Introduction

The following is a team-by-team preview for the 2020 Super Rugby season. Betting resources and futures betting tips are also provided.

This season is the final year that we will see the loathed three-conference format. It is also the last campaign that will feature the Sunwolves, who were cruelly informed of their axing from the competition midway through last season.

With 2020 being a post-World Cup year, most teams have incurred a larger than average net loss of experience during the off-season. This increases the uncertainty over how this season will pan out because there are so many unknowns over the new, young crop of players.

It’s worth noting that New Zealand Rugby is continuing with its player rest program from last season, which will put restrictions on the playing time of key All Blacks, particularly in the first three rounds.

Team-By-Team Previews

Australian Conference

Brumbies

• Futures Odds: 36 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 2.5 (BetEasy) to win the Australian conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 8.9% (equates to fair odds of 11.24)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 62.4% (equates to fair odds of 1.6)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 0.2% (equates to fair odds of 500)
• 2018 Season: Finished 10th overall (3rd in the Australian conference) with a 7-0-9 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 3rd (4th highest points tally) overall (1st in the Australian conference) with a 10-0-6 regular season record (7-0-1 at home, 3-0-5 away). Lost in the semi-finals to the Jaguares.
• 2019 Stats: 6th ranked for points scored, with 65 tries. In terms of points conceded the Brumbies had the 6th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Dan McKellar
• Captain(s): Allan Alaalatoa
• Key Departures: Josh Mann-Rea (retired), Rory Arnold (Toulouse), Sam Carter (Ulster), David Pocock (Panasonic Wild Knights), Wharenui Hawera, Christian Lealiifano (NTT Communications Shining Arcs), Henry Speight (Reds)
• Key Arrivals: Cadeyrn Neville (Toyota Industries Shuttles)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Allan Alaalatoa, Jahrome Brown, Tom Cusack, Murray Douglas, Blake Enever, Folau Fainga’a, Nick Frost, Leslie Leulua’iali’i-Makin, Harrison Lloyd, Lachlan Lonergan, Lachlan McCaffrey, Connal McInerney, Will Miller, Cadeyrn Neville, Tom Ross, Pete Samu, Scott Sio, James Slipper, Darcy Swain, Rob Valetini, Shambeckler Vui
  Backs: Tom Banks, Issak Fines, Mack Hansen, Len Ikitau, Solomone Kata, Bayley Kuenzle, Tevita Kuridrani, Noah Lolesio, Ryan Lonergan, Andy Muirhead, Reesjan Pasitoa, Guy Porter, Joe Powell, Toni Pulu, Irae Simone, Tom Wright
• International Capped Players: 11
• Pre-season Results: Brumbies 45-14 Rebels
• Pundit Conference Predictions 1st¹, 1st²
• Causes for Optimism: By far the best team in Australia in 2019, with the best tight five in the country. Finished last year’s regular season on a 8-1 run. Went 8-1 at home in 2019, with their sole home defeat coming in Round 1. Their offence has been trending in the right direction, going from the 17th best in 2017, to the 12th best in 2018, to the 6th best in 2019. They are now multi-dimensional in attack but still boast a strong set-piece and can use the rolling maul to good try-scoring effect.
• Causes for Concern: Were no match for the Jaguares in the semi-finals last year. Much of their strong run at the end of the season coincided with an easy schedule. Failed to beat a team that finished in the top four last year. Experienced locks Rory Arnold and Sam Carter have departed, along with David Pocock, Henry Speight and Christian Lealiifano.
• Summary: Led by a strong forward pack, I expect the Brumbies will make the playoffs.

