Predicting the squad, keeping in mind who will be available come July. This is who I’d like to see.
Props:
De Groot,
Lomax
Newell
Norris
Tosi
Numia
Hooker:
Taukeiaho
Taylor
Aumua
Locks:
Vai’i
Barrett
Lord
Darry
Loosies:
Savea
Sititi
Lakai
Kirifi
Segner
Halfbacks:
Roigard
Hotham
Ratima
First Fives:
Love
McKenzie
Barrett
Centres:
Barrett
Tupaea
Faianganuku
Proctor
Tavatavanawai
Outsides:
Jordan
Clarke
Tangitau
Carter
Would’ve made it if available:
Williams
Holland
Pledger
Finianganofo
I wouldn’t be surprised if ALB makes it and I wouldn’t be mad at it given we are a bit light in the 13 position and I still think ALB is a good player.
On the contrary, I would be both surprised and disappointed if Ioane makes it, even as a winger. He’s just not good enough anymore.
Speaking of wingers, I can’t remember a bigger loss of potential at the wrong time than Finianganofo. This guy is a freak and hitting absolute prime form. If he wasn’t leaving he’d be starting for me and a potential World Cup star next year… oh well.
Both Holland and Pledger showed me enough last year that, if fit, I’m confident they both be there this year (which would mean Darry and Ratima missing out - Ratima has been badly out of form)
Segner is probably the biggest surprise pick - I just think his form has been too good - he’s super busy, athletic and is young. But there are a number of good options here.
Also, it’s worth noting that while I’ve listed 5 centers, 4 outsides, 5 loosies etc. just keep in mind what other positions people play
Based on this squad, this is the 23 I’d go with:
De Groot
Taukeiaho
Lomax
Barrett
Vai’i
Sititi
Savea (C)
Lakai
Roigard
Love
Clarke
Barrett
Tupaea
Tangitau
Jordan
Taylor
Norris
Newell
Lord
Kirifi
Hotham
McKenzie
Faianganuku
Thoughts?