Signals a regions
Ulster These are testing times for the Belfast boys. They’ve depended on Ruan Pienaar to steer the team around for so long and now he’s gone, with the IRFU refusing to allow him to stay on much to the chagrin of all at the province.
Ulster have moved to fill the gap by signing Wallaby back Christian Lealiifano on a five-month deal, but it could be a challenging campaign for them and they are fortunate to be in what looks the slightly-weaker section. PREDICTION: Third Edinburgh It’s definitely going to be lively in the Scottish capital with Richard Cockerill coming in as head coach.
The former Leicester boss has already set his stall out, looking to the past by emphasising the heritage and history of the club, while also looking to the future by installing 22-year-old back rower Magnus Bradbury as captain.
Scotland centre Mark Bennett joining from rivals Glasgow is a big plus, with the midfield being further strengthened by Bath’s Robbie Fruean, with the return to fitness of prop WP Nel is crucial. PREDICTION: Fourth Treviso Marty Banks – the man who kicked the Highlanders to a famous victory over the Lions this summer – is the Italians’ marquee signing. The versatile 27-year-old is joined by fellow Kiwis Nasi Manu and Whetu Douglas, while Aussie-born Azzurri Luke McLean and former Cardiff Blues lock Filo Paulo are notable departures to London Irish.
They look the stronger of the two Italian sides, but it’s all relative and you don’t see them making the Champions Cup cut in the new era of full meritocracy. PREDICTION: Seventh Southern Kings The team from Port Elizabeth gave a reasonable account of themselves in Super Rugby this year, however, they could really find it tough in the opening weeks, having to field teams in two tournaments.
They have a particularly tricky initiation, away to champions Scarlets this weekend and it could them a while to find their feet, but you would expect them to improve as they go along. PREDICTION: Fifth