 

Rebels

• Futures Odds: 36 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 2.75 (BetEasy) to win the Australian conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 0.5% (equates to fair odds of 200)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 6.6% (equates to fair odds of 15.15)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 9.6% (equates to fair odds of 10.42)
• 2018 Season: Finished 9th overall (2nd in the Australian conference) with a 7-0-9 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 11th overall (2nd in the Australian conference) with a 7-0-9 regular season record (4-0-4 at home, 3-0-5 away).
• 2019 Stats: 9th ranked for points scored, with 56 tries. In terms of points conceded the Rebels had the 13th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: David Wessels
• Captain(s): Dane Haylett-Petty
• Key Departures: Tetera Faulkner (Waratahs), Adam Coleman (London Irish), Will Genia (Kintetsu Liners), Quade Cooper (Kintetsu Liners),Jack Maddocks (Waratahs)
• Key Arrivals: Ruan Smith (Reds), Michael Wells (Waratahs), Frank Lomani (Drua)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Jermaine Ainsley, Angus Cottrell, Cabous Eloff, Mees Erasmus, Pone Fa’amausili, Matt Gibbon, Esei Ha’angana, Richard Hardwick, Ross Haylett-Petty, Trevor Hosea, Luke Jones, Josh Kemeny, Boyd Killingworth, Gideon Koegelenberg, Rob Leota, Declan Moore, Isi Naisarani, Cameron Orr, Matt Philip, Anaru Rangi, Fereti Sa’aga, Ruan Smith, Jordan Uelese, Michael Wells, Brad Wilkin
  Backs: Andrew Deegan, Tom English, Dane Haylett-Petty, Reece Hodge, Andrew Kellaway, Marika Koroibete, Frank Lomani, Ryan Louwrens, Campbell Magnay, Bill Meakes, Harry Potter, Matt Toomua, Semisi Tupou, James Tuttle
• International Capped Players: 11 (10 Aus, 1 Fiji)
• Pre-season Results: Reds 57-5 Rebels, Brumbies 45-14 Rebels
• Pundit Conference Predictions 2nd¹, 4th²
• Causes for Optimism: Boast some good talent in the backs.
• Causes for Concern: Their tight five was an area of weakness last season and that’s a bad area to be deficient in. After a 5-2 start to the campaign the Rebels slumped to finish the season on a 1-5 run. In the final two games they conceded 125 points whilst only scoring 8 points. Failed to make any improvements from 2018 to 2019, finishing with the same 7-9 record. The Rebels had the lowest tackles made percentage in the competition last season.
• Summary: After back to back years of just missing out of the playoffs, the pressure will be on David Wessels to break that duck this season. The playoffs aren’t out of reach, but the Rebels will have to avoid another end of season fade which derailed their last two campaigns.

 

Reds

• Futures Odds: 91 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 6 (BetEasy) to win the Australian conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 0.9% (equates to fair odds of 111.11)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 13.1% (equates to fair odds of 7.63)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 4.2% (equates to fair odds of 23.81)
• 2018 Season: Finished 13th overall (4th in the Australian conference) with a 6-0-10 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 14th overall (4th in the Australian conference) with a 6-0-10 regular season record (4-0-4 at home, 2-0-6 away).
• 2019 Stats: 10th ranked for points scored, with 50 tries. In terms of points conceded the Reds had the 11th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Brad Thorn
• Captain(s): Liam Wright
• Key Departures: Ruan Smith (Rebels), Scott Higginbotham (Bordeaux), Samu Kerevi (Suntory Sungoliath)
• Key Arrivals: James O’Connor (Sale Sharks), Henry Speight (Brumbies)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Angus Blyth, Sean Farrell, David Feao, Feao Fotuaika, Harry Hockings, Harry Hoopert, Tom Kibble, Alex Mafi, Fraser McReight, Josh Nasser, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Izack Rodda, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Angus Scott-Young, JP Smith, Tuaina Taii Tualima, Taniela Tupou, Seru Uru, Harry Wilson, Michael Wood, Liam Wright
  Backs: Jock Campbell, Filipo Daugunu, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Carter Gordon, Jack Hardy, Bryce Hegarty, Isaac Lucas, Scott Malolua, Tate McDermott, James O’Connor, Hunter Paisami, Jordan Petaia, Henry Speight, Moses Sorovi, Hamish Stewart
• International Capped Players: 10 (9 Aus, 1 Samoa)
• Pre-season Results: Reds 57-5 Rebels, Reds 28-19 Waratahs
• Pundit Conference Predictions 4th¹, 2nd²
• Causes for Optimism: Have some high quality assistant coaches. Signed Wallabies James O’Connor and Henry Speight during the off-season. Centre Jordan Petaia returns after missing most of last season with a foot injury. Have shown promising pre-season form.
• Causes for Concern: Finished the 2019 regular season on a 1-5 run. Key players Samu Kerevi and Scott Higginbotham have departed. The jury is still out on the effectiveness of head coach Brad Thorn.
• Summary: Plenty of upside potential in this youthful side but they have a huge hole to fill after the departure of Samu Kerevi. After back to back 6-10 seasons, this year provides a good opportunity to make the next step given the high levels of player turnover at other clubs following the World Cup.

