Tag: Super Rugby

Super Rugby: Round 2 Review

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Round 2 of Super Rugby carried on the theme of unpredictable results from Round 1.  While we’re getting a little closer to being able to predict who the major players in this season’s comp will be, there’s still a few exceptions (the Hurricanes for one) causing a bit of confusion and trouble at the bookmakers.

Here’s the wrap up of all the Super Rugby Round 2 action:

Chiefs (19) v Brumbies (17)

This match between the Chiefs and the Brumbies was always to be a close one.  On this evidence, it could be that these two will end up competing for the Super Rugby title in July.  They look two of the more accomplished sides in 2015, and neither gave an inch in this brutal New Plymouth encounter.  The boot’s of Cruden and Lealiifano were the major contributors to the action and the scoreboard, as both sides traded penalties to see-saw the scoreboard.  With their noses in front through much of it, the Brumbies committed a final play indiscretion to hand Cruden an opportunity to kick for the win which he duly grabbed.

Chiefs: Tries – C. Ngatai, Pen – Aaron Cruden (4), Con – Aaron Cruden

Brumbies: Tries – I. Vaea, Pen – C. Lealiifano (3), N White

Rebels (28) v Waratahs (38)

The Waratahs were very disappointed with their effort in Round 1, so it was no surprise they bounced back with a victory against the Rebels.  With a point to prove, the Waratahs, led by a brilliant Kurtley Beale performance, ran in four tries to secure a bonus point win and help the memories from week one disappear. Beale scored one try and set up another fro Stephen Holies in a performance that finally got him some publicity for the right reasons – not the sexist text incidents he’s been more famous for recently.

The Rebels showed enough to be dangerous for the rest of the tournament.  They backed up their win against the Crusaders with one bonus point after just missing the losing bonus point due to a late penalty.

Rebels: Tries – S.Higginbotham, L.Timani, L.Burgess, S.Naivalu, Con – M.Harris (4)

Waratahs: Tries – S.Hoiles, Ta. Naiyaravoro, K.Beale, Pen – B.Foley, K.Beale (3), Con – B.Foley (3)

Bulls (13) v Hurricanes (17)

The Hurricanes South African leg clean sweep (their first since 2006) was about as expected as an Afghanistan win in the Cricket World Cup.  Nevertheless, it was achieved with a gritty defensive display at the imperiously difficult Johannesburg home ground of the Bulls.

The Bulls again struggled to convert pressure into points, and for the second match in a row were left to rue general indiscipline, and inaccuracy on attack.  With the exception of wonderkid Handre Pollard, the Bulls look susceptible this year, and are one of only four teams yet to record a win.

The Hurricanes may be this years unexpected package.  In truth they needed a late Savea try and the boot of Beuden Barrett to get them home here, but the talented backline will only get better in weeks to come with more rugby under the belt.

Bulls: Tries- H. Pollard, Pen- H. Pollard, Con- H. Pollard

Hurricanes: Tries- J Savea, Pen- B. Barrett (4)

Highlanders (20) v Crusaders (26)

The Highlanders and the Crusaders never combine for dull encounters.  This was no exception.  The Crusaders, dominant for most of the match, had to withstand a late Highlanders fightback to take their first points of the 2015 Super Rugby season.  Colin Slade grabbed his opportunity to steer the side without Dan Carter with aplomb.  He was excellent in general play and with the boot, and will force Todd Blackadder into a tough decision when Carter’s fit.

The Highlanders were brave in the second half after trailing by 20-7 at the break.  All Blacks Aaron Smith and Malakai Fekitoa scored tries to close the gap, but it was only enough for one bonus point as the Crusaders did what they couldn’t do the week before.

Crusaders on the board, the Highlanders with some work to do.

Highlanders: Tries – A. Smith, M. Fekitoa, Pen – L. Sopoaga (2), Con – L. Sopoaga (2)

Crusaders: Tries – S. Barrett, J. McNicholl, Pen – C. Slade (4), Con – C. Slade (2)

Reds (18) v Force (6)

Cyclone Marcia meant that many of us were unsure whether this match was going to happen or not. The game did go ahead, and despite the other type of snow (read cocaine) also bearing on the match, the Reds snuck a win against a pretty weak Force side.  The game plan from the Reds was simple; boring, but it proved to be too effective for the more fancied Force.  Territorial kicking and tackling your heart out is a commendable strategy for a team under such enormous off-field pressure, and its testament to the character of the players that they pulled it off.

The Force managed just two first half penalties to the boot off Sias Ebersohn, and couldn’t penetrate the energetic defence of the Queensland side.

