The Brumbies, by virtue of their dominance in recent years, have been hardest hit by the requirements. Overall, nine players will miss two games and not be permitted to play more than five consecutive weeks.
With the bye in round nine, Larkham had a three-week window for the first rest cycle. Last Saturday's home game against Moana Pasifika, the Canterbury Crusaders on Friday and next week's showdown with the Waratahs in Canberra.
While there was no easy choice, the
Crusaders emerged as the best option.
A trip to New Zealand on the back of a short turnaround and wedged in between two home games, it was always going to be a tough assignment.
The news surprised some fans. Surely last week's clash against Super Rugby newcomers Moana was a better option?
Given the Brumbies lost to Moana last year, it was not an automatic victory and resting players would have robbed the club's fans the opportunity to watch the team's best players at home.