ITM Cup For Beginners: Finals Review

This weekend will bring a close to a wonderful season of domestic rugby in New Zealand. All sides in this competition produced some fabulous running rugby with a high standard of skill from all players. And now all that's left to be decided is who will be promoted to the Premiership, and who will claim the Premiership crown

Championship Final:

Tasman Makos 26 v 25 Hawke's Bay, Friday 25th October 7.35am

Tasman:

1.Tim Perry, 2.Quentin MacDonald, 3. Sila Puafisi, 4.Alex Ainley, 5.Joe Wheeler, 6.Gary Redmond, 7.Shane Christie (captain), 8.Liam Squire, 9.Billy Guyton, 10.Marty Banks, 11.Mitchell Scott, 12.Tom Marshall, 13.Kieron Fonotia, 14.Bryce Heem, 15.James Lowe.
Reserves: 16.Francis Smith, 17.Siua Halanukonuka, 18.Tevita Cavubati, 19.Vernon Fredericks, 20.Mark Swanepoel, 21.Andy Symons, 22.Robbie Malneek.

Hawke's Bay:

1.Max Lahiff, 2.Ash Dixon, 3.Brendon Edmonds, 4.Michael Allardice, 5.Mark Abbott, 6.Mike Coman (c), 7.Brednon O'Connor, 8.Karl Lowe, 9.Alby Mathewson, 10.Ihaia West, 11.Penikolo Latu, 12.Andrew Horrell, 13.Richard Buckman, 14.Telusa Veainu, 15.Zac Guildford.

Reserves: 16.Ged Robinson, 17.Adrian Barone, 18.Trent Bosswell-Wakefield, 19.Tony Lamborn, 20.Chris Eaton, 21.Adam Bradey, 22.Michael Vuicakau.

Review

Tasman celebrate. Credit: Alden Williams

What a game. Everything anyone would want from a final. The skills levels were exceptional, and physicality was moan inducing and this was a very tight contest that went down to the wire.

Hawke's Bay started the brighter, forced a fantastic turnover, before Ihaia West put Zac Guildford over for a 3rd minute try. Tasman were stunned, and somehow pulled a try back to level matters, but Hawke's Bay were in control. A further penalty from West put them back ahead.

From there, Tasman started making inroads, with James Lowe coming to the fore. Two penalties from Banks put them 13-10 ahead with 10 minutes left before half time. James Lowe then sparked some magic, first with an initial break from his own half after a wonderful Shane Christie offload, and then after a quick throw from Quentin McDonald, Lowe was able to draw the last man and send Liam Squire over for his 7th try of the year.

Back came Hawke's Bay, and a period of concerted pressure on the Tasman line ended with referee Glen Jackson giving the magpies an attacking penalty on the Tasman 5m line. The exciting Ihaia West who was enjoying a fine game saw a massive numerical advantage and took the quick tap. The entire Tasman defense were caught unawares except Marty Banks, who intercepted on his own 5m line and ran in the try from 95 metres. Tasman lead at the break 23-10.

Hawke's Bay were determined to get back, and were camped in the Tasman half for the first 10 minutes of the second half without any joy. Ihaia West had missed 3 kicks at goal, and Hawke's Bay were now turning down kicking opportunities to go for a try that would put them back in the game. Eventually openside flanker Brendon O'Connor barged over to make a game of it at 23-17, before a Marty Banks put the scores out to 26-17 with a long range penalty.

Ihaia West finally nailed a kick with 5 minutes left, leading to a frantic final minutes. The game was end to end, with Hawke's Bay going close a few times before being penalised in Tasman's 22. Eventually, Brendon O'Connor turned over a ball in his own 22, setting Hawke's Bay up for one last attempt. A break from Trent Bosswell-Wakefield and some brilliant support work from Brendon O'Connor put sub scrumhalf Chris Eaton over in the corner.

Ihaia West, the 21 year old who has already missed 3 kicks, had a very difficult touchline conversion to win it with the last play of the game, but was unable to , giving Tasman a win that they deserved given their performances overall.

Preview

Tasman have been the undoubted best team in the Premiership, and Hawke's Bay have been the best of the rest, so it's no doubting that both these teams deserve to be here.

Tasman have named a strong team, with Super Rugby experience complimenting exciting prospects throughout the team. Tim Perry and Quentin MacDonald bring Super Rugby experience with the Blues to Sila Puafisi's 5 Tongan caps. Joe Wheeler and Alex Ainley are honest workhorses in the second row, while Liam Squire is Tasman's top try scorer from No.8, and his form, along with Shane Christie's has earned them their first Super Rugby contracts, 22 year old Squire with the Cheifs, and 28 year old Christie with the Highlanders. Liam Squire is the beautiful combination of beastly power with lethal pace, and a deceptive step, as shown by his try against Southland in the semi final. 

Marty Banks has had a remarkable rise so far. Photo: Photosport

Marty Banks has been the talk of the Tasman team, being a reliable goalkicker, and his form has also earned him his first Super Rugby contract with the Hurricanes. 24 year old Banks has had a roundabout way to get to this stage, going to play rugby in Russia, before impressing with Buller in the Heartland Championship and earning a spot in Tasman's extended squad for this year's ITM Cup. Banks has taken every opportunity with both hands to get here, and is a message to every potential youngster out there to keep working.

Tom Marshall continued his outstanding form with the Crusaders to guide Banks, while James Lowe has in been the star of the team in my opinion. Lowe's pace and vision has created countless opportunities, while Tasman undoubtedly play their offloading game with much higher pace and accuracy whenever Tom Marshall is on the field. If they are in the mood, Hawke's Bay will not be able to keep up.

The Magpies also have considerable Super experience, with Max Lahiff of the Rebels and Ash Dixon of the Hurricanes in the front row, and Brendon O'Connor and Karl Lowe in the back row providing much of their leadership. If things start to go Hawke's Bay's way. The talents of Alby Mathewson, Andrew Horrell Telusa Veainu and Zac Guildford will be itching to punish Tasman at any cost.