Reds: Tries – L.Turner, Penalty Try, Pen – L.Turner (2) , Con – L.Turner

Force: Pen – S.Ebersohn (2)

Stormers (27) v Blues (16)

The Stormers went to the top of the Super Rugby ladder with their second win of the year.  This one was pretty much over in the 24th minute when the Blues were reduced to 14 players as Hayden Triggs was red carded for an idiotic punch.  Granted the recipient was the annoying Duane Vermeulen, but the act itself was thuggish and he deserved to go.  With just 14 men the Blues couldn’t compete, and the Stormers ran out winners by 27 points to 16.

Ihaia West was one of the few bright sparks for the Blues.  We were critical of him last week, but on this matches’ evidence he is the right man to guide the Blues this season.  The Blues just need to discover a way to win away from Eden Park, something we’re not sure they can do.

The Stormers may not have enough to their game to stay at the top of the table all season.  They managed only two tries despite playing the bulk of the match with a one man advantage, and didn’t do enough to suggest they’ll be able to beat team when they travel to Australasia.

Stromers: Tries – N.Groom, D.Leyds, Pen – D. Catrakilis (4), K.Coleman, Con – D. Catrakilis

Blues: Tries – J.Cowan, Pen – I.West (3), Con – I.West

Sharks (29) v Lions (12)

The Sharks bounced back from a horror opening round loss to record a bonus point win at home to the travelling Lions. The match, played in driving rain, saw the Lions dominate the early possession but fail to turn any of it into meaningful points.  That proved to be crucial, as the Sharks eventually overturned the wave of possession and score four tries to none to get their campaign back on track. Patrick Lambie was the star of the show for the Sharks, kicking for 14 points and guiding his team around nicely in the difficult conditions.  The Sharks go to 5th on the Super Rugby standings while the Lions are firmly rooted to the bottom.

Sharks: Tries – A.Ndungane, C. Reinach, M.Coetzee, Pen – P.Lambie (4) , Con – P.Lambie

Lions: Pen – M.Boshoff

 

Super Rugby: Round 2 Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Round 1 of Super Rugby is done and dusted.  A week of rust, and more rust treated us to a number of upsets and treated the bookies to some reasonable takings.  Will the home teams fare better this week?

Check out the preview on all the matches, along with odds from Bet365, to make your picks.

Chiefs v Brumbies, Yarrow Stadium, New Plymouth, Friday 5.35pm

Chiefs – $1.40

Brumbies – $3.00

The Chiefs and Brumbies will continue a duel that has spanned some 20-odd games, including the 2013 final on Friday night. While the Brumbies have the edge in the overall record, and were dominant in their first up win against the Reds, the Chiefs too enjoyed a win and have further strengthened their side by including Liam Messam and Aaron Cruden.  SBW v Tevita Kuridrani in midfield is going to be an almighty battle that could define the match.  We’re with the bookies on this one, Chiefs by 8.

Rebels v Waratahs, AAMI Park, Melbourne, Friday 7.40pm

Rebels – $2.80

Waratahs – $1.44

The Rebels will have gained an unmeasurable amount of confidence after their first ever Super Rugby away win last week against last years beaten finalists the Crusaders.  They’ll need it too.  Because this week the task gets tougher as they back up against last year’s Champions.  They are at home, and their first match foul play indiscretions have not been penalised by the match review committee, so they are a chance considering how badly the Waratahs were in game one.  Even still, we’re predicting a much better Waratahs performance and for them to bounce back and win by 10.

Bulls v Hurricanes, Loftus Versfeld, Pretoria, Saturday 4.10am

Bulls – $1.44

Hurricanes – $2.80

The Hurricanes started Chris Boyd’s tenure with a clinical win against the Lions in South Africa, while the Bulls came unstuck against local rivals the Stormers.  The Hurricanes welcome back midfield dynamo Ma’a Nonu fresh off an enforced paternity layoff.  Boyd’s trying to ease the expectations on him, but his inclusion adds more firepower to an already impressive backline.  Despite the Barretts, Nonus, and Janes where still picking the Bulls to get the better of the Canes at home.  Stodgy forward play and accurate kicking will be the difference in this one.  Bulls by 6.

Highlanders v Crusaders, Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, Saturday 5.35pm

Highlanders – $2.25

Crusaders – $1.65

An Orientation week fixture for the rowdy Otago University students should provide all the spark the Highlanders need for their first Super Rugby match of the season.  The Highlanders host fellow south islanders (and generally, the best New Zealand conference team) in what is expected to be a sold out showcase of New Zealand’s better rugby talent.  Ben Smith and Israel Dagg, both vying for the All Black fullback spot, will compete in one of the many intriguing individual matches threatening to overshadow the main event.  Crusaders were abysmally rusty in their opening match, but in truth, will probably be better without Dan Carter who is injured.  Highlanders by 5.

