Reasons for Hope
After the 2015 World Cup, plenty of seasoned campaigners have moved on and teams have taken the opportunity to refresh their squads. Let me see if I can find that silver lining for you, as well as trying to work out what teams are actually in what conference. Starting this week with….
Africa 2 Conference
Team |
Reason for Hope |
|
|
There are not many teams that will have the national representation as the Jaguars. This team could really set the pace in their conference. With so many representative caps and a style that will replicate the successful national one, its hard not to tip them to win their pool.Only a lack of experience in this long competition when bench depth and player stability are key factors could hold them back.I’m tipping a tough as nails team with a strong semi finals showing and a winning season above .500 |
|
|
With head coach Deon Davids who has plenty of Vodacom and Currie Cup success, The Southern Kings should be able to bring together a team to mount a stronger case than their last effort in 2013. If they can finish in a better state in the back and front office than they did in 2013 it will be a good sign.They beat the Western Force in 2013 so they have that going for them. |
|
|
They’ve got 3 more International caps than the Southern Kings, which isn’t saying much. They also play from Ellis Park, that no one likes to play at except the home team. Hard man and former Springbok Johan Ackerman will coach the Lions again this year. In 2014 he was SARU Coach of the year.They should finish above the Southern Kings in the conference, but won’t challenge the Jaguars or the Sharks. |
|
|
Of the Africa 2 Conference, The Sharks will be the team to take it to the Jaguars. One of the most consistent South African teams, with players like Tendai ‘Beast’ Mtawarira, Willem Alberts, JP Pietersen and Patrick Lambie. They will outshine the Southern Kings and Lions.Also keep an eye out for the lone Namibian in the squad, Johan Deysal who has scored a test try against the All Blacks.They’d be the hope of the conference if it weren’t for those new kids. |
