It seems to me that every year there is one guy who comes through out of the blue and commands a starting spot over another player who was widely tipped to get it. I am interested in which player(s) people think that might be next year. Or maybe just a young guy who is going to storm through and nail a starting spot.
The obvious picks are McReight, Wilson & Lucas, but in terms of guys who are not necessarily rated as highly, my tip is Campbell. I think most would have him behind the likes of Daugunu, Speight & Hegarty (or Lucas) in the back three - but I was pretty impressed with him this year. He just seems to have a bit of spark about him and I reckon he might win a starting spot - possibly in front of Speight - whom I rate, but who is past his best.
Its a tough exercise, given the machinations, but one I think about a bit.
I can't see how Wilson doesn't start the season at 8.
If Lucas plays 10, I think Jock will be right in the running to play 15, which I think is his best position. Carter Gordon will be our 10 at some point, whether it is this season or most likely 2021.
I am a big fan of Bryce but it all depends on how we want to use him.
12, 13 are obviously settled (although Hamish is playing very well at 12 as well). Speight will take a wing, and then it is a little bit of a log jam for the other wing spot.
Right now, on the back of the NRC I think the Daugunu needs to start. But to be honest he always dominates that competition.
In the forwards it depends where Lukhan plays, but I think Blythe could be a smoky.
Will be very interesting to see how we play Wright and McReight - whether we do a one, two punch - or let them play together.
I really hope Lukhan plays in the row with Rodda and then we alternate Hocko/Blythe as the bench lock.
Hoopert will be the best loosehead next season if he isn't already.
Ideal backrow for me is ASY (Angus Scott-Young), Wilson, Wright/McReight alternating - but I think if we want to play them both we certainly could.