Reds v Force, Suncorp Stadium, Brisbane, Saturday 7.40pm

Reds – $1.58

Force – $2.40

Oh man, do the Reds have some issues.  If we were writing this preview yesterday we would say they’re a decent chance with Adam Thompson returning to bolster their pack, but with today’s news of Karmichael Hunt’s arrest for drug offences, the team is in turmoil.  I’m tempted to give this to the Force by reasons of disharmony and panic. Force by 7.

Stormers v Blues, Newlands Stadium, Cape Town, Sunday 2.05am

Stormers – $1.36

Blues – $3.20

The Stormers have proved that they are back with full force (see what we did their – used another team’s name). They put together an impressive win against the Bulls last week and will be looking to put together another performance against the lacklustre Blues at home.  The Blues kicked, and then kicked some more, ball away last week to destroy any attacking opportunities they had, and they’ll fail to recover from the difficult travelling times in this one.  We’re picking the Stormers to be far too strong at Newlands.  We’re picking the Stormers by 13+.

Sharks v Lions, Kings Park, Durban, Sunday 4.10am

Sharks – $1.22

Lions – $4.35

Another all South African fixture should be settled in the Sharks favour, even taking into account their shock loss in the first round.  The Sharks collapsed under a weight of expectation last week, yet we expect them to do better against the second feline-themed opponent this week.  The Lions need to improve on their ability to dominate possession, otherwise they need to get comfy at the foot of the Super Rugby table.  The Sharks have made three injury enforced change to the team, which should prevent any complacency creeping in.  Sharks to register their first win of the comp. 

 

 

 

 

Super Rugby Round 1 Review

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Who would have thought the bookies could have got it so wrong?  Who could have imagined the home sides struggling so much in the opening round?

No one really.  Hence round 1 of Super Rugby surprised many with a number of interesting results.  Check out the review of each game below:

Crusaders v Rebels

The Crusaders continued their sloppy starts in Super Rugby to fall to the Rebels at home in a dull game littered with errors and disciplinary indiscretions.  When the number of yellow cards is the same as the number of tries you know you’re in for difficult viewing and that’s exactly what Friday nights opener was.  Especially for Crusaders fans who were left frustrated by a disjointed effort and another injury to the Daniel Carter.

The Rebels already look a better team this year.  Some strong off season recruitment and an unbeaten pre-season has instilled a belief that could see the Rebels win more overseas games in 2015.

Brumbies v Reds

If the Crusaders were bad, then the Reds were abysmal.  Taking nothing away from the dominant Brumbies outfit who were clinical in all facets, it has to be said that the Reds were the most disappointing of all sides on show this week.  They can’t possibly make the Top 6 on this evidence.  Karmichael Hunt was outdone by Matt Toomua, and David Pocock, Scott Sio and Robbie Coleman were immense in the massacre.

Stephen Larkham’s men are incredibly well coached.  Their set piece was incredibly organised, and their backline penetrative in a strong indication they’ll go a long way this year.

Lions v Hurricanes

Chris Boyd got his coaching tenure underway by overseeing a Hurricanes victory over the Lions at the daunting Ellis Park (Johannesburg).  This was another in the “not overly entertaining” category as the Lions failed to turn big possession into points and were eventually outdone by tries to TJ Perenara and Matt Proctor.

One of the finds of the competition last year, Marnitz Boshoff, was uncharacteristically wayward with the boot, which impacted his side’s ability to win the territory battle.  For the Hurricanes their back row took the pundits over the much fancied backline.

Blues v Chiefs 

In one of only a few matches we correctly predicted the Chiefs got by the Blues at Eden Park by 23-18.  Sonny Bill Williams picked up Rugby where he left off two seasons ago and had a hand in both of the Chiefs’  tries.  Debutant Damien MacKenzie got the better of Ihaia West in the battle of the young number 10’s, and James Lowe was terrific on the wing for the men from Hamilton.  West’s boot was the only source of points for the Blues, who in truth didn’t have that many opportunities in attack and when they did West kicked it away.  The Blues face an interesting next week on whether to go with West again or whether to entrust the retuning Dan Bowden to provide the spark at first five-eighth.

Sharks v Cheetahs

This was by far and away the best game of the round.  Both teams played with energy and enterprise and only a Marcell Coetzee error settled the match in the Cheetahs favour.  The Cheetahs bonus point win on the road is a major coup for the prior year also-rans.  This should have been a difficult game for the Cheetahs away from home, but they remained undaunted by the heavily fancied Sharks and produced an upset that highlights their credentials for the season ahead.