 

Sunwolves

• Futures Odds: 501 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 151 (BetEasy) to win the Australian conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: <0.1% (equates to fair odds of >1000.00)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 0.1% (equates to fair odds of 1000)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 65.9% (equates to fair odds of 1.52)
• 2018 Season: Finished 15th overall (5th in the Australian conference) with a 3-0-13 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 15th overall (5th in the Australian conference) with a 2-0-14 regular season record (0-0-8 at home, 2-0-6 away).
• 2019 Stats: 15th ranked for points scored, with 34 tries. In terms of points conceded the Sunwolves had the 15th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Naoya Okubo (replaces Tony Brown)
• Captain(s): TBA
• Key Departures: Grant Hattingh (Kobelco Steelers), Dan Pryor (Munakata Sanix Blues), Amanaki Mafi (NTT Communications Shining Arcs), Jamie Booth (Hurricanes), Fumiaki Tanaka (Canon Eagles), Hayden Parker (Kobelco Steelers), Rene Ranger (Colorado Raptors), Jason Emery (Munakata Sanix Blues)
• Key Arrivals: Chris Eves (Hurricanes), Conraad van Vuuren (Bulls), Leni Apisai (Blues), Rudy Paige (Clermont), Garth April (NTT Communications Shining Arcs), JJ Engelbrecht (Stormers), Ben Te’o (Toulon)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Jarred Adams, Chang Ho Ahn, Leni Apisai, Sione Asi, Jaba Bregvadze, Kaku Bunkei, Justin Downey, Chris Eves, Mamoru Harada, Ryuga Hashimoto, Onehunga Havili, Ben Hyne, Mitch Jacobson, Mateaki Kafatolu, Shunsuke Nunomaki, Brendon O’Connor, Tom Rowe, Jake Schatz, Michael Stolberg, Corey Thomas, Tevita Tupou, Conraad van Vuuren, Hencus van Wyk, Kotaro Yatabe
  Backs: Garth April, James Dargaville, JJ Engelbrecht, Siosaia Fifita, Alex Horan, Burua Inoke, Jordan Jackson-Hope, Takahiro Kimura, Hiroki Kumoyama, Keisuke Moriya, Rudy Paige, Naoto Saito, Ben Te’o
• International Capped Players: 7 (2 Japan, 2 RSA, 1 Georgia, 1 Tonga, 1 England)
• Pre-season Results: Sunwolves 81-28 Challenge Barbarians
• Pundit Conference Predictions 5th¹, 5th²
• Causes for Optimism: Absolutely no burden of expectation. Boast strong home support when playing in Tokyo and Japan’s strong performance in the 2019 World Cup might boost spectator numbers. Have signed a handful of experienced international players during the off-season.
• Causes for Concern: Have incurred a max exodus of players during the off-season, with around 30 new players in the squad this campaign. Sharpshooter Hayden Parker has departed, along with Shota Horie, Lappies Labuschagne and Dan Pryor. Went downhill after their axing from the tournament was announced last year. This will be their final season. Finished 2019 with a 2-14 record, compared to 3-13 the year before, and failed to win a single home game. Finished 2019 on a nine-game losing streak. Play some of their home games in Singapore, which doesn’t have nearly the same atmosphere as Tokyo. Scored just 18 points per game last season, which was the worst in the competition by a 3-point margin. Conceded 37 points per game last season, which was the worst in the competition by a whopping 7-point margin. Conceded 85 tries last season, which was 21 more than the next worst team. The well regarded head coach Tony Brown has departed. Have a poorly-timed bye in Round 2.
• Summary: The Sunwolves are my pick for the wooden spoon.

