlanders

v

Crusaders

Dunedin

7:35 pm

SAT, 01 APR

Reds

v

Hurricanes

Brisbane

9:45 pm

SAT, 04 MAR

Brumbies

v

Sharks

Canberra

9:45 pm

SUN, 02 APR

Stormers

v

Cheetahs

Cape Town

2:05 am

SAT, 04 MAR

Sunwolves

v

Kings

Singapore

11:55 pm

SUN, 02 APR

Lions

v

Sharks

Johannesburg

3:15 am

SUN, 05 MAR

Lions

v

Waratahs

Johannesburg

2:05 am

SUN, 02 APR

Waratahs

v

Crusaders

Sydney

6:05 pm

SUN, 05 MAR

Stormers

v

Jaguares

Cape Town

4:15 am

BYES: Brumbies, Jaguares, Kings, Sunwolves

SUN, 05 FEB

Cheetahs

v

Bulls

Bloemfontein

6:30 am

ROUND 3

ROUND 7 FRI, 07 APR

Hurricanes

v

Waratahs

Wellington

7:35 pm

FRI, 10 MAR

Chiefs

v

Hurricanes

Hamilton

7:35 pm

SAT, 08 APR

Sunwolves

v

Bulls

Tokyo

5:15 pm

FRI, 10 MAR

Brumbies

v

Force

Canberra

9:45 pm

SAT, 08 APR

Highlanders

v

Blues

Dunedin

7:35 pm

Auckland

7:35 pm

SAT, 08 APR

Brumbies

v

Reds

Canberra

9:45 pm 1:05 am

SAT, 11 MAR

Blues

v

Highlanders

SAT, 11 MAR

Reds

v

Crusaders

Brisbane

9:45 pm

SUN, 09 APR

Sharks

v

Jaguares

Durban

SUN, 12 MAR

Kings

v

Stormers

Port Elizabeth

2:05 am

SUN, 09 APR

Stormers

v

Chiefs

Cape Town

3:15 am

SUN, 12 MAR

Cheetahs

v

Sunwolves

Bloemfontein

4:15 am

SUN, 09 APR

Force

v

Kings

Perth

6:05 pm

BYES: Cheetahs, Crusaders, Lions, Rebels

SUN, 12 MAR

Sharks

v

Waratahs

Durban

6:30 am

SUN, 12 MAR

Jaguares

v

Lions

Buenos Aires

8:40 am

BYES: Bulls, Rebels

ROUND 4

ROUND 8

EASTER WEEKEND

FRI, 14 APR

Crusaders

v

Sunwolves

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SAT, 15 APR

Reds

v

Kings

Brisbane

5:05 pm

FRI, 17 MAR

Crusaders

v

Blues

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SAT, 15 APR

Blues

v

Hurricanes

Auckland

7:35 pm

FRI, 17 MAR

Rebels

v

Chiefs

Melbourne

9:45 pm

SAT, 15 APR

Rebels

v

Brumbies

Melbourne

9:45 pm

Pretoria

6:00 am

SUN, 16 APR

Cheetahs

v

Chiefs

Bloemfontein

1:05 am 3:15 am

SAT, 18 MAR

Bulls

v

Sunwolves

SAT, 18 MAR

Hurricanes

v

Highlanders

Wellington

7:35 pm

SUN, 16 APR

Stormers

v

Lions

Cape Town

SAT, 18 MAR

Waratahs

v

Brumbies

Sydney

9:45 pm

SUN, 16 APR

Bulls

v

Jaguares

Pretoria

5:30 am

SUN, 19 MAR

Lions

v

Reds

Johannesburg

4:15 am

BYES: Force, Highlanders, Sharks, Waratahs

SUN, 19 MAR

Sharks

v

Kings

Durban

6:30 am

SUN, 19 MAR

Jaguares

v

Cheetahs

Buenos Aires

8:40 am

BYES: Force, Stormers

All times listed are New Zealand local times and were correct at time of print. For up-to-date information on SUPER RUGBY 2017 visit superrugby.co.nz

ROUND 9

ANZAC WEEKEND

FRI, 21 APR

Lions

v

Jaguares

Johannesburg

6:00 am

FRI, 21 APR

Hurricanes

v

Brumbies

Napier

7:35 pm

FRI, 21 APR

Waratahs

v

Kings

Sydney

9:45 pm

SAT, 22 APR

Highlanders

v

Sunwolves

Invercargill

5:15 pm

SAT, 22 APR

Crusaders

v

Stormers

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SAT, 22 APR

Force

v

Chiefs

Perth

9:45 pm

SUN, 23 APR

Bulls

v

Cheetahs

Pretoria

3:15 am

SUN, 23 APR

Sharks

v

Rebels

Durban

5:30 am

BYES: Blues, Red

SUPER RUGBY 2017 page 16

superrugby.co.nz

ULE FOR THE 2017 SEASON DATE

GAME

VENUE

NZ TIME

DATE

GAME

ROUND 15

ROUND 10

VENUE

NZ TIME

(NEW ZEALAND and AUSTRALIA ONLY)