Ihaia West has been outstanding this year and will have many offers to play Super Rugby next year.
Photo: Graham Palmer

Ihaia West is one of Hawke's Bays best prospects, and arguably their player of the year this year. Recently called up to the Maori side, this gingerhaired wizard has created quite a buzz back in New Zealand with a dummy, a left-foot step, a startling burst of speed and a crowd pleasing dive, West set himself apart as a player capable of rare brilliance on the big stage. West's individual matchwinning try was a joy to behold in the semi final. New Zealanders are now asking "Who is this red-headed Maori kid? How good is he? And will he playing Super Rugby next year?" If you haven't heard of him yet, you will soon. 

His similarities with Quade Cooper don't just end with his dancing feet an speed, but like Cooper, his defense isn't good enough for coaches to have him defending on the front line, and he often finds himself defending from the fullback position where he can do damage on the counter attack.

The previous match between these two this season was a narrow victory for Tasman, 18-9. I think Tasman will be too strong again, but it'll be a much higher scoring game. Tasman by 10.

Premiership Final:

Wellington Lions 13 v  29 Canterbury, Saturday 26th October 7.35am

Wellington:

15. Charlie Ngatai, 14. Matt Proctor, 13. Tim Bateman, 12. Shaun Treeby, 11. Alapati Leiua, 10. Lima Sopoaga, 9. Frae Wilson, 8. Victor Vito (capt), 7. Ardie Savea, 6. Brad Shields, 5. Api Naikatini, 4. Mark Reddish, 3. Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, 2. Motu Matu'u, 1. John Schwalger.

Reserves: 16. Reggie Goodes, 17. Eric Sione, 18. Kaipati Gaualofa, 19. Faifili Levave, 20.Adam Hill, 21. Tomasi Palu, 22.Joe Hill

Canterbury:

1. Joe Moody, 2. Ben Funnell, 3. Nepo Laulala, 4. Joel Everson, 5. Luke Katene, 6. Luke Whitelock, 7. George Whitelock (c), 8. Nasi Manu, 9. Andy Ellis, 10. Tyler Bleyendaal, 11. Johnny McNicholl, 12. Ryan Crotty, 13. Adam Whitelock, 14. Patrick Osborne, 15. Tom Taylor.
Reserves: 16. Marcel Cummings-Toone, 17. Paea Fa'anunu, 18. Dominic Bird, 19. Jordan Taufua, 20. Willi Heinz, 21. Rob Thompson, 22. Colin Slade.

Review

A game that had so much billing and lots of potential was nearly ruined by the conditions. The wind meant that there wasn't as many offloads as one would have hoped as teams decided to play territorially, but there was still an impressive amount of ball handling skills and a limited number of mistakes. Hookers did extremely well not to have as many crooked throws as there could have been, and passes that left the hands going backwards often ended up a few metres in front.

Nevertheless, there was a hell of a game played, and Canterbury got off to a great start after Patrick Osborne punished a poor kick from Frae Wilson from a scrum to gift a try to Andy Ellis. Canterbury were unable to regather the resulting kickoff, and Lima Sopoaga got Wellington off the mark with a wonderfully struck penalty in the conditions.

Wellington started to get on top, and were pushing the line for minutes before Lima Sopoaga spotted a gap to put his side in front 10-7 at the break.

George Whitelock lifts Canterbury's 6th title in 6 years.
Source: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images AsiaPac

That was as good as it got for Wellington, who have lost 6 finals since their last win in 2000. Canterbury dominated the second half, playing a smart territory game, and controlling possession. George Whitelock had a fantastic game and kept Ardie Savea unusually quiet. Canterbury had two tries disallowed before Ryan Crotty went over in the corner after the entire Wellington team were attracted to a ruck on the opposite side of the pitch. Sopoaga was able to keep Wellington within 7 points with a penalty, but a fortutiously awared try in the last few minutes from George Whitelock ended the game as a contest with Canterbury winning their 6th in a row.

Preview

Canterbury have a huge test ahead of them if they want to win the Premiership title for the 6th time in a row on Saturday. Wellington have been by far the best team in the competition and don't look like they will be stopped. Wellington will feel they have a point to prove after only having 6 players in Steve Hansens touring squad, while Canterbury have double that number with 12 representatives.

Shaun Treeby has been outstanding in midfield for Wellington this year, and the pace and power of Leiua and Proctor will case Osborne and McNicholl all sorts of problems.

Motu Matu'u is a hard hitting hooker, and Toomaga-Allen will look to dominate the scrum against new All Black Joe Moody.

Ardie Savea is a star in the making and will look to prove that in the final.
Photo: CHRIS SKELTON/Fairfax NZ

New All Black squad member, Luke Whitelock will have a deadly backrow to contend with, all of whom will feel they should have been picked ahead of the 22 year old. The battle of the back rows will be key for this game, and George Whitelock will have to contend with Ardie Savea, who has the pace of a winger, power of a number 8 and the hands of a centre, but is deadly at the breakdown.

Tom Taylor and Ryan Crotty will give Canterbury some direction, while Andy Ellis will control the game from the base. Ellis has been in fine form, and is unfortunate that he is a couple of years older than the current New Zealand scrum halves, none of which have the control of a game that Ellis displays.

Tyler Bleyendaal is showing Canterbury and Crusader fans that their might be life after Dan Carter. Photo: radiosport

The player I've been most impressive with this season is outhalf Tyler Bleyendaal. He has the game management of a Ronan O'Gara, and the eye of a gap like Ian Madigan. This 22 year old is sure to get some opportunities for the Crusaders next year with Dan Carter's sabbatical and Colin Slade's injury history. Another outstanding talent to watch.

Canterbury may be coming into form at the business end of the season like usual, and while experience usually counts, I can't see anyone stopping the Wellington train that's been rolling over teams so far. One thing is for sure. This is one game of the weekend not to miss.

Currie Cup For Beginners: Final Preview

It's been eleven long weeks, and just as the Rugby Championship finishes, the showpiece of South African rugby is on this weekend. In a repeat of last year's final, Western Province will be defending their crown against the Natal Sharks. A host of returning Springboks should mean that this game has the potential to capture the imagination in the way that New Zealand and South Africa did in that memorable test match in Ellis Park three weeks ago.

Unlike last year, Western Province come into this game as heavy favourites, and will be hoping not to choke with that tag like the Sharks did. The tag of favourites is certainly justified having gone the season unbeaten, with the only blots being two draws against the Golden Lions and the Blue Bulls.

