OSPREYS INS AND OUTS
HOW WILL THEY FARE THIS SEASON?
The record four-time league champions posted their worst finish in history when they came eighth last year. But, with a significant contingent who missed the start of last season because of the World Cup available this time, you suspect they will be back challenging at the top end of the table.
It could be a defining season for coach Steve Tandy because they haven’t lifted any silverware for four years.
WHAT SHOULD BE THEIR STRENGTH?
A powerful pack able to boss most opponents around in the Pro12 although there is some concern over their scrummaging ability.
The acquisition of Wales international Bradley Davies has added to their already rich resources at lock while the recovery of talented centre Ashley Beck from long-term injuries is a massive bonus.
WHAT COULD BE THEIR WEAKNESS?
Strength in depth, particularly at prop and in their three-quarters with injuries having cast a shadow over their strike-power in recent years.
They need to keep Beck fit and hope Kieron Fonotia, who they have signed from Super Rugby big-hitters Crusaduers, shines.
WHO COULD BE THEIR KEY PLAYER?
Dan Biggar has not only been a main man with his prolific points-scoing but he’s also a big personality in self-styled Ospreylia. However, he’s facing a genuine challenge for the play-making role at outside-half from Sam Davies.
As ever, skipper Alun Wyn Jones, who appeared shattered towards the end of last season, will be responsible for galvanising the Ospreys
DESCRIBE THEIR RECRUITMENT IN TERMS OF A TRIP TO THE SHOPS?
A broad range from a high-quality product in Bradley Davies and a potentially high-end one in Kieron Fonotia, right, to lower-end bargains in prop Rhodri Jones and hooker or prop Hugh Gustafson.
WHERE WILL THEY FINISH IN LEAGUE?
Provided they don’t get too many injuries, the only way is up. They have got one of the strongest squads in the Pro12, may benefit from missing out on Champions Cup rugby, and could make it a fifth league title. Players In: Bradley Davies (Wasps), Rhodri Jones (Scarlets), Hugh Gustafson (Dragons), Kieron Fonotia (Crusaders). Players Out: Aaron Jarvis (Clermont Auvergne), Kristian Phillips (London Welsh), Marc Thomas (Jersey Reds), Ifereimi Boladau (London Scottish), Rynier Bernardo (Scarlets), Jordan Collier (released), Matthew Dwyer (released), Lloyd Evans (released), Richard Fussell (backs skills coach), Rhodri Hughes (released), Aled Jenkins (released), Gareth Delve (released).