FRI, 28 APR

Highlanders

v

Stormers

Dunedin

7:35 pm

FRI, 02 JUN

Blues

v

Reds

Apia, Samoa

7:35 pm

SAT, 29 APR

Chiefs

v

Sunwolves

Hamilton

7:35 pm

SAT, 03 JUN

Crusaders

v

Highlanders

Christchurch

2:35 pm

SAT, 29 APR

Reds

v

Waratahs

Brisbane

9:45 pm

SAT, 03 JUN

Chiefs

v

Waratahs

Hamilton

5:05 pm

SAT, 29 APR

Force

v

Lions

Perth

11:55 pm

SAT, 03 JUN

Brumbies

v

Rebels

Canberra

9:45 pm

SUN, 30 APR

Cheetahs

v

Crusaders

Bloemfontein

3:15 am

SAT, 03 JUN

Force

v

Hurricanes

Perth

11:55 pm

SUN, 30 APR

Kings

v

Rebels

Port Elizabeth

5:30 am

SUN, 30 APR

Jaguares

v

Sharks

Buenos Aires

7:40 am

SUN, 30 APR

Brumbies

v

Blues

Canberra

6:05 pm

Wellington

7:35 pm

BYES: Bulls, Hurricanes

ROUND 11

ROUND 16

(NEW ZEALAND ONLY)

FRI, 09 JUN

Hurricanes

v

Chiefs

BYES: Blues, Crusaders, Highlanders

ROUND 15

(SA1 and SA2 ONLY)

SAT, 01 JULY

Sharks

v

Bulls

Durban

5:00 am

5:00 am

SAT, 01 JULY

Jaguares

v

Kings

Buenos Aires

11:05 am

Melbourne

5:00 pm

SUN, 02 JULY

Cheetahs

v

Stormers

Bloemfontein

1:05 am

Reds

New Plymouth

7:35 pm

SUN, 02 JULY

Lions

v

Sunwolves

Johannesburg

3:15 am

v

Blues

Sydney

9:45 pm

v

Force

Durban

1:05 am

ROUND 16

(AUSTRALIA, SA1 and SA2 ONLY)

