Influence: The countdown continues
once was for the Crusaders, still a class act and big-time performer when it really matters. Delayed entry and load management will limit impact early, but expect him to be firing round the back half of the Super season.
15 Israel Folau (Waratahs) Age: 29. Position: Fullback/ centre.
Think what you like about his views on certain matters, this guy remains a class act on the rugby field and a major part of whatever the Waratahs hope to achieve in this competition.
There is no one better in the air than this gifted athlete and though he can drift in and out of games a little, when he’s engaged and dialled in he is an absolute matchwinner. Tahs need him at his best to go any better than a quarterfinal exit. 14 Matt Todd (Crusaders) Age: 30. Position: Flanker. Absolutely vital to whatever the Crusaders do. Outstanding allround No 7, brilliant linkman, defends stoutly, attacks breakdown and thrives in the structured, disciplined style of the back-to-back champions.
With so many world-class players around him, Todd understands his role and the freedom he has to execute it. There’s a reason he’s been popping back and forth to Japan the last few years. They know what a valuable performer he is.
13 Duane Vermeulen (Bulls) Age: 32. Position: Loose forward. As tough and rugged as they come. Vermeulen is the go-to goforward guy for every team he plays for. He invariably gets over the gain-line and commands huge respect from opposition.
Back in South African rugby for the first time since 2015, he will be the chief influence in a big Bulls pack that will key off his formidable qualities, and needs to stay injury-free for them to sustain their challenge.
12 Codie Taylor (Crusaders) Age: 27. Position: Hooker.
The All Blacks No 2 is right on top of his game and looks well placed to deliver another world-class season for his franchise. Very good at his core roles, but has developed his fitness, workrate and skillset to become a major factor all over the park.
When the Crusaders have their hooker popping passes out wide and crashing over to finish sweeping, multi-phase plays they are tough to beat. He says he is aiming to lift his standards even higher in 2019.
11 Michael Hooper (Waratahs)
Age: 27 Position: flanker.
As good as it gets in the Aussie game. Tough, tenacious, resilient and highly skilled around the breakdown and running support lines. A constant for a Tahs side that would be lost without his leadership, stellar play and inspirational presence.
Must just keep on keeping on if the Tahs are to stay top of what looks an improved Aussie conference this year. Expect him to do just that.
Openside