The two games between these sides were one score affairs, with late scores for the Sharks putting a shine to their performance in a dismal 25-19 loss to WP in Round 5 in Newlands, while it was a much tighter affair in the return game in Round 10, with Demetri Catrikilis late penalty giving Province a slight bit of breathing space in the final minutes. Round 10 marked the initial return of the international players, and the Sharks can improve again as further international stars like Patrick Lambie didn't feature as heavily.

Munster eyes will be on Gerhard van den Heever, playing his last game before moving. Photo RugbyRedefined

Irish eyes will be on Gerhard van den Heever, who will be playing his final game in South Africa before joining up with the Munster squad. He's had a good Currie Cup campaign, as demonstrated by his start in the final, but a return of only one try in the competition won't be setting pulses racing in the same manner as his youtube highlights.

Van den Heever is part of an exciting backline featuring the in form Gio Aplon, chasing a return to Springbok colours, and the talented Cheslin Kolbe, who was the star of the South African Under 20 side this year. Kolbe is one name to keep an eye on, as he will be featuring in debates on World XVs in a number of years time.

In the centres, Jean de Villiers moves out to outside centre to accomodate 21 year old Damian de Allende, who is enjoying his breakout season, and looks set to offer more in coming seasons in Super Rugby and beyond. His form is good enough to keep Juan de Jongh on the bench. Demetri Catrakilis is building on an impressive Super Rugby debut season for the Kings, and has managed to continue his form with Western Province, and will be partnering 23 year old halfback Louis Schreuder.

The pack has plenty of youthful experience, with Pat Cilliers and Steven Kitchoff both young props with South African caps, joined by 22 year old hooker Scarra Ntubeni, while returning Springbok Eben Etzebeth joins DeKock Steenkamp in a formidable second row partnership that will look to dominate the lineout and get through a mountain of dirty work. It will be left to Duane Vermuleun, in the form of his life, and Siya Kolisi to provide the ball carrying, while Deon Fourie will continue his fast growing reputation as one of South Africa's best poachers.

Strength in reinforcements will be provided by  Frans Malherbe, Brok Harris, Michael Rhodes, Schalk Burger, Nic Groom, Kurt Coleman and Juan de Jongh in what looks a strong, experienced and surprising youthful Western Province team. Schalk Burger is slowly making his comeback after injury hell for the former IRB Player of the Year in the last two years.

They might need it, as the Sharks have named close to their strongest possible team. Jean Deysel has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, so Willem Alberts replaces him. Not a bad replacement in the current South African blindside to bring in?

It'll be an all Springbok front row with Tendai Mtawarira, and the du Plessis brothers after Bismarck was somehow cleared of any suspension for stamping





22 year old Piet Marais and the impressive Pieter-Steph du Toit will be packing down in the second row, with Alberts, Daniels and Marcell Coetzee making up an impressive back row.

Patrick Lambie finally gets a start after being on the bench for so long for South Africa, and his fitness will be interesting to watch, he'll be partnered by the experience Charl McLeod while the youngster Cobus Reinach, who impressed many in Super Rugby is on the bench. Frans Steyn makes a return in the inside centre position, and will be partnered by Louis Ludik, while the Sharks back three has a mixture of pace and power with Odwa Ndungane, Lwazi Mvovo and SP Marias, the 24 year old from the Kings.

This game is clear to be a forward orientated battle, and will be an absorbing contest with two enormous packs battling it out. Sharks probably have edge in the scrum, but Eben Etzebeth is likely to rule the skies with his quick leap. The battle of the backrows will be fascinating with a mini Springbok audition between Marcel Coetzee and Siya Kolisi, in particular set to excite. A big performance from Catrakilis might interest Springbok selectors too, while out wide it'll be the skill and speed of Kolbe and Aplon against the raw power and pace of Mvovo and Ndungane. Sure to be an enthralling contest.

Western Province by 5.

Sink or Swim?

Let me tell you a story of two scrumhalves. They were born not 40 miles from each other, a year apart. Both started on their Junior World Cup teams. Both starred as their teams created huge shocks in beating the mighty baby Boks; and this season, both are first choice for their team, and started and starred in both Heineken Cup games. The only difference between them is that one was included in his country's squad for the November internationals, while the other wasn't.

Why am I telling you this? Well, it all started over a month ago, when Joe Schmidt originally announced his 41 man squad for a training camp. These series of tweets from Nigel Pearson (@SplottBoy) got me thinking about how young players are given more of a chance in Wales than in Ireland. This week's announcements of squads for the end of year tests emphasised this point with the two scrumhalves.

@BHHooker As a Welsh fan I'm pleased that Ireland are overlooking JJ Hanrahan & Luke McGrath.
— Nigel Pearson (@SplottBoy) September 17, 2013

@BHHooker Cheers - I think Wales/Gats wld have fast tracked players as talented as JJ & McGrath. 'Different strokes for different folks'.
— Nigel Pearson (@SplottBoy) September 17, 2013

And if you haven't guessed already, the scrumhalves are Rhodri Williams and Kieran Marmion.

Should players be thrown in the deep end?

Well, Ireland don't seem to expose young players to the international arena, a point highlighted by the fact that one of the uncapped players in the Irish squad named this week is 32 year old spring chicken, James Coughlan.

But it does seem to be how they do it in Wales, and a look at two current British and Irish Lions in their squad, George North and Leigh Halfpenny suggest this. Both capped at just 19 years of age, George North made a huge impact from the beginning, scoring two tries on his debut against South Africa, prompting Bryan Habana to say that Wales had found a real gem; "George looks good enough and mature enough to become one of the greats," said Habana. "You don't say that lightly, but he's laid a great foundation and played a lot better than any 18-year-old I've seen."

Tom Prydie is one of the examples of harming a players career by exposing them too soon. Photo Getty Images

While North and Halfpenny are clear success stories of throwing youngsters into the deep end, it hasn't always worked for the Welsh. Remember Tom Prydie? It's nothing to be embarrassed about if you don't. Having just turned 18, Tom Prydie made his senior Welsh debut against Italy in Wales's final game of the 2010 6 Nations. To give you a hint at how his career has gone since then, he made his debut for Wales Under 20s a full two years later. In total, he has 3 Wales senior caps, but at the grand old age of 21, he still has time (and lots of it).