Pretoria

3:15 am

FRI, 07 JULY

Reds

v

Brumbies

Brisbane

9:45 pm

9:40 am

FRI, 07 JULY

Force

v

Rebels

Perth

11:55 pm

BYES: Brumbies, Kings

SAT, 08 JULY

Waratahs

v

Jaguares

Sydney

9:45 pm

ROUND 12

SUN, 09 JULY

Bulls

v

Kings

Pretoria

3:15 am

SUN, 09 JULY

Stormers

v

Sunwolves

Cape Town

5:30 am

FRI, 05 MAY

Hurricanes

v

Stormers

Wellington

7:35 pm

SAT, 06 MAY

Cheetahs

v

Highlanders

Bloemfontein

SAT, 06 MAY

Rebels

v

Lions

SAT, 06 MAY

Chiefs

v

SAT, 06 MAY

Waratahs

SUN, 07 MAY

Sharks

SUN, 07 MAY SUN, 07 MAY

Bulls Jaguares

v v

Crusaders Sunwolves

Buenos Aires

FRI, 12 MAY

Blues

v

Cheetahs

Auckland

7:35 pm

FRI, 12 MAY

Brumbies

v

Lions

Canberra

9:45 pm

SAT, 13 MAY

Crusaders

v

Hurricanes

Christchurch

7:35 pm

SAT, 13 MAY

Rebels

v

Reds

Melbourne

9:45 pm

SUN, 14 MAY

Bulls

v

Highlanders

Pretoria

1:05 am

SUN, 14 MAY

Kings

v

Sharks

Port Elizabeth

3:15 am

SUN, 14 MAY

Jaguares

v

Force

Buenos Aires

9:40 am

BYES: Chiefs, Stormers, Sunwolves, Waratahs

ROUND 13

BYES: Cheetahs, Lions, Sharks

ROUND 17 FRI, 14 JULY

Highlanders

v

Reds

Dunedin

7:35 pm

FRI, 14 JULY

Rebels

v

Jaguares

Melbourne

9:45 pm

SAT, 15 JULY

Kings

v

Cheetahs

Port Elizabeth

5:00 am

SAT, 15 JULY

Sunwolves

v

Blues

Tokyo

3:05 pm

SAT, 15 JULY

Chiefs

v

Brumbies

Hamilton

5:15 pm

SAT, 15 JULY

Hurricanes

v

Crusaders

Wellington

7:35 pm

FRI, 19 MAY

Chiefs

v

Crusaders

Suva, Fiji

7:35 pm

SAT, 15 JULY

Force

v

Waratahs

Perth

9:45 pm

SAT, 20 MAY

Stormers

v

Blues

Cape Town

5:00 am

SUN, 16 JULY

Sharks

v

Lions

Durban

3:15 am

SAT, 20 MAY

Hurricanes

v

Cheetahs

Wellington

7:35 pm

SUN, 16 JULY

Bulls

v

Stormers

Pretoria

5:30 am

SAT, 20 MAY

Force

v

Highlanders

Perth

9:45 pm

SAT, 20 MAY

Sunwolves

v

Sharks

Singapore

11:55 pm

THE FINALS

SUN, 21 MAY

Lions

v

Bulls

Johannesburg

3:15 am

SUPER RUGBY QUARTER-FINALS

SUN, 21 MAY

Kings

v

Brumbies

Port Elizabeth

5:30 am

FRI, 21 JULY

Team 1

v

Team 8

SUN, 21 MAY

Waratahs

v

Rebels

Sydney

6:05 pm

FRI, 21 JULY

Team 2

v

Team 7

SAT, 22 JULY

Team 3

v

Team 6

SAT, 22 JULY

Team 4

v

Team 5

BYES: Jaguares, Reds

ROUND 14 FRI, 26 MAY

Blues

v

Chiefs

Auckland

7:35 pm

FRI, 26 MAY

Reds

v

Force

Brisbane

9:45 pm

SAT, 27 MAY

Sunwolves

v

Cheetahs

Tokyo

5:15 pm

SAT, 27 MAY

Highlanders

v

Waratahs

Dunedin

7:35 pm

SAT, 27 MAY

Rebels

v

Crusaders

Melbourne

9:45 pm

SUN, 28 MAY

Bulls

v

Hurricanes

Pretoria

1:05 am

SUPER RUGBY FINAL

SUN, 28 MAY

Sharks

v

Stormers

Durban

3:15 am

SAT, 05 AUGUST

SUN, 28 MAY

Jaguares

v

Brumbies

Buenos Aires

9:40 am

MON, 29 MAY

Lions

v

Kings

Johannesburg

12:30 am

zn.oc.ybgurrepus

SUPER RUGBY SEMI-FINALS FRI, 28 JULY

F irst-seeded quarter-final winner

v

F ourth-seeded quarter-final winner

SAT, 29 JULY

S econd-seeded quarter-final winner

v

T hird-seeded quarter-final winner

v H IGHER RANKED SEMI-FINAL WINNER

L OWER RANKED SEMI-FINAL WINNER

NB: Times, dates and venues subject to change

page 17 SUPER RUGBY 2017

PREPARING THE BODY,MIND AND SOUL FOR RUGBY 2017

This season RugbySmart is bigger than ever! We want you to be at your best both on, and more importantly, off the field.

We’re providing expert advice and great tips, led by Sonny Bill Williams and a few of his rugby mates.

Do you have what it takes to be RugbySmart?

■ BODY — learn things such as the latest techniques for warming up, cooling down and physical conditioning from SBW and Black Fern, Portia Woodman.

■ MIND — concussion — know the signs and what to do. Everyone has a role to play in looking after our players and the game.

■ SOUL — better people make better players!

This is our Respect and Responsibility programme, which is designed to build healthy and respectful relationships within all our communities.

Whether you’re a player, coach, manager, referee, parent or health provider — this year RugbySmart is for everyone.

So join us in making our game safer and more enjoyable.

MAGIC MOMENT: GREAT TIPS AND ADVICE: Sonny Bill Williams (above and right) and Nehe Milner-Skudder (far right) offer some valuable tips to become better rugby players on and off the field.

SUPER RUGBY 2017 page 18

For more information, check out www.coachingtoolbox.co.nz/rugbysmart

www.nzrugby.co.nz/safe-play

20 YEARS OF AN ICON

S P O R T S N E T W O R K LT D | 0 5 0 8 7 7 6 7 8 6

THE AUSTRALIAN TEAM PREVIEWS

By Peter White

TOP CLASS: Flanker Michael Hooper will be an influential player and captain for the Waratahs in 2017.

BRUMBIES

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: QUARTER-FINALISTS. AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE: FIRST PLACE. Coach: Stephen Larkham Co-captains: Christian Lealiifano and Sam Carter Home ground: Canberra Stadium Website: www.brumbies.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

Contact: Building 29, University of Canberra, Bruce, ACT, 2617. Phone +61 2 6260 8588 Brumbies TAB odds: $18.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Head coach Stephen Larkham will lead a Brumbies team headlined by 13 Wallaby internationals and Argentina scrum-half Tomas Cubelli, who returns to Canberra for a second season.

“We have a good mix of local, interstate and international players in our squad,” Larkham says.