Bulls v Stormers

We actually thought both these teams might do alright this Super Rugby season and if Saturday’s opener is anything to go by they are both right on track.  Beating the Bulls in Pretoria is no mean feat, so fair play to the Stormers who got by relatively comfortably in the end, winning 29-17.  The Bulls were unbeaten at home last year, and will need to get back on track quickly if they are to feature in the qualifying rounds of the tournament.  Handre Pollard will ensure that though, now that he doesn’t have to face Duane Vermeulen again for a bit.

Waratahs v Force

In what was probably the single biggest shock of the round, the defending champion NSW side lost at home to the Western Force.  In a performance that mirrored the Crusaders limp effort, the Waratahs never got going and failed to shake off the early season rust in any aspect of their play.  It’s certainly no cause for panic, as early season woes have been seen across the board in round 1, but the lack of enthusiasm on display from some of the top teams is an unusual trend.  Here’s hoping the Tahs can shake of the early season woes, and the Force can continue their hard tackling and committed efforts throughout the season.

Super Rugby Round 1 Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

Super Rugby returns this weekend with most of the teams in action.  Check out preview of all the matches below, with odds from Tom Waterhouse.

Crusaders v Rebels, Christchurch, Friday 5.35pm

Crusaders – $1.15

Rebels – $5.75

This is a tough one to predict first up.  The Rebels have never won outside of Australia, but they do have a relatively strong record against the Crusaders, who for all of their success in Super Rugby competitions are slow starters.  Nonetheless, we’re going with a Crusaders win here, mainly because of the excitement in Christchurch at the moment with the opening of the Cricket World Cup bringing loads of positivity and a big crowd.

Brumbies v Reds, Canberra, Friday 7.40pm

Brumbies – $1.33

Reds – $3.40

None of the opposition teams in Week 1 are favourites with the bookmakers.  This is no exception.  The Reds are without Quade Cooper, James O’Connor and former All Black Adam Thomson, and instead will rely on Karmichael Hunt to guide them around the paddock.  That’s probably too much to ask in your first rugby game of any significance.  Therefore, we’re going with the Brumbies by a narrow margin.  Keep an eye out for David Pocock who makes a return after a long injury lay off.

Lions v Hurricanes, Johhanesburg, Saturday 4.10am

Lions – $2.10

Hurricanes – $1.75

The Hurricanes leak more points than the District 5 did before Charlie Conway joined.  Expect no different when they take on the Lions in Johannesburg early Saturday morning.  But that doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll lose.  If the star-studded backbone can make up for the weak forward pack the amount of points they concede might not matter.  In TJ Perenara, Beauden Barrett and Cory Jane the Hurricanes have enough class to get home in this one.

Blues v Chiefs, Auckland, Saturday 5.35pm

Blues – $2.00

Chiefs – $1.80

Surprisingly, the Blues only lost one home game last year, to the Chiefs mind you, however, that was with a full complement of All Black stars who are sitting this one out.  The Blues are less affected by dubious rest policy, but we’re still thinking the Chiefs might get up and take this match out.  They have belief, they have the titles under their belt, and they have Sonny Bill Williams.

Sharks v Cheetahs, Durban, Sunday 2.10am

Sharks – $1.20

Cheetahs – $4.50

The Sharks will win easily.  They are comfortably the frontrunners of the South African Conference, and even early season rust won’t stop them from overrunning the notoriously weak Bloemfontein outfit. Unfortunately, we wouldn’t recommend considering the Cheetahs on too many occasions this year in your weekly tips or office sweepstake.

Bulls v Stormers, Pretoria, Sunday 4.10am

Bulls – $1.35

Stormers – $3.25

This might just be the closest of the opening round games.  The Bulls boast seven Springboks in their forward pack and the IRB Junior Player of the year in Handre Pollard so it’s a brave man who bets against them at Loftus.  We’ll back the Bulls by 7, only to be consistent with our majority home team picks.

Waratahs v Force, Sydney, Sunday 4.05pm

Waratahs – $1.16

Force – $5.35

The Super Rugby defending champions are heavily backed favourites for week 1.  The Force look weak on paper this year, and although we back them to win some games in Perth, the Tahs will be too comfortable at home.  Expect Izzy Folau to carve up the dry afternoon turf and set the early pace for try-scorers too.

Rugby: Super Rugby 2015 Preview

Posted on by Online Betting Pro

It’s that time of year again.  Right in the heart of summer, the Super Rugby season gets underway on Friday night.  We’ve got a run down of each side and their 2015 chances, with odds from Luxbet.

