I think it is pretty obvious that this year the playing depth of all the sides is being very heavily tested, not only by those who have left but by injuries. Also being thoroughly shown up is the lack of depth in skills training. I just don't think we have the depth in either playing numbers at the required level or in the coaches to actually get the players up to a high enough standard.
The Force whilst they again did what they do best and gave a good showing I don't think anybody ever really thought that they would win. This is not to disparage the efforts of the players there can be no doubt whatsoever that they really put in. But the fact is that away from defence and set piece the skills of all the Australian players are just substandard. How many kicks are pop gun, misdirected or so telegraphed they are easily charged? How many passes are to the recipient's feet, above their head or behind them? How many knock ons in a game?
This is not just an attack on the Force, they were the best performed of all the Australian sides this weekend just gone. The Brumbies were woeful, the Rebels and Tahs on a race to the bottom in regards to skill standards.
Playing numbers is only one factor to consider whether the Australian conference can sustain 5 teams. Coaching and development systems are also a requirement and frankly a short stint of NRC will not address the skills deficit that a long sustained coaching program can. I have heard here enough that at the elite level basic skills are cannot be the focus of the coaching staff with limited time. In that case then it will not be the focus of a NRC coach either who has a very short window with the players. It comes back to the disparaged clubs.