So I don't think we can expect the drip feed signings like other clubs do. The QRU seem to just name the whole squad, plus I don't now if there's much recruiting to do.
From our records on the front page we have 24 players signed for next year.
24 signed
Hookers – Alex Mafi & Josh Nasser
THPs – Taniela Tupou & Zane Nongorr
LHPs – Harry Hoopert
Locks – Lukhan Salakai-Loto, Angus Blyth, Ryan Smith, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Wilson Blyth
Backrower – Harry Wilson & Fraser McReight
Scrumhalf – Tate McDermott & Kalani Thomas
Flyhalf – James O’Connor
Centres – Hamish Stewart, Hunter Paisami, Jordan Petaia & Josh Flook
Wings – Suliasi Vunivalu, Iliaisa Droasese & Filipo Daugunu
Fullback – Jock Campbell & Mac Grealy
Now, I am not entirely sure if Wilson Blyth is on a development contract again next year or a full one (he probably should still be on a development one as I don't think he's quite ready).
From the un-signed guys of this year I think we can add in:
- Dane Zander as another LHP and Feao Fotuaika who can play both sides. Hoopert probably as 12 months to prove his worth.
- Liam Wright, Angus Scott-Young and Seru Uru as backrowers (with Uru covering lock as well if needed)
- Bryce Hegarty as back up 10 acknowledging that Hamish Stewart proved a reliable back up late in the season plus we have young Lynagh and Anan in the development program.
- Isaac Henry deserves a full time contract too
That takes us up to 31 which must be close to the mark considering the reduced salary cap. We need another hooker as Nasser isn't up to it yet (but is a fine back third option). James Hanson could be one, but depends on salary cap. Perhaps we get Rhys Van Nek back or consider Richie Asiata a hooker option.
A third scrumhalf is needed too. So we either take James Tuttle who is keen to come back apparently or chase Ben Meehan or do we back another youngster in Spencer Jeans or the like.
In short, the same squad basically as this year. Which will be fine for Super Rugby AU (Force one to watch next year, Brumbies look shaky). But it's going to require a mammoth improvement across the squad (playing and coaching) for us to be competitive with the kiwis.