Another approach is the new scheme that New Zealand are incorporating. In naming their squad for their Northern tour, Ardie Savea, and uncapped 20 year old with enormous potential, was named as a "non-playing apprentice". The idea is that Savea will get used to how things are done in the New Zealand camp, learn from their coaches and senior players, so that he feels comfortable in that environment before he's pushed too soon.

New Zealand are also very good at telling under-performing players to work on their game in specific ways. In 2010, 21 year old Aaron Cruden made his debut for New Zealand. Despite showcasing his incredible offloading skills and attacking flair, the New Zealand management decided that he didn't have enough game management and that he needed to work on his kicking. Sent to work on this in the ITM Cup, Cruden spent a season away from the national setup improving himself and came back a better player, and has established himself as arguably the second best outhalf in world rugby.

The same thing has happened with Piri Weepu, who needed to work on his speed and fitness, with Liam Messam, who needed to work on his work ethic and work in the tight, and that is why Victor Vito is in the form of his career with Wellington in the ITM Cup, because he's been told to work on his game. In New Zealand, they have the trust to know that when they are told to improve, they have time to work on their game and be able to come back and be selected for their national side.

A look at other nations will see that Italy dropped Andrea Masi in the deep end in 1999 as a 19 year old, but it was only 2008 when he really started to show what he was capable of. France are currently picking 19 year old Gael Fickou, but neglecting to choose the other 19 year old Christopher Tolofua, Scotland have recently selected exciting 20 year old Mark Bennett and 19 year old lock Jonny Gray.

England have had a mixed bag of it too, from Matthew Tait's mediocre career, to Owen Farrell being nominated for the IRB Player of the Year in 2012, aged just 21. The biggest case of where exposure of young players to worldwide fame is bad is Danny Cipriani. Tempted by all the vices that come with being famous, one too many bar fights, boozy nights and the glamour of a model girlfriend has proved to much for Cipriani, who has faded into obscurity, at just 25.

Another player on the verge of wasting huge talent is James O'Connor. Part of the trio of outrageous talented by troubled Australian stars of Quade Cooper and Kurtley Beale, O'Connor was only 18 when he made his Australia debut. 44 caps later, he's shown too many his obvious talent, and to others he's been involved in missed team meetings, bust ups and recently being too drunk to board a flight at an airport. At just 23, James O'Connor still has time to resurrect his career.

Gordon D'Arcy would never have become an Irish legend were it not his friends setting him straight. Photo: Inpho

Just ask Gordon D'Arcy. In May 1998, D'Arcy was a talented full-back just finished with the Senior Cup for the last time with Clongowes, and preparing for his Leaving Cert that June. Then, the then coach Warren Gatland surprised many by calling him up for the summer tour to South Africa. D'Arcy declined so he could do his Leaving Cert, and did get his first cap later that year against Romania. The world was at D'Arcy's feet, and he looked set for a full and long career as Ireland's saviour. He was even touted as a bigger prospect than Jonny Wilkinson and Brian O'Driscoll.

And then he nearly blew it. Just two years after declining the call up that would have meant he missed his Leaving Cert, the Irish centre was a mess. Twice he turned up at Leinster training sessions with enough evidence of the night before for club officials to want him sent packing. He had made the Ireland 1999 World Cup squad, but was nothing more than a spectator. From there, things only got worse. So much worse in fact, that he didn't make the 2003 World Cup squad. Worse, it wasn't a story. He had pretty much slipped off the monitor. Matt Williams was his coach at Leinster at the time "There were people who wanted to throw him out. I had to fight hard to get him a contract."

After he vanished off the international radar, it took until friends took him aside and gave him "the best advice I have ever had . . . sending me down the right path for a change".

The change was that he was named the 2004 6 Nations Player of the Tournament, became a British and Irish Lion, and the rest is history. He may have made his debut a few months before O'Driscoll, but that's why he's 50 caps behind him. In fact, when O'Driscoll was getting his 50th cap, D'Arcy earned his 10th in the same game.

So complete was the turnaround in D'Arcy's fortunes after being thrust into stardom overnight, that it was suggested in media circles that he could help another troubled star when the an early dramatic announcement on the international stage threatened to blow his career.

This troubled star debuted for his country at an early age. A game winning performance in a Six Nations game catapulted him to wider recognition, but his relationship with his high profile girlfriend started to raise questions about his attitude. Further drunken antics and fights with teammates were the beginning of his fall from grace. Since then, he's jumped from team to team, while his antics have continued, dashing any hopes of him fulfilling his promise.

I could have been talking about many players there, and if you had said Danny Cipriani, you would have been wrong.

In 2005, Gavin Henson had the world at his feet. Just like D'Arcy he wasn't in Wales's next World Cup squad, but managed to fight his way back for a Grand Slam. From there, his career effectively ended. If only he had D'Arcy's friends to have set him on the right path. Henson was the 2001 IRB Junior Player of The Year, and never got to fulfil his talent after being released into fame at too young an age. 

The Junior World Cup is a fantastic tournament for breeding young players, from Henson back in 2001, to more current superstars like Eben Etzebeth. Etzebeth was only 20 when he made his debut last year, but already he's become a world class second row. South Africa aren't afraid of letting their youngsters have a chance, as 2012 Junior Player of the Year Jan Serfontein can prove. Exactly one year after winning that award he had made is full debut for South Africa.

And what of one of the players Serfontein beat to win the award? JJ Hanrahan did what no Irish player has done before or since, and that was be nominated for the Young Player of the Year award when Serfontein won it. Nine Springboks caps later for Serfontein, and Hanrahan is only just breaking into the Munster squad, and an Ireland cap seems a few years away yet.

Ireland haven't always been this slow bringing players through, which D'Arcy and O'Driscoll can attest too. More recently, Luke Fitzgerald and Keith Earls have been fast tracked into the national set up, to varying degrees of success.

So which is better? Should you expose young talent to the harsh world of international rugby and let their talent speak for themselves and blossom like George North, or will the spotlight be too much, and lead to off field problems and a downward spiral?

Ultimately, it's all down to the mental strength of the player in question. But I think there are things that a coach can do. The current New Zealand model of easing a player into the setup, before allowing them a small number of substitute appearances in meaningless games, before gradually trusting them with starts and important games. If at any stage the player doesn't fulfil expectations, time spent with their province working on specific aspects of their game while knowing that another call up isn't far away seems to get the best out of each player. This also develops trust while building a squad, which is what Ireland needs for any competition that they hope to win.