“It’s a good mix of experience and youthful energy, and it’s going to be a great opportunity for us to

NEW SOUTH WALES WARATAHS

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 10TH PLACE. AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE: SECOND PLACE. Coach: Daryl Gibson Captain: Michael Hooper 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: $15.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Waratahs have eight new faces in their squad, including Aussie Sevens star Cam Clark and Australian Under-20 playmaker Mack Mason.

They join international Wallaby stars Sekope Kepu, Dean Mumm, Will Skelton, new captain Michael Hooper, Nick Phipps, Bernard Foley, Israel Folau, Rob Horne and Reece Robinson. But they have lost plenty of star power, with Kurtley Beale, Dave

SUPER RUGBY 2017 page 20

show who we are, why we are here and what we want to achieve.”

The Brumbies squad has a core group of Australian stars including Tevita Kuridrani, Scott Sio, Rory Arnold, Scott Fardy, Ben Alexander, Henry Speight, Sam Carter and Allan Alaalatoa, but also contains plenty of local Canberra talent.

Newcomers to the squad include the return of the Fainga’a twins from the Reds, powerhouse prop Nic Mayhew from the Blues, fullback Tom Banks, Force flanker Chris Alcock, highly promising centre Kyle Godwin, Southland Stags Mitre 10 Cup first-five Wharenui Hawera, and Australian Sevens star Tom Cusack.

Dealing with the travel intensity could be a key factor in their season. In rounds 13 to 15, the Brumbies take on the Kings and Jaguares on the road with a daunting schedule of Canberra–Port Elizabeth–Buenos Aires–Canberra.

In a move sure to please fans, the Brumbies have dumped the all blue jersey and will wear the traditional white jersey with blue chest and gold stripes.

Dennis, Tatafu Polota-Nau and the franchise’s most capped player Benn Robinson all absent in 2017.

One player to watch is lock David McDuling, who returns to Sydney after contributing to Canterbury’s 2016 Mitre 10 Cup Championship win, scoring two tries in his nine appearances for the side.

Waratahs head coach Daryl Gibson says to be able to bring a local NSW player with his experience to the club at short notice is a real bonus. “As someone with a very determined attitude and leadership qualities, he is a great asset for the squad.”

Kiwi Gibson is in his second season as head coach and knows very well that missing the finals last year was not up to standard for the 2014 champions.

The South African leg comes early with matches against the Lions and Sharks in rounds two and three before returning home to host the Brumbies.

Other interesting aspects of the draw are an afternoon home match against the Crusaders, home matches against the Jaguares and Kings and not playing the Sunwolves from Japan.

oliverlee.co.nz

You can take your business even further this year.

We’ll make sure your drivers always get you there.

Get the PERFECT UPGRADE with your

new lease:

F R ERAEINING

DRIVERteT es r Drive Servic with TR Mas

TR Group have been working with fleet operators for 25 years, and when it comes to leasing trucks and trailers, we lead the way. And now we’re going even further to deliver the best lease experience to our customers by offering free driver training with every new truck lease.

Driving Programme (SAFED) which will enhance driver performance and improve safety. At TR Group, we know that effective driver training will significantly improve the efficiency, compliance, and safety of your fleet, freeing you up to focus on your business, staff and customers.

We have a number of driver training programs to chose from, including our unique Rollover Prevention Heavy Stability Course and our Safe and Fuel Efficient

Just another reason why TR Group is the heavy transport partner you can trust.

Making heavy vehicle fleet management easy for you www.trgroup.co.nz

0800 50 40 50

Proud supporter of

THE AUSTRALIAN TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 20 QUEENSLAND REDS

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

WESTERN FORCE

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 15TH PLACE. AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE: FOURTH PLACE. Coach: Nick Stiles Captain: James Slipper Home ground: Suncorp Stadium Website: www.redsrugby.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Contact: PO Box 3458, Newmarket, QLD 4051 Phone +61 7 3354 9333 Reds TAB odds: $31.00

AUSTRALASIAN GROUP AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE

Cooper has signed a contract that will keep him playing Super Rugby for the Reds until 2019. On his day, he can be a match-winner; he has played for Queensland 107 times from 2006 to 2015 and 59 tests for the Wallabies.

The Reds also have a new head coach in the popular Nick Stiles. He played 12 seasons for the Reds and has been in the coaching system since his retirement in 2005.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The 2011 champions are determined to get back into finals contention after slumping to 15th place last year, and having not made the finals for three years.

The Reds have been proactive in signing some top-class players in Scott Higginbotham, Quade Cooper, Stephen Moore, Leroy Houston, George Smith and former Brisbane Broncos Caleb Timu and Lachlan Maranta. They are part of an exciting squad

The Reds open their 2017 campaign at home against the Sharks before facing the Force in the new Thursday night slot in Perth. A home game against the Crusaders will be looked forward to eagerly, as will the clash with the Waratahs at Suncorp Stadium in round 10.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 16TH PLACE. AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE: FIFTH PLACE. Coach: Dave Wessels Co-captains: Ben McCalman and Heath Tessmann 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: $251.00

His new assistant coach Joe Barakat cut short his contract with Ulster to join the Force and is realistic about their plight.