New Zealand Conference

BLUES

Squad: Charles Piutau, Lolagi Visinia, Tevita Li, Ben Lam, Frank Halai, George Moala, Hamish Northcott, Pita Ahki, Francis Saili, Dan Bowden, Ihaia West, Simon Hickey, Jimmy Cowan, Jamison Gibson-Park, Bryn Hall, Joe Edwards, Luke Braid, Brendon O’Connor, Jerome Kaino (capt), Steven Luatua, Hayden Triggs, Patrick Tuipulotu, Josh Bekhuis, Culum Retallick, Charlie Faumuina, Angus Ta’avao, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Tony Woodcock, Sam Prattley, Keven Mealamu, James Parsons.

Last Year: 10th

X-Factor: Charles Piutau is now a well established All Black squad member and will be hoping to use the 2015 Super Rugby season to springboard his chances for Rugby World Cup selection.  The exciting winger will make up part of an exciting back three for the Blues with Tevita Li, Frank Halai and George Moala all possibilities to join him.

2015 Chances: Pretty slim.  First five-eighth has always been a stick area for the Blues and this year they’re putting their money on youngsters Simon Hickey, Ihaia West and the returning Dan Bowden.  None of this numbers draws much excitement and could be another painful year for the City of Sails residents.

2015 Odds: $19.00

CHIEFS

Squad: Tim Nanai-Williams, Tom Marshall, Hosea Gear, James Lowe, Bryce Heem, Anton Lienert-Brown, Seta Tamanivalu, Charlie Ngatai, Sonny Bill Williams, Andrew Horrell, Aaron Cruden (co-capt), Damian McKenzie, Augustine Pulu, Brad Weber, Liam Squire, Sam Cane, Sean Polwart, Liam Messam (co-capt), Tevita Koloamatangi, Michael Leitch, Johan Bardoul, Brodie Retallick, Matt Symons, Michael Allardice, Mike Fitzgerald, Ben Tameifuna, Mitchell Graham, Jamie MacIntosh, Pauliasi Manu, Nathan Harris, Rhys Marshall, Quentin MacDonald.

Last Year: Qualifiers (5th)

X-Factor: It’s hard to overlook the World Rugby Player of the Year (Brodie Retallick) but the return of Sonny Bill Williams is likely to get most of the newspaper share.  After two seasons in the NRL, SBW returns to help the All Blacks go back to back at the World Cup.  Despite the season away he still has plenty about his game to like.  Look out for the offloads.

2015 Chances: Second favourites with the bookmakers on account of their fine record over the last three years.  Will go close again.

2015 Odds: $5.50

HURRICANES

Squad: Nehe Milner-Skudder, Matt Proctor, Jason Woodward, Cory Jane, Julian Savea, Vince Aso, Conrad Smith (capt), Reynold Lee-Lo, Ma’a Nonu, Willis Halaholo, Beauden Barrett, James Marshall, TJ Perenara, Chris Smylie, Victor Vito, Blade Thomson, Ardie Savea, Callum Gibbins, Iopu Iopu-Aso, Brad Shields, Mark Abbott, Jeremy Thrush, James Broadhurst, Christian Lloyd, Geoffrey Cridge, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Chris Eves, Ben Franks, Ben May, Reggie Goodes, Dane Coles, Motu Matu’u.

Last Year: 7th

X-Factor: It’s difficult to pick international stars as the players to watch when we know they’ll sit ut portions of the tournament in order to manage workloads ahead of the Rugby World Cup.  Nevertheless, Julian Savea cannot be ignore.  The best finisher in the World is the modern day Jonah Lomu and an important part of the Hurricanes side.

2015 Chances: The Hurricanes should be there or thereabouts come the business end of the competition.  Can be incredibly inconsistent at this level and tend to leak a few too many tries, but we expect them to finish in the top 8, and push for the qualifying rounds.

2015 Odds: $16.00

CRUSADERS

Squad: Israel Dagg, Johnny McNicholl, Nemani Nadolo, Jone Macilai, Robbie Fruean, Kieran Fonotia, Tom Taylor, Dan Carter, Colin Slade, Andy Ellis, Mitchell Drummond, Kieran Read (capt), Luke Whitelock, Matt Todd, Richie McCaw, Jordan Taufua, Jimmy Tupou, Luke Romano, Sam Whitelock, Dominic Bird, Scott Barrett, Owen Franks, Nepo Laulala, Wyatt Crockett, Joe Moody, Tim Perry, Ben Funnell, Codie Taylor, Ged Robinson.

