So much to mull over so early on
The first round of Super Rugby has expired and already there has been plenty to discuss. Sanzaar officials are going under the blowtorch, the Blues need to fix their mental frailties and Waratahs mischief maker Kurtley Beale has had some explaining to do. Here’s 10 talking points ahead of round two:
1. Shannon Frizell’s performance at No 6 will be something to focus on when the Highlanders meet the Reds tonight.
With Liam Squire already featuring in the medicos diary (hip injury), Frizell gets his first run-on start of the season. Which means the fight for the All Blacks’ blindside flanker spot is already gaining heat; Jordan Taufua, Jackson Hemopo, Vaea Fifita and Akira Ioane are all potential options to make the Japan-bound Squire squirm.
2. Regardless of what unfolds in Dunedin, Reds coach and former All Blacks lock Brad Thorn deserves a warm reception.
Mosgiel-born Thorn, who ended his playing career in New Zealand at the Highlanders in 2014, will be desperate for the Queenslanders to claim a scalp in his first visit to Forsyth Barr Stadium as a coach. It’s highly unlikely to happen. The Highlanders, having named nine All Blacks in the starting XV, should have too much X-factor inside the best stadium in New Zealand.
3. Walking headline Kurtley Beale gets his first gallop for the Waratahs against the Sunwolves in Tokyo tomorrow.
Leaked videos of off-field shenanigans meant the Wallabies star had to offer the media an explanation prior to the team leaving Sydney. Spare a thought for Rugby Australia chief executive Raelene Castle. She must jump with fright whenever a memo with Beale’s name in the subject line appears in her inbox.
4. Crusaders No 10 Richie Mo’unga was quiet when his side somehow escaped with a 24-22 win over the Blues in Auckland.
You got the feeling that he was still finding his groove following the summer break, and in time will get his motor firing. It might be harder for another All Blacks playmaker, Brett Cameron, to get exposure. With the more experienced Mitchell Hunt providing cover for No 10 and fullback from the bench, Cameron is going to have to be patient.