Super 14 Preview 2010: The New Zealand Challenge

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at Internationaled.org

Published: February 9, 2010

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Once again I expect a strong showing from the Kiwi sides, although I don’t expect the pecking order to change too much from recent times. The Crusaders will lead the way with Carter, the Hurricanes are often tough to beat, the Blues and Chiefs lack the top class players to perform consistently and the Highlanders will be found out again.

Blues Never got going in 2009 and coach Pat Lam has looked to bolster problematic positions. Have gained Stephen Brett from the Crusaders to run their ship, and he’ll be supported by young Daniel Kirkpatrick from the Hurricanes.

Scrumhalf Alby Mathewson is another addition, whilst the return of Luke McAlister from overseas will fill both the inside centre and goal kicking headaches. Pace on the wings but fullback could be a weakness.

A squad with talent and some great players, but lack the overall class, finals experience and consistency needed to win a Super 14.

Prediction: Middle of the pack




Chiefs The Chiefs are last season’s finalists who finished the season strong before being walloped in the final. Big things are expected this year and this franchise has never performed well with the weight of expectation.

Minimal personnel changes, but many of the unknown players from last year will have to deal with second season syndrome.

In my opinion, they have erred greatly in giving thug Sione Lauaki leadership responsibility. Intelligent decisions are not his forte and they’ll need that away from home. If they lose games at home they’ll never repeat last season’s success.

Prediction: Middle of the pack




Crusaders Have New Zealand’s two best players in Richie McCaw and Dan Carter. If McCaw is rested for part of the Super 14 it may affect their campaign but this side has plenty of depth and will be bolstered with the return of lock Chris Jack and the arrival of wing Zac Guilford.
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Rugby Union

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