“We know our backs are against the wall a little bit, and we don’t have time for a rebuilding year,” Barakat says. “When you talk about rebuilding periods, you can afford to lose. At this stage, we can’t afford to lose. It’s about winning games, and that’s what we’re about.”

The Force take on the Waratahs in Sydney in round one, followed by further Aussie derbies against the Reds and Brumbies. Rounds 11 to 13 will also be difficult as the Force play the Sharks in Durban and the Jaguares in Buenos Aires, before hosting the Highlanders at home.

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: These are tough times for rugby in Western Australia. The Force have yet to reach the finals since their inception in 2006. They face a fight to stay in the competition beyond this year as SANZAAR considers the future direction of Super Rugby.

On the field it will be a tough start for new coach Dave Wessels who steps up from assistant coach. He previously worked with the Brumbies and Stormers.

MELBOURNE REBELS

alongside Wallabies Kane Douglas, Rob Simmons, captain James Slipper, and Nick Frisby, plus Samu Kerevi and Japanese Test player Hendrik Tui.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 12TH PLACE. AUSTRALIAN CONFERENCE: THIRD PLACE. Coach: Tony McGahan Captain: Nic Stirzaker Home ground: AAMI Park Website: www.melbournerebels.com.au Tickets: www.ticketek.com.au Contact: PO Box 4046, Richmond East, VIC 3121 Phone +61 300 467 323 Melbourne Rebels TAB odds: $81.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Rebels have been handed a tough schedule as they try to qualify for the finals for the first time. In their opening seven matches they will meet five finalists from last year and two others who just missed out.

They start at AAMI Park with the first Thursday night game in Super Rugby history against the Blues, before a trip to Wellington to face the Hurricanes.

Two home games follow against the Chiefs and Waratahs, followed by the Highlanders in Dunedin

SUPER RUGBY 2017 page 22

The arduous away trip to South Africa and Argentina comes in rounds four and five with matches against the Lions and Jaguares.

There are 14 new signings in the Force squad, including veteran Wallaby hooker Tatafu Polota-Nau from the Waratahs, Canterbury-Bankstown Bulldogs star Curtis Rona, experienced utility back Robbie Coleman and former Gloucester centre Bill Meakes.

Alex Newsome is an outside back of some promise. before a well-earned bye. Head coach Tony McGahan, in his fourth year in charge, is positive about the season ahead after a franchise-best seven wins in 2016. He is aiming to top the Australian Conference.

“What wins Super Rugby is a strong, multi-faceted attack, leading to more tries,” he says. “Now that we have real gas on the outside we will look to decrease the phase count and hopefully score earlier. Rather than take sides through 20 phases we want to be short and sharp, and I think we have the players to execute that.”

He has some exciting backs to put that game plan into action. Captain and halfback Nic Stirzaker teams up with first-five Jackson Garden-Bachop, son of former All Black Stephen Bachop, who signed from the Wellington Lions in the Mitre 10 Cup. Japan winger Kentaro Kodama joins from the Sunwolves and will play alongside Japan teammate Amanaki Mafi.

Other key Rebels recruits include Fiji international Ben Volavola, Marika Koroibete from the Melbourne Storm, as well as Australian Under-20 star Jack Maddocks.

oliverlee.co.nz

ARGENTINIAN & JAPANESE TEAM PREVIEWS

KEY PLAYER: Ed Quirke adds experience to the Sunwolves forwards.

SUNWOLVES

DETERMINED: Argentina flanker Pablo Matera is a driving force in the Jaguares pack.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 18TH PLACE SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 1: FOURTH PLACE. Coach: Filo Tiatia Co-captains: Edward Quirk and Harumichi Tatekawa Home grounds: P rince Chichibu Memorial Stadium, Tokyo; Singapore National Stadium, Singapore.

Website: https://sunwolves.or.jp/en Tickets: https://sunwolves.or.jp/en/ticket/

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

Contact: Aoyama AIE, AIE Building 4F, 2-7-21, Kitaaoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo. Phone +81 120 639 021 Sunwolves TAB odds: $501.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Ever since Leicester City won the English Premier League, one should think twice before writing off any minnow.

Nevertheless, if the Sunwolves are to win even their African conference, which also includes the Stormers, Bulls and Cheetahs, it would be Leicester City’s achievement times two.

To compound matters, the Sunwolves also play New Zealand teams in the league phase this year.