 

Waratahs

• Futures Odds: 81 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 5 (BetEasy) to win the Australian conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 1.5% (equates to fair odds of 66.67)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 17.7% (equates to fair odds of 5.65)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 2.5% (equates to fair odds of 40)
• 2018 Season: Finished 3rd (5th highest points tally) overall (1st in the Australian conference) with a 9-1-6 regular season record. Lost in the semi-finals to the Lions.
• 2019 Season: Finished 12th overall (3rd in the Australian conference) with a 6-0-10 regular season record (3-0-5 at home, 3-0-5 away).
• 2019 Stats: 11th ranked for points scored, with 46 tries. In terms of points conceded the Waratahs had the 9th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Rob Penney (replaces Daryl Gibson)
• Captain(s): Rob Simmons
• Key Departures: Sekope Kepu (London Irish), Nick Phipps (London Irish), Bernard Foley (Kubota Spears), Adam Ashley-Cooper (released), Curtis Rona (London Irish), Tolu Latu (Stade Français)
• Key Arrivals: Tetera Faulkner (Rebels), Jack Maddocks (Rebels), Tepai Moeroa (Parramatta Eels)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Robbie Abel, Angus Bell, Darcy Breen, Joe Cotton, Jack Dempsey, Max Douglas, Tetera Faulkner, Damien Fitzpatrick, Charlie Gamble, Ned Hanigan, Will Harris, Jed Holloway, Michael Hooper, Tom Horton, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Ryan McCauley, Rory O’Connor, Tom Robertson, Rob Simmons, Hugh Sinclair, Tom Staniforth, Lachlan Swinton, Pat Tafa, Chris Talakai, Tiaan Tauakipulu, Carlo Tizzano, Andrew Tuala, Cody Walker, Jeremy Williams
  Backs: Kurtley Beale, Cam Clark, Ben Donaldson, Lalakai Foketi, Jake Gordon, Will Harrison, Karmichael Hunt, Jack Maddocks, Mack Mason, Michael McDonald, Tepai Moeroa, Mark Nawaqanitawase, Alex Newsome, James Ramm, Triston Reilly, Henry Robertson, Mitch Short, Jack Walsh, Joey Walton, Siosifa Lasila
• International Capped Players: 11
• Injuries & Suspensions: Mack Mason injured his groin in pre-season and may miss Round 1.
• Pre-season Results: Waratahs 40-21 Highlanders
• Pundit Conference Predictions 3rd¹, 3rd²
• Causes for Optimism: Can make a fresh start following Daryl Gibson’s resignation following an unsuccessful coaching spell. Michael Hooper, Kurtley Beale and Rob Simmons have stayed on, which is important given the exodus of other experienced players.
• Causes for Concern: Israel Folau and Taqele Naiyaravoro scored almost half the Waratahs tries in 2018 and their absence showed in 2019. Have lost a chunk of experience, with Bernard Foley, Sekope Kepu, Nick Phipps, Adam Ashley-Cooper and Curtis Rona all departing during the off-season. The Waratahs’ tight five were found wanting last season and since then Kepu has departed. With the closure of Allianz Stadium, the Waratahs will again be playing at four different ‘home’ venues this season. Have only made the playoffs once in the last four years.
• Summary: The side has been less than the sum of its parts in recent seasons. Perhaps new coach Rob Penney can turn that around.

