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Congratulations! You have just been appointed recruitment manager for Argentina’s Super Rugby franchise. The owner has charged you with finding (or poaching if you prefer) 15 recruits to bolster the squad for their inaugural season.
However, the budget you have to work with is tight and a careful mixture of journeymen, youth and flair, along with marquee players, is needed. For the purpose of this exercise, you can only afford three current internationals.
What qualities do you look for? Youth, experience or a plain old bargain?
Who would you set your sights on? Here is who I would target
Fullback – Robbie Robinson
Robbie is a solid fullback with a fantastic resumé. His experience at the Chiefs, along with his versatility, would be of particular value at a new franchise.
Other possible targets – Jayden Hayward, Cam Crawford.
Right wing – Lachie Turner
Lachie is a veteran at Super level and a consistent performer who would be invaluable to have around for the younger charges.
Other possible targets – Rod Davies, Richard Buckman.
Centre – Gio Aplon
Gio is a dynamic ball runner who has been a constant threat in the Stormers’ backline. He would bring some much needed flair.
Other possible targets – Paul Jordaan, George Moala.
Second five – Shaun Treeby
Shaun has a nose for a gap, knows when to straighten the attack and is solid in defence – a much underrated player.
Other possible targets – Damien de Allende, Charlie Ngatai.
Left wing – Robbie Coleman
Not predominantly a winger by trade, but his versatility is a bonus and he has been outstanding for the Brumbies – if only in a caretaker role.
Other possible targets – Matt Procter, James Lowe.
First five – Aaron Cruden
The first major expenditure, this bloke could drive a herd of Sanson’s largest bulls through the smallest China shop, he is that good. Still young, you can build a team around him.
Other possible targets – Beauden Barrett, Pat Lambie.
Halfback – Francois de Klerk
I just love this scrappy wee bugger. As they say, it’s not the size of the dog in the fight, it’s the size of the fight in the dog – he epitomises this perfectly.
Other possibe targets – Fumiaaki Tanaka, Sarel Pretorius.
Number 8 – Curtis Browning
I like what I have seen from this young man. He’s a bit of a punt but he would be a good investment and could possibly prove to be a future captain.
Other possible targets – Nasi Manu, Liam Squire.
Openside – Heinrich Brussow
The second of my big buys and perhaps costly, but ‘Ratel’ would be a fantastic acquisition. He does not seem to be getting a lot of love from the South African selectors at present, which I find astonishing.
Yes, I did think about Richie McCaw and Michael Hooper, but I don’t think there would be any use in contacting them!
Other possible targets – Matt Hodgson, Liam Gill.
Blindside – Jacques Potgieter
Hasn’t this bloke been a revelation for the Waratahs? Throws himself into everything (and everyone) and his energy and enthusiasm must be great to have around the playing group.
Other possible targets – Willie Britz, Jean Deysel.
Lock – Brodie Retallick
The last big buy – his work rate and consistency is nothing short of astonishing. Brodie just keeps on getting better with every outing.
Other possible targets – Eben Eztebeth, Pieter Steph du Toit.
Lock – Jack Whetton
Jack is a fine young prospect who would benefit playing regularly with Brodie.
Other possible targets – Martin Muller, Anton Bresler.
Tighthead prop – Kieran Longbottom
Hardworking and consistent prop, I have been really impressed by his play this year in a smaller pack. Surprised he doesn’t figure in most conversations for the Wallabies.
Other possible targets – Greg Holmes, Morne Mellet.
Hooker – Albert Anae
I really like this kid. Big, strong and versatile in that he can prop as well, value for money.
Other possible targets – Shota Horie, James Parsons.
Loosehead prop – Reggie Goodes
Reggie has had his injury concerns, but I would be willing to take a gamble on this young loosehead. He is underrated and, if he can stay injury free, has a good career in front of him.
Other possible targets – Max Lahiff, Steven Kitshoff.
What do you think Roarers? Who would you target in this hypothetical situation?
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