The Japanese underdogs have a new coach, former Hurricanes utility forward Filo Tiatia, who has a heck of a task on his hands and with little continuity

LOS JAGUARES

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

SUPER RUGBY 2016 page 24

By Stephen Nell

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 13TH PLACE. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 2: THIRD PLACE. Coach: Raúl Pérez Captain: Agustin Creevy Home ground: Velez Sarsfield Stadium Website: www.jaguares.com.ar Tickets: www.tuentrada.com/jaguares/Online Contact: Av. Juan B. Justo 8900, C1408AKR CABA, Argentina Phone +54 11 4641 3310 Jaguares TAB odds: $51.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: Given that their squad was overflowing with Argentinian internationals, the Jaguares’ performance last year in their debut season of Super Rugby can best be described as underwhelming.

However there can’t be arguments over whether they belong in Super Rugby, as is the case with the Sunwolves and Southern Kings.

Last year was all about coming to grips with the relentless demands of one of the toughest competitions in world rugby and, notwithstanding the modest

from last year. Among those who won’t be around this year are reliable first five-eighth Tusi Pisi and try-scoring ace Akihito Yamada.

There have been some shrewd acquisitions, including former Lions ace Willie Britz, who can cover loose forward and lock.

Tiatia has opted for joint captains: experienced former Reds flank Ed Quirk and first five-eighth Harumichi Tatekawa. While the squad is not without quality and experience, the biggest challenges are those beyond Tiatia’s control.

The Sunwolves are again split between Tokyo’s Prince Chichibu Memorial Stadium and Singapore National Stadium — four games in the former and three in the latter.

It stands to reason that there will be a heck of a travel schedule, which includes trips to outposts such as Hamilton and Bloemfontein.

In April alone, a home match against the Bulls is followed by a tour of New Zealand for successive matches against the Crusaders, Highlanders and Chiefs.

Last year the Sunwolves’ solitary victory came over the Jaguares, while they drew against the Stormers and ran the Bulls and Cheetahs close. If Tiatia can foster a strong bond in the squad, they will put up a fight, but inevitably go down fighting. four victories, there is a foundation to build on.

“There were a lot of expectations last year, which put us under pressure to get many victories. When we couldn’t get the results we wanted, the frustration set in and we inevitably made a lot of mistakes,” says coach Raúl Pérez.

“We are learning. This season we’re going to fly less and have an extra game at home. However, our challenge is to stay physically and mentally sharp for every game, and not repeat the mistakes of 2016.”

There are a number of injury concerns. Scrumhalf Martin Landajo suffered a fractured fibula in a warm-up match and utility back Juan Martín Hernández sustained a fracture from a blow to his face in training.

Lock Tomás Lavanini and prop Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro are also set to be out for a while.

For their part, flyhalf Nicolás Sánchez and centrecum-wing Emiliano Boffelli are in a race against time for the Jaguares’ opening fixture against the Southern Kings in Port Elizabeth on 25 February.

It’s a fixture that provides an opportunity to hit the ground running.

oliverlee.co.nz

THE SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM PREVIEWS

EXCITING: Bok fly half Handre Pollard is the key to sparking the Bulls.

BLUE BULLS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

TOUGH: Cheetahs flanker Uzair Cassiem impressed in his Test debut against Wales in November.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: NINTH PLACE. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 1: SECOND 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: $31.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Bulls may have a tougher fixtures list this year than last, but coach Nollis Marais is optimistic that his team is ready for the “next step” in their development.

While the Bulls have lost a handful of senior players — notably tighthead prop Marcel van der Merwe and flank Lappies Labuschagné – they have the depth to absorb those blows.

In addition, they have gained a world-class lock from the Cheetahs in Lood de Jager, while the availability of Springbok first five-eighth Handré Pollard will feel like a new signing after he missed

CENTRAL CHEETAHS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 14TH PLACE. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 1: THIRD 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: While a limited budget means they’re unlikely to ever be serious title contenders, the Cheetahs are set for a marked improvement after managing only four wins last year.

The catalyst could be the confidence they took from winning South Africa’s domestic showpiece, the Currie Cup. They did it convincingly by first routing the Golden Lions by 55–17 in the semi-final before claiming the trophy with a comfortable 36–16 victory over the Bulls in Bloemfontein.

oliverlee.co.nz

By Stephen Nell

the 2016 campaign due to injury.

Pollard will give the Bulls some crucial x-factor as they look to continue down the path of expanding on a traditionally conservative game plan.

“I’d like us to vary our game a little more. If you only play off the scrumhalf, teams read you quite easily. You’ve got to vary between playing off 9 and 10, which the New Zealand teams do very well,” says Marais.

Speaking of the Kiwis, Marais is unfazed about playing them in the league phase, after facing the Australian teams last year.

“If you want to win the competition, you have to be able to beat the New Zealand sides. You’ll start falling behind if you’re not used to playing them,” he says.

The Bulls will be without captain Adriaan Strauss in the early stages of the competition after he underwent surgery on his back. Pollard will lead in his absence.

Marais also has to deal with the loss of promising openside flank Roelof Smit, who tore a muscle in his chest playing for the ‘Boks against the Barbarians in November, after having had a strong Currie Cup campaign with the Blue Bulls.