 

New Zealand Conference

Blues

• Futures Odds: 15 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 17 (BetEasy) to win the New Zealand conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 1.3% (equates to fair odds of 76.92)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 1.8% (equates to fair odds of 55.56)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 4% (equates to fair odds of 25)
• 2018 Season: Finished 14th overall (5th in the New Zealand conference) with a 4-0-12 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 13th overall (5th in the New Zealand conference) with a 5-1-10 regular season record (5-1-2 at home, 0-0-8 away).
• 2019 Stats: 12th ranked for points scored, with 45 tries. In terms of points conceded the Blues had the 5th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Leon MacDonald
• Captain(s): Patrick Tuipulotu
• Key Departures: Augustine Pulu (Hino Red Dolphins), Ma’a Nonu (San Diego Legion), Sonny Bill Williams (Toronto Wolfpack), Melani Nanai (Worcester Warriors), Michael Collins (Highlanders)
• Key Arrivals: Beauden Barrett (Hurricanes), Joe Marchant (Harlequins)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Aaron Carroll, Gerard Cowley-Tuioti, Kurt Eklund, Blake Gibson, Josh Goodhue, Alex Hodgman, Akira Ioane, Tony Lamborn, Ezekiel Lindenmuth, Sione Mafileo, Ray Niuia, Dalton Papalii, James Parsons, Jacob Pierce, Marcel Renata, Waimana Riedlinger-Kapa, Tom Robinson, Hoskins Sotutu, James Tucker, Karl Tu’inukuafe, Patrick Tuipulotu, Ofa Tu’ungafasi
  Backs: Beauden Barrett, Otere Black, Finlay Christie, Caleb Clarke, Matt Duffie, TJ Faiane, Jack Heighton, Jordan Hyland, Rieko Ioane, Joe Marchant, Emoni Narawa, Sam Nock, Jared Page, Stephen Perofeta, Harry Plummer, Jonathan Ruru, Mark Telea, Tanielu Tele’a
• International Capped Players: 10 (7 NZ, 1 Samoa, 1 USA, 1 England)
• Pre-season Results: Chiefs 19-26 Blues, Blues 29-28 Hurricanes
• Pundit Conference Predictions 3rd¹, 4th²
• Causes for Optimism: Should have promising fly-half Stephen Perofeta back after he missed last season due to injury. Have signed All Blacks fly-half Beauden Barrett from the Hurricanes. Have had relatively little turnover in players given it’s a post-World Cup season. Had the 5th best defensive record last season. Boast some excellent individual talent.
• Causes for Concern: Consistently New Zealand’s worst team, having failed to make the finals in the last eight seasons while every other Kiwi side made the playoffs in each of the last four years. Ended 2019 on a 1-1-7 run. Haven’t won an away game against a domestic opponent since 2013. Enter the season on a 10-game losing streak away from home. Have taken a hit in the midfield with the departures of Sonny Bill Williams and Ma’a Nonu. Marquee signing Beauden Barrett is on sabbatical and won’t join the team until mid-April. Despite this not being a World Cup year, New Zealand Rugby is continuing with rest protocols for top players this year: no more than six weeks played in succession and a 180-minute cap on game time over the first three rounds.
• Summary: The Blues managed to enjoy a lot of territory and possession last season. Their downfall was translating that territory and possession into sufficient points. If they can be sharper in front of the try line this side can break its playoff drought.

