Heinz Schenk

I’ve got news for people who are optimistic about the simpler, more streamlined format of Super Rugby this year: it’s not going to make the tournament more competitive.

And the fact that South Africa has two sides less also won’t make much of a difference. The structural weaknesses in terms of depth was a problem even before the Cheetahs and Kings were cut.

Don’t expect any miracles. The Kiwi sides will once again dominate given their inherent class.

Defending champions, the Crusaders, have kept all the players who led them to the title, but I have a sneaky suspicion the Hurricanes are due.

That’s essentially due to John Plumtree being their new head coach, a man with the necessary balance to get the best out of an exciting but mercurial team.

South Africa will experience above average returns without actually getting anywhere.

Locally, the Lions remain the best bet but they are now in the phase of their cycle where it becomes difficult to build on their near misses two years in a row.

Robbie Fleck’s Stormers will lack the composure to win knockout games while the Bulls will be thrilling under John Mitchell but hampered by inexperience.

Personally, I’m going for the well-balanced Sharks to carry the flag.

The Aussies will struggle once again.