Last Year: Beaten Finalists

X-Factor: With a host of Crusaders stars resting this year Nemani Nadolo is the x-factor after a breakout 2014.  Joint top try-scorer last year with 12, the Fijian has explosive speed and will be one of the top try-scorers again this year.

2015: Chances: Good as always.  Sure they’ll lose some AB’s, and they’ve lost Andy Ellis.  But they’re well-coached, well used to winning and brilliantly lead by Kieran Read.  Will go close.

2015 Odds: $5.50

HIGHLANDERS

Squad: Ben Smith (co-capt), Trent Renata, Kurt Baker, Patrick Osborne, Waisake Naholo, Richard Buckman, Malakai Fekitoa, Jason Emery, Shaun Treeby, Marty Banks, Lima Sopoaga, Hayden Parker, Aaron Smith, Fumiaki Tanaka, Nasi Manu (co-capt), Gareth Evans, Shane Christie, John Hardie, Dan Pryor, Elliot Dixon, Joe Wheeler, Mark Reddish, Tom Franklin, Alex Ainley, Ross Geldenhuys, Josh Hohneck, Brendon Edmonds, Kane Hames, Ma’afu Fia, Pingi Tala’apitaga, Liam Coltman, Ash Dixon.

Last Year: Qualifiers (6th)

X-Factor: 2014 was the year of Malakai Fekitoa.  Relatively unknown at the start of the year, Fekitoa reached the lofty heights of All Black mainstay, and even developed his game to play both midfield positions.  A strong runner, he also added some nice deft touches and kicking options later in the year too.

2015: Chances: They won’t win it, but they could upset some more favoured teams along the way to finishing around 10th.

2015 Odds: $41.00

Australian Conference

REBELS

Squad: Cruze Ah-Nau, Paul Alo-Emile, Luke Burgess, Cam Crawford, Steve Cummins, Jack Debreczeni, Tamati Ellison, Tom English, Colby Fainga’a, Scott Fuglistaller, Jed Gillespie, Mike Harris, Bryce Hegarty, Scott Higginbotham, Keita Inagaki, Mitch Inman, Sam Jeffries, Luke Jones, Tom Kingston, Pat Leafa, Sean McMahon, Ben Meehan, Tim Metcher, Sefanaia Naivalu, Cadeyrn Neville, Jonah Placid, Jordy Reid, Radike Samo, Tom Sexton, Dom Shipperley, Toby Smith, Nic Stirzaker, Lopeti Timani, Telusa Veainu, Laurie Weeks, Ben Whittaker.

Last Year: 15th

X-Factor: The Rebels coach, Damien Hill, recently said that “[In Scott Higginbotham] you’ve got one of the best ball-running, lineout jumping options in Australian rugby.  We won’t argue, he’ll be huge (figuratively) for the Rebels this year.

2015 Chances: Will struggle.

2015 Odds: $126.00

FORCE

Squad: Robbie Abel, Chris Alcock, Nathan Charles, Adam Coleman, Angus Cottrell, Pek Cowan, Tetera Faulkner, Ross Haylett-Petty, Chris Heiberg, Matt Hodgson, Oliver Hoskins, Steve Mafi, Ben McCalman, Brynard Stander, Wilhelm Steenkamp, Heath Tessman, Francois van Wyk, Rory Walton, Sam Wykes, Marcel Brache, Luke Burton, Nick Cummins, Pat Dellit, Sias Ebersohn, Kyle Godwin, Dane Haylett-Petty, Zack Holmes, Brad Lacey, Ryan Louwrens, Alby Mathewson, Luke Morahan, Albert Nikoro, Ian Prior, Junior Rasolea, Mitch Scott, Akihito Yamada.

Last Year: 8th

X-Factor: Nick Cummins doesn’t just have x-factor in television interviews – the Honey Badger as he’s affectionately known – is an accomplished finisher and after a quick stint in Japan has brokered a deal to make himself available for Super Rugby 2015.

2015 Chances: Enjoyed a relatively strong season last year despite not having many big name players.  Won’t be underestimated this year though, so we’re not expecting them to be factors in the tournament.

2015 Odds: $81.00

REDS

Squad: Curtis Browning, Ben Daley, Saia Faingaa, Lolo Fakaosilea, Liam Gill, James Hanson, Greg Holmes, James Horwill, David McDuling, Ed O’Donoghue, Eddie Quirk, Andrew Ready, Beau Robinson, Jake Schatz, James Slipper, Rob Simmons, Hendrik Tui, Adam Thomson, Quade Cooper, Anthony Faingaa, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Nick Frisby, Will Genia, Karmichael Hunt, Samuela Kerevi, Chris Kuridrani, Campbell Magnay, James O’Connor, Duncan Paia’aua, Ben Tapuai, Jamie-Jerry Taulagi, Lachie Turner.