 

Chiefs

• Futures Odds: 4.25 (bet365) to win the title and 3.25 (BetEasy) to win the New Zealand conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 7.4% (equates to fair odds of 13.51)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 12.2% (equates to fair odds of 8.2)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 0.4% (equates to fair odds of 250)
• 2018 Season: Finished 5th (3rd highest points tally) overall (3rd in the New Zealand conference) with a 11-0-5 regular season record. Lost in the quarter-finals to the Hurricanes.
• 2019 Season: Finished 7th overall (3rd in the New Zealand conference) with a 7-2-7 regular season record (4-1-3 at home, 3-1-4 away). Lost in the quarter-finals to the Jaguares.
• 2019 Stats: 5th ranked for points scored, with 63 tries. In terms of points conceded the Chiefs had the 12th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Warren Gatland (replaces Colin Cooper)
• Captain(s): Sam Cane
• Key Departures: Brodie Retallick (Kobelco Steelers), Taleni Seu (Toyota Industries Shuttles), Jack Debreczeni (Hino Red Dolphins)
• Key Arrivals: Aaron Cruden (Montpellier)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Michael Allardice, Tyler Ardron, Lachlan Boshier, Mitchell Brown, Sam Cane, Robb Cobb, Ryan Coxon, Ross Geldenhuys, Nathan Harris, Luke Jacobson, Mitchell Karpik, Nepo Laulala, Donald Maka, Laghlan McWhannell, Atu Moli, Dylan Nel, Ollie Norris, Reuben O’Neill, Aidan Ross, Bradley Slater, Pita Gus Sowakula, Angus Ta’avao, Samisoni Taukei’aho, James Thompson, Adam Thomson, Tupou Vaa’i
  Backs: Solomon Alaimalo, Leroy Carter, Aaron Cruden, Tiaan Falcon, Orbyn Leger, Anton Lienert-Brown, Tumua Manu, Damian McKenzie, Sam McNicol, Lisati Milo-Harris, Kini Naholo, Etene Nanai-Seturo, Alex Nankivell, Shaun Stevenson, Bailyn Sullivan, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Kaleb Trask, Quinn Tupaea, Sean Wainui, Brad Weber
• International Capped Players: 12 (12 NZ, 1 Canada)
• Pre-season Results: Chiefs 19-26 Blues
• Pundit Conference Predictions 2nd¹, 1st²
• Causes for Optimism: Made the playoffs for the 8th straight season despite starting the year 0-1-4 and losing star fullback Damian McKenzie to a season-ending injury. McKenzie, who was the 2018 player of the year, returns from injury, while Sam Cane is back to full health after missing most of last season with injury and Aaron Cruden has re-joined the club after playing in France. The highly experienced Warren Gatland takes over as the new head coach. They have incurred relatively little turnover of players given this is a post-World Cup season. Have as many players with All Blacks caps in the side as the Crusaders.
• Causes for Concern: World-class All Blacks lock Brodie Retallick has departed. Despite this not being a World Cup year, New Zealand Rugby is continuing with rest protocols for top players this year: no more than six weeks played in succession and a 180-minute cap on game time over the first three rounds.
• Summary: The Chiefs are well placed to at least make the playoffs this season and possibly secure the top seed in the conference.

 

