Former Wallabies winger Drew Mitchell has looked back on the All Blacks’ first season under coach Scott Robertson.
Scott Robertson, highly untypical of New Zealand's approach, has taken a risk-averse view of selection.
Let me take you back to 2013 when I was coaching the Brumbies. We were always on the lookout for emerging talent and we’d had a tip-off about a young kid, who was playing for a club called Wests on the Sunshine Coast, and playing in a match against a local university team. If there were a few hundred people watching him, it would surprise me, but this shaggy-haired full-back had something, so we fast tracked him into the Brumbies set-up. Boy, he could move.
Here we are, about to begin another season of Premiership Women’s Rugby. Last season saw Gloucester-Hartpury Women lift the trophy once again, winning a free-flowing finale against Bristol Bears Women.
The Argentine pivot fits his team's style and structure far better than his illustrious All Blacks peer.
The South African kingpin knows he must rejuvenate his squad, but which ageing warriors will be cut loose?
I know over in New Zealand there is a lot of hand-wringing over the South Africans leaving Super Rugby but it’s not as big an issue as it’s made out. Put it this way, they didn’t struggle to impose their physicality on our shores back then. I’m not sold on that argument but it’s difficult to deny their crown has slipped somewhat in recent years.
South Africa have looked frighteningly impressive in attack this year as they embark on their quest for Rugby Championship glory.
Sale Sharks have built their best squad yet. It’s a rich tapestry of youth and experience – with players from down the road and across the pond. Rachel Taylor’s outfit were fearless competitors, and clinched their single biggest result this weekend.
RugbyPass gives the rundown for the 2022/23 Premier 15s, sharing some key signings and giving our best estimate of where each team will finish out the regular season.