Time will tell if the scrumhalves mentioned earlier will go fulfil their potential or go by the wayside.

What to expect from Ireland this November

At a glance, Ireland's opponents this November seem to represent a perfect opportunity for Joe Schmidt to announce his arrival as the saviour of Irish rugby. A deeper look shows that the three teams we face are all ahead of us in the World Rankings, with Samoa (7th), Australia (4th) and New Zealand (1st) ahead of our 8th position. While expectations might be high, a potential victory-less November isn't a million miles away from happening.

First and foremost, the strength of the opponents will be difficult to overcome. As mentioned, all three are ranked ahead of us, and overall, the IRB rankings aren't a bad gauge for the relevant positions of each national team.

Kahn Fotuali'i and Samoa are not to be underestimated this November. Photo: Getty Images

Samoa have named one of their strongest ever squads, and with Ireland being their only match against a tier one nation, they will be targeting this game. Their scrum will be the strongest Ireland face in November, with Census Johnston of Toulouse, Leicester's first choice Logovii  Mulipola and Clermont's Ti'i Paulo in the front row, backed up by Toulouse's Joe Tekori and one of Dan Leo (Perpignan) and Teofilo Paulo of Cardiff in the second row. In the back row, Jack Lam (Hurricanes) will be a handful at the breakdown, while Faifili Levave is showing promise in Super Rugby with the Hurricanes. Kahn Fotuali'i is still one of the best scrumhalves in the world, while Paul Williams, Alpati Leiua (Hurricanes), George Pisi, David Lemi and Tusi Pisi (Hurricanes) are capable of carving up any team. Not the easiest of starting games for Joe to ease into.

Our second opponents, Australia, have been in terrible form recently. Winning only two of their Rugby Championship games after the lost series to the Lions, things were close to a crisis. Ewen McKenzie took control of a chaotic team and it's taken a while for things to improve, but in the last two games, the Wallabies have shown glimpses of potential. This could well spell bad news for Ireland, who might be expecting Australia to roll over.

It took awhile, but new coach Ewen McKenzie was able to turn Wallaby fortunes around. A lesson perhaps for the incoming Irish coach? © Gallo Images

The current situation in Australian rugby also issues a warning for those with high expectations for new coach Joe Schmidt. They've shown that it'll take time for systems to be put in place, and playing three teams ranked higher than Ireland for his first three games doesn't seem like the perfect place to do that. Irish fans need to be patient with Schmidt, and while wins are possible against each side, three losses will not be a failure. Having said that, we'll need something to encourage us for the 6 Nations, and strong performances, fresh players, and attacking promise should hopefully be the order of the day.

With that in mind, and the huge debate created by this article, I've come up with matchday 23's for each game that try to give young players vital experience, and give fringe players get to stake a claim and regulars can get a chance to play into form, all while Ireland remain competitive.

UPDATED: 23/10/2013 Pre Squad Selection

As mentioned, Samoa will have the strongest scrum, and with Mike Ross potentially struggling at the moment, it seems the perfect time to test one of the backups. Declan Fitzpatrick has more experience than Moore, and has started the season scrummaging well, so he starts off the selection. Australia have the weakest scrum of the 3, and Moore deserves a chance, so I've put him in starting, while Mike Ross comes back in for New Zealand where we focus solely on a game similar to a World Cup final.

From there, Dave Kilcoyne is second choice loosehead (for now) and given last seasons improvements, I think he deserves a chance to show what he can do, while James Cronin or Jack McGrath come on early in the second half. Healy will be anxious to finally face Australia, and is clear choice for New Zealand. Whoever plays best from Cronin, McGrath and Kilcoyne is backup on the bench.

Given Richardt Strauss's unfortunate heart problems, Rory Best is a clear choice as hooker. I think his leadership will be key against Samoa, and I think he'll play all three games, with Sean Cronin the most likely backup, even though Damien Varley is perhaps the form choice.

Moving to the back row (as it'll explain the second row choices). Probably the biggest strength in depth that we have, even with a number of injuries. Currently, I would have Peter O'Mahony, Sean O'Brien and Jamie Heaslip as the starting backrow for New Zealand. with Chris Henry a close backup. Given how close he is, I would put him in for Australia, moving Sean O'Brien to 6 and keeping Jamie Heaslip at 8, with Peter O'Mahony on the bench. I think this will give Ireland the best approach at the breakdown for the visit of Australia and Michael Hooper. Peter O'Mahony will provide quite an impact from the bench too. Against Samoa, I think Iain Henderson should be unleashed, while Peter O'Mahony should be given some leadership responsibilties from no. 8. Chris Henry is my choice for openside, with Sean O'Brien ably covering from the bench.

Given Paul O'Connell's importance and return injury woes, I don't think he can play all three games. Thus resting him against Samoa will give more responsibility to Rory Best and Peter O'Mahony. Originally I had Devin Toner and Dan Tuohy here, with my intention being that it's a straight fight between them for a potential bench spot in the following games. But I think with Samoa's strength, it would be wise to go with a combination, so I promoted Mike McCarthy, with Tuohy dropping to the bench. If Donnacha Ryan's injury proves to be serious, the fight between himself and McCarthy to partner will be moot, so I'd expect O'Connell and McCarthy, with Tuohy as backup. Or Henderson as an outside chance.

Kieran Marmion is in line for his Irish debut. Photo: inpho photography

So far this season, there have been a number of strong performances from Irish scrumhalves, James Hart from Grenoble springs to mind, and Paul Marshall has done alright for Ulster, but Isaac Boss and especially Kieran Marmion and Conor Murray have been outstanding. Murray is a clear number one, and will face Australia and New Zealand. I would love Marmion to have some exposure, so he gets the starting spot against Samoa, and a bench place against Australia. Boss's form is rewarded with bench spots against Samoa and New Zealand, where his physicality will be needed.

Jonny Sexton is the clear outhalf, while there are finally some contenders for his backup. Ian Madigan was so far ahead of Jackson at the end of last season, and while Jackson has impressed this season, I don't think he's overtaken Madigan yet, and thus my choices for Samoa. 