Crusaders

• Futures Odds: 3.25 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 1.85 (BetEasy) to win the New Zealand conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 38.2% (equates to fair odds of 2.62)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 66.4% (equates to fair odds of 1.51)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: <0.1% (equates to fair odds of >1000.00)
• 2018 Season: Finished 1st overall (1st in the New Zealand conference) with a 14-0-2 regular season record. Super Rugby Champions.
• 2019 Season: Finished 1st overall (1st in the New Zealand conference) with a 11-3-2 regular season record (7-1-0 at home, 4-2-2 away). Super Rugby Champions.
• 2019 Stats: 1st ranked for points scored, with 73 tries. In terms of points conceded the Crusaders had the 1st best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Scott Robertson
• Captain(s): Scott Barrett
• Key Departures: Owen Franks (Northampton Saints), Ben Funnell (Ricoh Black Rams), Sam Whitelock (Panasonic Wild Knights), Jordan Taufua (Leicester Tigers), Matt Todd (Toshiba Brave Lupus), Kieran Read (Toyota Verblitz), Mitchell Hunt (Highlanders), Tim Bateman (Toshiba Brave Lupus), Ryan Crotty (to Japan Kubota Spears)
• Key Arrivals:
• Squad:
  Forwards: Michael Alaalatoa, Harry Allan, Scott Barrett, Ethan Blackadder, George Bower, Tom Christie, Whetu Douglas, Mitchell Dunshea, Cullen Grace, Billy Harmon, Sione Havili, Oliver Jager, Andrew Makalio, Brodie McAlister, Joe Moody, Luke Romano, Ethan Roots, Tom Sanders, Quinten Strange, Codie Taylor, Matt Todd, Isi Tu’ungafasi
  Backs: George Bridge, Fergus Burke, Brett Cameron, Mitchell Drummond, Ere Enari, Braydon Ennor, Leicester Fainga’anuku, Inga Finau, Jack Goodhue, Bryn Hall, David Havili, Will Jordan, Manasa Mataele, Dallas McLeod, Richie Mo’unga, Fetuli Paea, Sevu Reece
• International Capped Players: 14 (12 NZ, 1 Samoa, 1 Tonga)
• Injuries & Suspensions: Lock Quinten Strange is out for up to five weeks with a broken hand.
• Pre-season Results: Crusaders 40-19 Hurricanes, Crusaders 41-7 Highlanders
• Pundit Conference Predictions 1st¹, 2nd²
• Causes for Optimism: Have won three consecutive titles. Have boasted the best defensive record for three straight seasons and the best offensive record for the last two seasons. Boast a perfect home playoff record of 24-0. Have retained Scott Robertson as the head coach after he missed out on the All Blacks job.
• Causes for Concern: Their 2019 final squad featured 19 of the 23 players from 2018, but they have since incurred a lot of departures during the off-season. Among those who have departed is Kieran Read, who had been in the side since 2007. Ryan Crotty, Owen Franks and flanker Jordan Taufua have also departed, having each played over 100 games for the Crusaders. Captain Sam Whitelock is off on sabbatical this year. Despite this not being a World Cup year, New Zealand Rugby is continuing with rest protocols for top players this year: no more than six weeks played in succession and a 180-minute cap on game time over the first three rounds.
• Summary: Given the exodus of All Blacks from the squad I’m amazed to see the Crusaders at such short odds to win the title. I’m not prepared to lay them at this stage, however, given the schedule doesn’t see them play overseas (excluding a trip to Japan) until Round 12.

 

