I thought I would put my thoughts down on the local boys who I have seen running around the paddock:
Paul Alo-Emile- A real special in the team. Very strong at scrum time and as he learns his trade will be on the international scene before too long. Has a real future in rugby
Blake Enever- Haven't seen too much of him as he didn't get too much exposure in the early season games. Very likely looking type but in my opinion will need to impose himself more to go further. Uncertain as to his skill level but has the physical attributes
Jarrad Butler- Quality backrower that displays a good understanding of the game. Strong with ball skills, I think he can come back from the tournament with an enhanced reputation
Liam Gill- I've watched Gill a few times now and like speccie and tranq, I believe he has the goods. The first couple of times I saw him he didn't respect the ref enough, but he is maturing well and I tip him to continue on his successful way.
Eddie Quirk- As some have mentioned, the fiery ranga, a must for the team. Been playing a fair bit of premier rugby and is up to the mark. Will go well in Italy
Eddie Bredenhann- Haven't seen him for a couple of years so perhaps others will have a better idea.
Matt Lucas- Lee mentioned that he was fairly small and he probably is. In his second year of prems rugby he is tough and has a very good skill set and I would be surprised if Eddie starts over him. He played us in a trial and has bulked up a lot
Joel Faulkner- Needs to have a strong tournament to reinstate his reputation. Has also been playing a bit of prems and can be very hard to control when his game is on song
Tevita Kuridrani- Haven't seen much but on the occassion that I watched him he was very good. I am expecting a fair bit from him
Simon Morahan- I think people have to stop comparing Simon to his brother. He is a local Coast lad with potential. He needs a strong tournament also to keep his name in lights
Dom Shipperley- Could be one of the stars of the tournament. A big lad, strong and fast, has developed well since school. I don't think he will let anyone down.
Kimami Sitauti- I am probably hoping for a bit of a revival here for Kimami. Probably got too many wraps too early and has had trouble living up to the hype. Now is his time to shine in his own class and I for one hope he does
All in all, the factor I fear is that the boys are not used to the heavy physical games that say the JAB's or the English will play. We will have the talent but as Lee has said, I hope we can handle the wolves