Gordon D'Arcy's partnership with Brian O'Driscoll will be vital for Ireland against New Zealand. I think Luke Marshall isn't too far behind, and his ability to cover 10, 12 and 13 gets him the bench spot. He's pushing hard for a starting spot, so I'd give him the start against Australia, while O'Driscoll's ability to play all three games is unlikely, giving a chance to see Henshaw and Darren Cave in the thirteen jersey, with the experienced Gordon D'Arcy best placed to guide him through it.

I'm not expecting Niall Morris to make the squad, thus Rob Kearney will be the starting fullback in each game, which will give him some time to build into something close to his top form. Putting someone who can cover outside centre on the bench against Samoa will allow Henshaw to move into fullback at some stage. 

Wingers however I'm completely torn. The only thing I can decide on is Tommy Bowe is a certain starter, so I put him in for New Zealand and Australia, with the two wingers against Samoa in a straight fight for further inclusion. The inclusion of Henshaw on the bench for Australia is also tempting. 

I went for Fitzgerald against New Zealand as I think his defense is the strongest of all the candidates, while I think Trimble's kick chase work ethic is the best and I can foresee a number of Conor Murray boxkicks targeting the Wallabies second and third choice wingers. If Craig Gilroy is back fit in time, he would be my choice.

End of Year Tests: Irish Selections

The end of Round 2 of the Heineken Cup is a great time to gauge the status of the Irish squad, all the more so as the squad for the November internationals are named this week. Most of the regulars are a few weeks back, and there are some fresh blood who have stepped up in the early season.

Gilroy was the star of 2012's end of year Tests Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy / SPORTSFILE

Before I get to the selection, a mention for the provinces, who all won this weekend, and all denied their opposition losing bonus points. However, I think only Ulster can be happy with their performance and result. Leinster played poorly, and were lucky that a better opposition didn't punish them. While they would have been delighted to win and deny Castres a bonus point, they can't have been happy with how they lost control as Kockott scored from the scrum.

Munster and Connacht however will, or should, be even more frustrated. Both teams should have recorded bonus point wins, and both teams, while not playing good enough had many chances. Connacht especially inexplicably chose to take the points from 19-6, all the way to 25-6. If they are to earn the respect of Sunday Times "journalists", they should show that they have the ambition to get out of the group by getting bonus point victories against teams like Zebre. What was more frustrating was on the two occasions that they did go for the corner, tries were scored off first phase.

Anyway, there has been enough promise from Irish players that Joe Schmidt has a few interesting calls to make for his first squad;

At loosehead, I don't think Ireland have ever had as many quality options as before. Cian Healy is a certainty, while James Cronin and Jack McGrath have been impressive with their early season form. I missed the Ulster game at the weekend, but from all accounts, "Angry" Tom Court certainly put his hand up. Dave Kilcoyne is the current understudy to Healy, but I don't think he's started the season in good enough form.

Richardt Strauss's unfortunate health problems weakens Irish options, with presumably three hookers to be included, the big choice will be between Mike Sherry and Damien Varley. Ordinarily, I'm a Sherry fan, and I think that Varley concedes far too many penalties. In the last two weeks, Sherry's throwing has been very poor, while Varley has made positive impacts and performed better. Varley would be the form call.

Martin Moore looks set to ease Ireland's tighthead crisis ©INPHO/James Crombie

On form, Martin Moore looks set for his first call up. On form, he's been a distance ahead of Mike Ross this season. Joe Schmidt needs to try someone other than Ross for the Samoa game as Ross is still showing the affects of being flogged to death. Other options include Declan Fitpatrick, who is impressing as long as he holds together, Jamie Hagan, Stephen Archer, and Ronan Loughney, who scrummaged strongly against Zebre. Ross, Fitzpatrick and Moore are the likely three.

It will be fantastic to have Paul O'Connell back in the Irish fold, and Donnacha Ryan and Mike McCarthy will also be included. Devin Toner has arguably been the best performing Leinster second row, and Schmidt may make a familiar call here. I've been impressed whenever I see Dan Tuohy, and I'd include him in any squad.

The starting backrow will be Peter O'Mahony, Jamie Heaslip and Sean O'Brien, with Chris Henry supporting from the bench. Iain Henderson will be in the squad. Schmidt seemed to be a fan of Kevin McLaughlin when in charge of Leinster, and I think Sean Dougall's performance yesterday means he would be worth calling him up to look at in training. Robin Copeland's man of the match performance in Cardiff's shock defeat of Toulon could put him in the reckoning.

Conor Murray's Lions adventure has improved him as a player. Source: Limerick Leader

Dear British Lions, thank you for improving Conor Murray beyond recognition. Isaac Boss seems to be enjoying an Indian summer in his career, and Kieran Marmion is showing no signs of "second season syndrome". I fear he'll be overlooked for either the underperforming Eoin Reddan or Paul Marshall who has blown hot and cold this season. James Hart of Grenoble shouldn't be discounted, and while it's probably too early for him, he might sneak into a Wolfhounds squad soon.

Jonny Sexton has been one of the few Racing players that have played well, and that won't have gone unnoticed by Schmidt. Madigan's end of year form will be enough for him to stay as number 2, while Paddy Jackson has put the first few weeks of this yer behind him and put in some impressive displays. A mention for Gareth Steenson who is still producing for Exeter, and Ian Keatley is improving in Munster.

Dave McSharry's injury problems have come at the wrong time, as there is now at least 3 players ahead of him, with Luke Marshall and Stuart Olding fighting for probably one place beside Gordon D'Arcy.

If Brian O'Driscoll is fit, he starts. Everyone in rugby should know that. Robbie Henshaw's recent move to outside centre means he'll be next in line, and will also cover fullback, leaving Rob Kearney as the likely only 15 in the squad. Niall Morris is an outside bet.

Wing is the most interesting position. Tommy Bowe is the only certainty after Zebo's injury. Gilroy's absence recently probably rules him out, and both Andrew Trimble and Mike Allen have impressed in Ulster, Fergus McFadden is likely, while Luke Fitzgerald looked very bright when coming on against Castres. Munster fans will tell you Earls and Johne Murphy have been in great form. Pick 4 from those names and I guarantee you they'd be different from mine.

