'The real deal': Love 'em or hate 'em, the Reds are exactly what Australian rugby needs
The Reds are the real deal. Les Kiss’ side have now played all five Kiwi sides, beating three and pushing both the Hurricanes and…
As the 2012 Super Rugby competition looms, it is interesting to note that each of the five Australian franchises is still undecided as to who will be the number 10 this season.
Queensland would be the only state not having to wonder about it, if not for Quade Cooper’s injury. But with Cooper out, even the Reds don’t yet know the answer for their team.
The Rebels are spoilt for choice – will it be James O’Connor or Danny Cipriani? personally, I think it’s a no-brainer that O’Connor should be playing No 12, so there really should be no issue there.
Does Berrick Barnes play 10 for the Waratahs, or do they stick with Halangahu?
Presumably, Matt Toomua gets his chance again, but Christian Lealiifano is definitely in the mix.
Willie Ripia left the Force in the lurch and they are looking, but I do think James Stannard deserves his chance, based on his form of last season.
The Reds are probably in the best position, but they have at least three contenders, and possibly four, with Harris, Lance, Lucas and probably a few others.
Just about every backline is brimming with talent, and most of the states have reasonably un-seasoned half backs, so the No. 10 position is going to be sharply in focus this season.
With the movement of Kurtley Beale, O’Connor and Adam Ashley-Cooper to new franchises, it is almost as if that talent in every backline is almost equal. The No. 10 battle will be absorbing, to say the least.
Join The Roar rugby editor Christy Doran, former Wallaby Matt Toomua and a cast of regular and special guests as they look at the biggest issues in the game on The Roar Rugby Podcast. If you’re looking for great odds on the next game check out Aussie bookmaker PlayUp. Chances are you’re about to lose. Set a deposit limit.
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