Last Year: 13th

X-Factor: Karmichael Hunt will have plenty of eyes on him when he lines up for the Reds for the first time in 2015.  In fact, he’s lining up on a rugby pitch for the first time after successful stints in the NRL and AFL.  It takes a special player to play in all three formats and Special K is exactly that.

2015 Chances: Could spring a few surprises but likely to miss out on the top 6.

2015 Odds: $16.00

BRUMBIES

Squad: Allan Alaalatoa, Ben Alexander, Rory Arnold, Fotu Auelua, Jarrad Butler, Sam Carter, Sean Doyle, Blake Enever, Scott Fardy, Les Makin, Stephen Moore, Joshua Mann-Rea, David Pocock, Siliva Siliva, Scott Sio, Jordan Smiler, Jean-Pierre Smith, Ruan Smith, Tom Staniforth, Nigel Ah Wong, Robbie Coleman, James Dargaville, Michael Dowsett, Rod Iona, Tevita Kuridrani, Christian Lealiifano, Jesse Mogg, Henry Speight, Lausii Taliauli, Joe Tomane, Matt Toomua, Nic White.

Last Year: Semi-Finals

X-Factor: Tevita Kuridrani is one of the most underrated Australian backs in the game.  Every time he pulls on a Wallabies jumper he looks dangerous, yet doesn’t always get the game time he deserves.  It will be interesting to see how his hard line ball running goes in a World Cup year.

2015 Chances: Well coached, and very difficult to beat at home.  Should make the top 6.

2015 Odds: $12.00

WARRATAHS

Squad: Michael Alaalatoa, Mitchell Chapman, Dennis, Tala Gray, Stephen Hoiles, Jed Holloway, Michael Hooper, Sekope Kepu, Tolu Latu, Pat McCutcheon, Wycliff Palu, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Jacques Potgieter, Hugh Roach, Benn Robinson, Paddy Ryan, Will Skelton, Jeremy Tilse, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Kurtley Beale, Peter Betham, Matt Carraro, Bernard Foley, Israel Folau, Rob Horne, David Horwitz, Jono Lance, Kotaro Matsushima, Brendan McKibbin, Taqele Naiyaravoro, Nick Phipps, Ben Volavola.

Last Year: Winners

X-Factor: Israel Folau is quite simply one of the world’s best.  A devastatingly good 2014 saw him jointly top the try-scoring charts and guide the Warratahs to the title.  Folau breaks tackles at will with his languid angled running, and has proved difficult to stop in domestic and international rugby.

2015 Chances: Excellent chance of repeating their 2014 win.

2015 Odds: $4.50

South African Conference

SHARKS

Squad: Lourens Adriaanse, Mouritz Botha, Renaldo Bothma, Dale Chadwick, Michael Claassens, Marcell Coetzee, Kyle Cooper, Lionel Cronjé, Jean Deysel, Bismarck du Plessis, Jannie du Plessis, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Thomas du Toit, Andre Esterhuizen, Monde Hadebe, Conrad Hoffmann, Ryan Kankowski, Patrick Lambie, Khaya Majola, Franco Marais, SP Marais, Beast Mtawarira, Tera Mtembu, Lubabalo Mtyanda, Waylon Murray, Lwazi Mvovo, Odwa Ndungane, Etienne Oosthuizen, Paul Perez, JP Pietersen, Cobus Reinach, S’bura Sithole, Matt Stevens, Frans Steyn, Stefan Ungerer, Marco Wentzel, Heimar Williams, Jack Wilson, Cameron Wright, Fred Zeilinga.

Last Year: Semi-Finals

X-Factor: Bismarck du Plessis is an incredibly gifted athlete.  He has size, presence, and feet, and is equally happy on defence or attack.  The brute of a man sometimes attracts controversy for his aggressive approach, but just to be clear, he has x-factor by the bicep load.

2015 Chances: They’ll be the best of the South African bunch and should be around at the business end of the tournament.  Need to get themselves home finals if they want to seal the deal.

2015 Odds: $8.00

LIONS

Squad: Marnitz Boshoff, Andries Coetzee, Robin Coetzee, Ruan Combrinck, Ross Cronje, Faf de Klerk, Steph de Witt, Ruan Dreyer, Corne Fourie, Stokkies Hanekom, Elton Jantjies, Jaco Kriel, Robert Kruger, Ruaan Lerm, MB Lusaseni, Malcolm Marx, Lionel Mapoe, Sampie Mastriet, Derick Minnie, Howard Mnisi, Franco Mostert, Martin Muller, Julian Redelinghuys, Mark Richards, Courtnall Skosan, Warwick Tecklenburg, Armand van der Merwe, Schalk van der Merwe, Jaco van der Walt, Jacques van Rooyen, Anthony Volmink, Harold Vorster, Warren Whiteley (capt).

