Ready to ruck ‘n’ roll

Bulletin rugby reporter Nic Darveniza casts his eye over the GCDRU field

Helensvale Hogs

Nobody does an underdog story quite like the Helensvale crew. Some of their biggest stars from last year’s Grand Final boilover have moved on, including coach Tai Vea. New coaches Willie Todd and Josh James must inspire greatness to defend the Hogs’ crown. Key recruits: Shevell Samia, Ray Gover

Griffith Uni Knights

Defeated in last year’s grand final by unheralded Helensvale, Knights have recruited heavily to ensure they’ll go one better this year. Will the favourites’ new stars click in time for the finals? It’s the big question that could decide the 2020 premiership. Key recruits: Tony Bartley, Larry Hermens

Surfers Paradise Dolphins

The Dolphins came within a game of a fourth consecutive Grand Final appearance last year. Their program, led by coach Rangi Joseph, is going through a rebuild with one of the youngest cores around.

Key recruits: Nikau McGregor, Geoff Williams

Nerang Bulls

Improvement on last year’s fourth place is all coach Johnny Maniapoto is worrying about. If his squad can find their fun along the way they will be a dangerous foe for every club.

Key recruit: Scott Sutherland

Gold Coast Eagles

The Eagles missed the finals last year and face an uphill climb to improve. Coach Jai Johnson is a top operator and his squad will need every fibre of his tactical nous to climb into the finals.

Key recruits: Shem Bush, Matiu Farrance

Bond Pirates

The Pirates have been decimated by the COVID-19 shutdown, with eight recruits abandoning ship for work reasons. Former Hurricanes Under-20s skipper Xavier Pereka and skipper Bradley Plant will lead a punchy backrow unit. Key recruits: Xavier Pereka, Manasseh Alaga

Palm Beach Currumbin Alleygators

The Gators are hungry. A strong recruiting class will have PBC snapping at the heels of 2019’s finalists after a season in reserve grade. The Gators were a popular choice for 2020’s dark horse. Key recruits: Andrew Vatuvei,

Logo Fotofili

Coomera Crushers

It’s been nearly a decade since Crushers featured in the Phil Temperton Cup, but they’re back in 2020. A heavy Kiwi influence will provide a competitive backbone as they adjust to the pace of first grade.

Key recruits: Andrew Gentles,

Jay Esgrove