Throughout the competition the Cheetahs played with a swagger and coach Franco Smith would like to see that blueprint expanded on in Super Rugby.

“In the past, South African rugby suffered through conservatism in terms of their playing style. I really think our players have more to offer than that.

We’ll carry the same approach into Super Rugby and are hoping for a big improvement on last year,” says Smith.

The Cheetahs have lost world-class Springbok lock Lood de Jager to the Bulls. They are now a side bereft of star quality, but a team in the true sense of the word.

“A part of my planning has been that we need to have the next guy ready if someone else seeks greener pastures. Lood, in any event, struggled with the intensity when he joined up with us last year in the wake of the World Cup. We also have the benefit of continuity from the Currie Cup,” says Smith.

The prospect of regular Kiwi opposition doesn’t worry the coach.

“We have huge respect for the New Zealand sides. At the same time the guys can’t wait for the opportunity to measure themselves.” page 27 SUPER RUGBY 2017

True Adventure starts here.

Africa Twin starting from $20,595

www.hondamotorbikes.co.nz/africatwin DCT $24,595

ABS $22,595

STANDARD $20,595

Price includes GST, excludes on road costs. Available at participating Honda dealers. Standard $20,595, ABS $22,595, DCT $24,595.

THE SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 27 STORMERS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 01 CONFERENCE

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: QUARTER-FINALISTS. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 1: FIRST 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: $15.00

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: With a reduced recruitment budget following the Western Province Rugby Union’s embarrassing liquidation, there is little reason to be optimistic about the Stormers’ 2017 campaign.

The obvious outcome of the liquidation was that the likes of iconic loose forward Schalk Burger, Springbok tighthead prop Vincent Koch, lock Jean Kleyn and wing Kobus van Wyk have not been adequately replaced.

LIONS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

that it’s only out-of-favour players from elsewhere that have arrived. They include centre-wing Dan Kriel, the brother of Bok Jesse Kriel.

The most significant capture is probably in the coaching ranks, with former Blues assistant coach Paul Feeney having been recruited to upskill the Stormers’ backs.

Pre-season preparation has focused on toughening up the players and putting a lot of work into their off-loading game.

Coach Robbie Fleck is hoping to reap the benefit of hard work by the players in the pre-season.

The draw is an obvious concern. Last year the Stormers’ first taste of New Zealand opposition came in their quarter-final against the Chiefs, which ended in a humiliating 21–60 defeat at Newlands.

This year there is no soft Australian opposition and the schedule against the Kiwis includes successive tour matches against the Crusaders, Highlanders and Hurricanes.

It’s difficult to see the Stormers winning any of those games or even remaining South Africa’s second-best team after the Lions.

Sevens star Seabelo Senatla will be available for the Stormers for their entire campaign, but other than

The biggest factor in their favour is that they’ll be written off, which is a depressing state of affairs.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: RUNNERS-UP. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 2: FIRST PLACE. Coach: Johan Ackermann Captain: Warren Whiteley Home ground: Emirates Airline Park Website: www.lionsrugby.co.za Tickets: lionsrugby.computicket.com Contact: PO Box 15724, Doornfontein North, Johannesburg, 2028. Phone +27 11 4022960 Lions TAB odds: $7.50

CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: With last year’s finalists having the luxury of sidestepping the cream of New Zealand’s franchises in the league phase, one can’t help but think they will have a serious crack at this year’s title.

Coach Johan Ackermann, however, is quick to sound a cautionary note.

“I think the Australian sides will be significantly stronger this year. The Reds, for example, have recruited really well. There would be disappointment about last year and I expect the Aussies to play with passion,” he says.

“Last year we also had the luxury of not having had players who had Springbok duties or spent the off-season in Japan. Everything was under our control and we could prepare very nicely.”

Indeed, this year the Lions have a number of players on double contracts. Even captain Warren Whiteley has one foot in Japan and missed the bulk of the Lions’ pre-season preparations.

Others include stars such as outside centre Lionel Mapoe, flank Jaco Kriel, flyhalf Elton Jantjies and lock Franco Mostert. Warwick Tecklenburg, a standout flanker last year, has retired to help run the family farm.

Then there are the injuries, with uncertainty about whether Springbok tighthead prop Julian Redelinghuys will play again after breaking his neck last year. Winger Ruan Combrinck is expected back only in April.

INSPIRATIONAL: Will Lions skipper Warren Whiteley’s hit top form after he spent the off-season in Japan?

oliverlee.co.nz

However, the Lions are a resilient bunch with the capacity to regenerate. Ackermann’s team also defies the stereotype of traditional South African conservatism and they’ll certainly be in with a good chance if they can make a kinder fixtures list than last year count for home advantage in the play-offs. page 29 SUPER RUGBY 2016

THE SOUTH AFRICAN TEAM PREVIEWS continued from page 29

SPEEDSTER:​ Malcolm Jaer’s pace out wide is an asset for the Southern Kings.