Likely squad
Healy, Kilcoyne, McGrath
Best, Cronin, Sherry
Ross, Fitzpatrick, Moore
O'Connell, Ryan, McCarthy, Toner
Henderson, O'Mahony, O'Brien, Henry, Heaslip
Murray, Boss, Reddan,
Sexton, Madigan, Jackson
Marshall, D'Arcy
O'Driscoll, Henshaw
Bowe, Earls, McFadden, Fitgerald
Kearney

My squad
Healy, Cronin, McGrath.
Best, Cronin, Varley,
Ross, Fitzpatrick, Moore
O'Connell, Ryan, Tuohy, Toner, Henderson
O'Mahony, Henry, O'Brien, Heaslip, Dougall
Murray, Boss, Marmion
Sexton, Madigan
Marshall, D'Arcy
O'Driscoll, Henshaw
Bowe, Trimble, Fitzgerald,
Kearney, Morris

Currie Cup For Beginners: Update

Playoff Lineup

Promotion/ Relegation


19 October 2013 Griquas v Pumas Hoffe Park Stadium, Kimberley
26 October 2013 Pumas v Griquas Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit

Semi-Finals

19 October 2013 Western Province v Golden Lions Newlands Stadium, Cape Town
19 October 2013 Natal Sharks v Free State Cheetahs Growthpoint Kings Park, Durban

Story So Far

Cheslin Kolbe impressed for Western Province

It's been an intriguing Currie Cup, with many tight games, with all teams apart from the Griquas with the potential to beat each other. Western Province somehow remained unbeaten, recording 2 draws but only one try bonus point. This was all the more impressive given that it was achieved without their Springboks, with the likes of Gio Aplon and Cheslin Kolbe stepping up out wide, and Deon Fourie impressing after moving from hooker to openside flanker. Nizam Carr has also been one of the standout players for them, and if it weren't for the returning Duane Vermuelen, Carr would be one of the standouts for the Stormers in next years Super Rugby. Damian Allende, a 21 year old inside centre has also impressed in the absence of Jean de Villiers, and it will be interesting to view his progress in the coming years.

Natal Sharks started badly, giving the Griquas their only win in week one, but managed to come back and secure 2nd place. Their returning stars will give them the edge against the Cheetahs in the semi finals. The Sharks managed to get losing bonus points in all 3 of their losses, and were a little more adventurous than Western Province, managing 2 try bonus points. 20 year old flyhalf Fred Zeilinga finished the regular season as top points scorer. Zeilinga represented the Sharks at every level from Under 13, but hasn't represented South Africa at any level, being overlooked for Tony Jantjies and Handre Pollard of the Bulls.

The Free State Cheetahs, continued their Super Rugby form the Cheetahs finishing 3rd. Raymond Rhule finished top try scorer with 7 in 10 games, while Sarel Pretorius and Boom Prinsloo impressed.

The Golden Lions produced a mixed season, with the highlight being the destruction of the Blue Bulls 23-62 in "fortress" Loftus Versfeld. The Lions scored the most tries in the competition, and had the most try bonus points with 5 with only 4 wins. Elton Jantjies revelled in the less structured approach of the Lions after returning from the Stormers, while Derek Minnie impressed and looks set to make the Lions competitive in next year's Super Rugby.

The Blue Bulls, even without their Springboks, were terrible. The form of their outhalves didn't help, with both Tony Jantjies and Handre Pollard in inconsistent form, and coach Pine Pienaar's decisions to rotate them throughout the season.

Players Signed For Super Rugby

Bulls:
William Small Smith (Blue Bulls) Outside Centre

Lions:
Ricky Schroeder (Boland Caviliers) Scrumhalf

ITM Cup For Beginners: Update

It's nearly semi final time in the ITM Cup, and I haven't been following it as much as I'd have liked.

The semi final line up is as follows;

Championship:

Saturday 19th October 4:35am
Tasman (1) v (4) Southland

Sunday 20th October 2:35am
Otago (2) v (3) Hawke's Bay

Premiership:

Friday 18th October 7:35 am
Wellington (1) v (4) Counties Manakau
Result: 44-10
Wellington cruise into the final with the back row of Shields, Savea and Vito particularly impressing. It's unlikely that they will be stopped.

Saturday 19th October 2:05am
Canterbury (2) v (3) Auckland

Story So Far

There have been 4 standout teams in the ITM Cup this season. Wellington have been by a distance the best team in the competition, with Canterbury and Auckland close by on their tails in the Premiership.

Tasman have also been very impressive after cantering to top seeds in the Championship.

Ardie Savea scores v Auckland. Source: Hagen Hopkins/Getty Images AsiaPac

Wellington have swept all before them with Ardie Savea standing out in an impressive back row, where the performances of Victor Vito will also have BNZ selectors interested.  Such was Wellington's dominance that they started with 4 try bonus point wins in the first 4 games, including beating Counties 19-55 in the first week. They ended up winning their next 4 games, which also included victories against Canterbury and a bonus point win over Auckland, the other two semi finalists. The only blot on their mark was a loss to Hawke's Bay in the last week having already guaranteed top spot.

Canterbury and Auckland also started well, not losing until the 6th and 5th weeks respectively, with Canterbury's only loss to Wellington by 19 points to 25. Auckland were a little more sloppy, with losses to Waikato and Otago also on their copybook.

Waikato and Taranaki had average seasons, neither one threatening either relegation or the playoffs, while Bay of Plenty struggled.

Tasman were very impressive in their march to the Championship top spot, with only losses to Canterbury and a bad loss to North Harbour their only blots, although not playing Auckland or Wellington certainly helped.

Otago were next best, and while they had mixed season, their 4 losses all came against teams who ended up in the semi finals. They finished the season strongly with two bonus point wins, but will be looking to make up for their one point loss to Hawke's Bay in the semi finals.

Finishing one point behind them was Hawke's Bay, and in what looks like a very tight semi final, both teams had similar seasons with 4 losses each. A loss to Bay of Plenty early on was a set back, but victories over Otago, Southland and Wellington set up Hawke's Bay up for a push for promotion.

Southland won only 3 of their 9 games, and scraped into the semi finals at the expense of Manwatu, but shouldn't be expecting much from their semi final sojourn.

Northland, despite the magic of Rene Ranger and Rupeni Caucaunibuca, couldn't muster up a semi final challenge, while one win and a draw was all North Harbour could manage.