Last Year: 12th

X-Factor: The Lions have two main contenders for their most important player.  But neigher of them have x-factpr per se.  Marnitz Boshoff is one of the premium goal kickers in the competition.  Very rarely misses and often keeps his side in the hunt.  Their baby faced captain on the other hand Warren Whitely is the engine room of the pack.  Both crucial to their chances.

2015 Chances: No chance.

2015 Odds: $151.00

CHEETAHS

Squad: Caylib Oosthuizen, BG Uys, Danie Minnie, Torsten van Jaarsveld, Martin Bezuidenhout, Stefan Coetzee, Coenie Oosthuizen, Maks van Dyk, Ewald van der Westhuizen, Carl Wegner, Lodewyk de Jager, Francois Uys, Armand Koster, Boom Prinsloo, Carel Greeff, Jean Cook, Tienie Burger, Oupa Mohoje, Willie Britz, Sarel Pretorius, Shaun Venter, Tian Meyer, Joe Petersen, Willie du Plessis, Francois Brummer, Raymond Rhule, Cornal Hendricks, Danie Dames, Francois Venter, Rayno Benjamin, Michael van der Spuy, Johan Sadie, JW Jonker, Willie le Roux, Clayton Blommetjies.

Last Year: 14th

X-Factor: His South African coach recently hailed him as the world’s best fullback, which is no mean feat when others include Israel Dagg, Ben Smith and Israel Folau.  But Willie le Roux might just be able to back up that claim with a strong 2015.

2015 Chances: Also no chance.

2015 Odds: $151.00

BULLS

Squad: Arno Botha, Jacques du Plessis, Dean Greyling, Grant Hattingh, Nico Janse van Rensburg, Werner Kruger, Lappies Labuschagne, Hanro Liebenberg, Bandise Maku, Victor Matfield, Morne Mellett, Trevor Nyakane, Marvin Orie, RG Snyman, Pierre Spies, Deon Stegmann, Adriaan Strauss, Flip van der Merwe, Marcel van der Merwe, Callie Visagie, Jaco Visagie, Bjorn Basson, Ulrich Beyers, JJ Engelbrecht, Wayne Gelant, Francois Hougaard, Travis Ismaiel, Jesse Kriel, Duncan Matthews, Akona Ndungane, Burger Odendaal, Rudy Paige, Handre Pollard, Jacques-Louis Potgieter, Jan Serfontein, William Small-Smith, Jamba Ulengo, Piet van Zyl, Jurgen Visser.

Last Year: 9th

X-Factor: At just 20 years of age, Handre Pollard has already chalked up an impressive 9 test matches including when he helped stop the All Blacks impressive 22 match unbeaten record in Johannesburg.  Pollard was last year awarded the IRB Young Player of the Year acclaim, and we’re excited to see what he can do in his third year of Super Rugby.

2015 Chances: Should do okay in 2015 if they can get a couple of wins on the road.  Have a handy draw to help them on their way.

2015 Odds: $13.00

STORMERS

Squad: Ruan Botha, Schalk Burger, Manuel Carizza, Nizaam Carr, Rynhard Elstadt, Eben Etzebeth, Oliver Kebble, Steven Kitshoff, Jean Kleyn, Vincent Koch, Siya Kolisi, Wilco Louw, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Siyabonga Ntubeni, Neil Rautenbach, Michael Rhodes, Jurie van Vuuren, Frans van Wyk, Alistair Vermaak, Duane Vermeulen, Michael Willemse, Demetri Catrakilis, Kurt Coleman, Damian de Allende, Juan de Jongh, Robert du Preez, Ryno Eksteen, Nick Groom, Pat Howard, Huw Jones, Cheslin Kolbe, Johnny Kotze, Dillyn Leyds, Godlin Masimla, Louis Schreuder, Jaco Taute, Kobus van Wyk, EW Viljoen.

Last Year: 11th

X-Factor: Duane Vermeulen was one of the best players in World Rugby last year.  His combative and aggressive approach unsettles plenty of opposition players and saw him nominated for the IRB Player of the Year award.  Some say he should have won, so he might have some frustration to take out on Super Rugby players.

2015 Chances: Could be the dark horses of the South African conference.  Don’t write off.

2015 Odds: $14.00