SOUTHERN KINGS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

THE SHARKS

SOUTH AFRICAN GROUP AFRICA 02 CONFERENCE

TOP CLASS: Sharks captain Patrick Lambie will look to re-ignite his career after missing most of 2016 with injuries.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: 17TH PLACE. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 2: FOURTH PLACE. Coach: Deon Davids Captain: To be announced Home ground: Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium Website: www.skings.co.za Tickets: www.ticketpros.co.za Contact: 70 Prince Alfred Rd, North End, Port Elizabeth, 6001 Phone +27 41 408 8902 Southern Kings TAB odds: $501.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: As was the case last year, the odds are firmly stacked against the Southern Kings, who are first and foremost a political football and then a rugby franchise.

Strictly speaking they have no right to existence.

There are plenty of rugby players registered in the Eastern Cape, but the infrastructure isn’t there to support a franchise.

The South African Rugby Union are in charge of the Kings, a situation born out of the anchor province, Eastern Province, having been declared bankrupt.

LAST YEAR: COMPETITION: EIGHTH PLACE. SOUTH AFRICAN CONFERENCE 2: SECOND PLACE. Coach: Robert du Preez 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 31 308 8400 The Sharks TAB odds: $15.00 CAMPAIGN PREVIEW: The Sharks must still be ruing the day they decided to part ways with long-serving coach John Plumtree in 2013. Plumtree has gone on to bigger and better things with the Hurricanes, while the Sharks are now onto their third coach since.

Jake White guided them to a semi-final spot in 2014 and last year, the second season under Gary Gold, they suffered a 41–0 humiliation at the hands of the Hurricanes in the quarter-finals. Now it’s the turn of former ’Bok halfback Robert du Preez,

SUPER RUGBY 2017 page 30

Last year the players and coaching staff somehow managed to put all the chaos out of their minds and went about their business with great spirit. However, they were limited in terms of their talent and will be so again this year.

The Kings have lost talented players – among those are last year’s skipper and lock Steven Sykes, and dynamic hooker Edgar Marutlulle.

Contracting has probably been as smart as it could be under difficult circumstances with Highlanders tighthead prop Ross Geldenhuys and Lions loosehead Schalk van der Merwe among the acquisitions.

Keep an eye out too for Mike Willemse, a talented former South Africa Under-20 hooker from Western Province. However, there are also a host of journeymen with dubious Super Rugby credentials in the mix.

“The ideal is obviously to be able to stick with combinations and build. We only started contracting in December, but we got some guys with experience and there are others who have stuck up their hands in the Currie Cup first division,” says coach Deon Davids.

Davids is adept at fostering a good team culture, but it’s a losing battle on a par with coaching the Sunwolves. whose first act has been to appoint experienced first five-eighth Patrick Lambie as captain.

On the recruitment front there have been more goings than comings. Experienced Springboks are among the departing players, such as flank Marcell Coetzee, fullback Willie le Roux and wing JP Pietersen.

Clement Poitrenaud, the 34-year-old French fullback whose contract Toulouse did not want to renew, has been lured out of retirement to Durban.

The Sharks have poached wing Kobus van Wyk and a promising young loose forward from Western Province, Jacques Vermeulen.

If the Sharks’ Currie Cup campaign under du Preez last year is anything to go by, they could be in for a struggle. While well-endowed in terms of manpower, they could not make it to the semi-finals.

Du Preez’ troops start their campaign on the road in Australia with matches against the Reds in Brisbane and Brumbies in Canberra. Those are tough assignments to kick-off with, but it gets arguably the most difficult part of their league campaign out of the way early and they will be helped by a largely favourable draw sans New Zealand opposition.

oliverlee.co.nz

For the everyday.

Or a quick getaway.

With a huge range of vehicles to choose from, we’ve got you covered wherever you’re headed this season. So book now at budget.co.nz or call 0800 652 227.

With Budget, you’re good to go.

There is only choice ACCURACY

PRODUCTIVITY

TM

CROSS CUT POSITIONING SYSTEM

TM

CROSS CUT POSITIONING SYSTEM

CAPACITY TM

CROSS CUT POSITIONING SYSTEM

TM

CROSS CUT POSITIONING SYSTEM

EASE OF USE

DHS780T2A-XE

WORLD’S 1ST CORDLESS 305MM COMPOUND SLIDE MITRE SAW Unprecedented power & cut capacity with the freedom of cordless technology. Revolutionary AC/DC powered from either 2 x 54v DEWALT® XR FLEXVOLT™ Battery Packs, for job site freedom, or the AC Mains Adaptor for workshop use. DEWALT® XR FLEXVOLT™ tools offer the professional tradesperson the...

...POWER OF CORDED. FREEDOM OF CORDLESS.™