Ranfurly Shield

Premiership semi finalists Counties Manakau had a great season after being promoted last year. Not only did they manage to finish 4th, they also finished the season with the Ranfurly Shield after it changed hands several times.

Counties Manakau claim the Ranfurly Shield. Getty Images

Waikato started the season as holders, and managed to successfully fend off North Harbour before losing the following week to Otago. It was the first time in 56 years for Otago to hold the Ranfurly Shield, which made it all the more devastating they lost it the following week in that one point loss to Hawke's Bay. Hawke's Bay couldn't do much better, losing the following defense to Counties Manakau, where the shield stayed after 3 successful defenses to Taranaki, Waikato and Southland.

Standout Players

Wellington - Ardie Savea, Shaun Treeby

As mentioned, Savea looked a class apart in this competition, showing a complete range of skills, from impressive steals, strong running and great finishing collecting up with 4 tries. Treeby has also scored 4 tries, and was magnificent against Counties in the semi final displaying strong defensive highlighted by the great rip which set up his try. Other strong Wellington performers include Victor Vito, who must have earned his way back into BNZ selector's thoughts for the end of year tour.

Canterbury - Jordan Taufua, Luke Whitelock, Mildford Keresoma

While Canterbury are a highly drilled unit with each player performing highly, it was hard to pick one player as a standout. No team scored more tries than Canterbury, highlighted by the fact that Mildford Keresoma leads the try scoring charts with 8 after 9 games. At 21, he looks to have a big future in the game. Patrick Osborne and Adam Whitelock both finished with 5 tries, Rob Thompson with 4, while Ryan Crotty and Luke Whitelock bagged 3 each. With 4 different outhalves tried in Canterbury just highlights the sense of a team stepping up and no one individual standing out. Jordan Taufua is one to watch out for next season in Super Rugby though, with much expected of the 21 year old, he performed well when given the chance this competition.

Auckland - Simon Hickey, Lolagi Visinia

Simon Hickey impressed for Auckland Source: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images AsiaPac

After watching a lot of the JWC, Simon Hickey had a mixed competition. After starting extremely brightly against Australia, once Ireland started to come back, Hickey faded into obscurity and never really recovered. Until now. Given the reigns in Auckland, Hickey's steered them into third place, and has bagged over 100 points in the competition. From the New Zealand Herald (who aren't known to praise lightly) "Hickey has had some bright spots this year. A sideline conversion to win their Super City derby against Counties Manukau in week four stands out, while his kicking and running have impressed."

Still only 19, Hickey will have another year at Under 20s next year. A frightening thought.

Visinia is himself only 20, which means his tally of 6 tries is very impressive. Another young backthree who will look to get some gametime for the Blues next season.

Counties Manukau - Sherwin Stowers

He may be without a team for next season's Super Rugby and will turn instead to 7s, but Sherwin Stowers was one of the names that New Zealand commentators praised highly for his performances. A player with huge X factor, the crowd audibly got excited whenever he got the ball, and more often than not he made things happen. It seems incredible that he couldn't find a team for Super Rugby next year, at 27, he should only be approaching his peak. A far cry from 2011, when he turned down both the Chiefs and the Highlanders to sign for the Blues.

Tasman - James Lowe

Like Stowers, James Lowe is someone who makes things happen, and was the standout player in the Tasman side. A number of this side has been subsequently signed for Super Rugby, including Lowe, who will be looking to replace Lelia Masaga for the Chiefs. Scorer of 6 tries himself, Lowe also has the ability to break the line and create things for others.

Otago -Hayden Parker,  Fa'asiu Fuatai

Hayden Parker finished the regular season as top points scorer with 161, and generally looked a tidy player. With Slade leaving the Highlanders, the 22 year old will be looking to challenge Lima Sopoaga for the starting spot. Parker displayed maturity beyond his years in this years competition, and players similar to Beauden Barrett.

Southland - Cardiff Vaega

Admitedly, I don't think I caught one Southland game, but I had to include Vaega for this article, from stuff.co.nzstuff.co.nz:

Southland midfielder Cardiff Vaega has claimed the final spot in the Hurricanes squad for 2014.
Vaega signed with the franchise this week, after Wellington Lions lock Mark Reddish also recommitted to the team for 2014.
The two signings round off the Hurricanes' roster for next season, with its wider training group members still to be added.
Vaega, 22, has been a standout for Southland during the provincial season particularly through his midfield pairing with Willis Halaholo.
Hurricanes' coaches Mark Hammett and Alama Ieremia felt Vaega had been at the forefront of that pairing, and would be a good fit for the Hurricanes in 2014.
Assistant and backs coach, Ieremia, said Vaega was extremely physical, made accurate defensive decisions, and had been one of the standout midfielders during the 2013 ITM Cup.
"Cardiff offers size and a physical presence we were looking for in our midfield. He's been a consistent performer for the Southland team and we're excited to help him develop his game through the Hurricanes environment.
"As a team man, he will fit well into our culture and we welcome him to the next challenge of his career."
Vaega said he couldn't be more excited to pick up the last spot in the Hurricanes squad, and put his selection down to the confidence he had developed in Southland.
"I've got a bit more confidence this year which has enabled me to express myself better on the field and show people what I have to offer.
"I grew up watching and admiring a number of players in the Hurricanes and can't wait to have a chance to pull the jersey on myself. I'm looking forward to representing the team as best I can on and off the field."

Players signed for Super Rugby teams from ITM Cup.

Blues:
Patrick Tuipulotu (Auckland) Second Row

Chiefs:

James Lowe starred for Tasman and was rewarded with a move to the Chiefs. Source: Anthony Au-Yeung/Getty Images AsiaPac

Matt Symons (Canterbury) Second Row
Liam Squire (Tasman) No. 8
James Lowe (Tasman) Wing

Crusaders
Mitchell Drummon (Canterbury) Scrumhalf

Highlanders:
Tom Franklin (Otago) Second Row
Gareth Evans (Otago) Flanker
Shane Christie (Tasman) Flanker
Kurt Baker (Taranaki) Full Back

Hurricanes:
Mark Abbot (Hawke's Bay) Second Row
Marty Banks (Tasman) Fly Half
Cardiff Vaega (Southland) Centre

Rebels:
Telusa Veainu (Canterbury) Wing