Highlanders

• Futures Odds: 15 (bet365) to win the title and 13 (BetEasy) to win the New Zealand conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 3.3% (equates to fair odds of 30.3)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 4% (equates to fair odds of 25)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 1.2% (equates to fair odds of 83.33)
• 2018 Season: Finished 6th overall (4th in the New Zealand conference) with a 10-0-6 regular season record. Lost in the quarter-finals to the Waratahs.
• 2019 Season: Finished 8th overall (4th in the New Zealand conference) with a 6-3-7 regular season record (4-3-1 at home, 2-0-6 away). Lost in the quarter-finals to the Crusaders.
• 2019 Stats: 2nd ranked for points scored, with 60 tries. In terms of points conceded the Highlanders had the 10th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Aaron Mauger
• Captain(s): James Lentjes
• Key Departures: Tyrel Lomax (Hurricanes), Tom Franklin (Kobelco Steelers), Jackson Hemopo (Mitsubishi DynaBoars), Luke Whitelock (Pau), Elliot Dixon (Ricoh Black Rams), Liam Squire (NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes), Marty Banks (NTT DoCoMo Red Hurricanes), Richard Buckman (Kobelco Steelers), Matt Faddes (Ulster), Tevita Li (Suntory Sungoliath), Waisake Naholo (London Irish), Ben Smith (France Pau)
• Key Arrivals: Mitchell Hunt (Crusaders), Michael Collins (Blues), Scott Gregory (Northland, NZ Sevens)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Teariki Ben-Nicholas, Liam Coltman, Ethan de Groot, Josh Dickson, Ash Dixon, Shannon Frizell, Jackson Hemopo, Dillon Hunt, Josh Iosefa-Scott, Ayden Johnstone, Zane Kapeli, James Lentjes, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Marino Mikaele-Tu’u, Sione Misiloi, Jesse Parete, Pari Pari Parkinson, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, Jeff Thwaites, Siate Tokolahi, Nathan Vella, Jack Whetton
  Backs: Michael Collins, Tima Fainga’anuku, Folau Fakatava, Bryn Gatland, Scott Gregory, Kayne Hammington, Mitchell Hunt, Josh Ioane, Chris Kuridrani, Josh McKay, Tevita Nabura, Jona Nareki, Ngane Punivai, Aaron Smith, Rob Thompson, Sio Tomkinson, Thomas Umaga-Jensen, Teihorangi Walden
• International Capped Players: 6 (5 NZ + 1 Tonga)
• Pre-season Results: Waratahs 40-21 Highlanders, Crusaders 41-7 Highlanders
• Pundit Conference Predictions 5th¹, 5th²
• Causes for Optimism: Have made the finals in the last six straight seasons. Had the second best offensive record last year. Promising winger Tevita Nabura returns after missing last season with an ACL tear. Having brought in some up and coming NZ talent, including Sevens player Scott Gregory. Have brought in Tony Brown as attack coach.
• Causes for Concern: Regressed from 2018 to 2019 after the departure of Lima Sopoaga, and have now lost another 15 players including All Blacks Ben Smith, Waisake Naholo, Luke Whitelock and Liam Squire. The Highlanders have regressed defensively over the last few years and had only the 10th best defensive record last year, compared to the 2nd best in 2016. Arguably only made the playoffs in 2019 because their Round 5 match against the Crusaders was cancelled. Have a poorly-timed bye in Round 1. Have only one All Black in the squad with 10+ caps (Aaron Smith). Were comfortably beaten by the Waratahs and Crusaders in pre-season. Despite this not being a World Cup year, New Zealand Rugby is continuing with rest protocols for top players this year: no more than six weeks played in succession and a 180-minute cap on game time over the first three rounds.
• Summary: With such a massive exodus of experience, this will be a year of rebuilding. I don’t expect them to make the playoffs and the wooden spoon in the New Zealand conference wouldn’t surprise.

 

Hurricanes

• Futures Odds: 8 (bet365) to win the title and 7.5 (BetEasy) to win the New Zealand conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 10.4% (equates to fair odds of 9.62)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 15.5% (equates to fair odds of 6.45)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 0.2% (equates to fair odds of 500)
• 2018 Season: Finished 4th (2nd highest points tally) overall (2nd in the New Zealand conference) with a 11-0-5 regular season record. Lost in the semi-finals to the Crusaders.
• 2019 Season: Finished 4th (2nd highest points tally) overall (2nd in the New Zealand conference) with a 12-1-3 regular season record (6-0-2 at home, 6-1-1 away). Lost in the semi-finals to the Crusaders.
• 2019 Stats: 3rd ranked for points scored, with 60 tries. In terms of points conceded the Hurricanes had the 7th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Jason Holland (replaces John Plumtree)
• Captain(s): Dane Coles & TJ Perenara
• Key Departures: Chris Eves (Sunwolves), Jeffery Toomaga-Allen (Wasps), Beauden Barrett (Blues), Matt Proctor (Northampton Saints), Nehe Milner-Skudder (Toulon)
• Key Arrivals: Tyrel Lomax (Highlanders), Kobus van Wyk (Sharks)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Fraser Armstrong, Asafo Aumua, James Blackwell, Dane Coles, Gareth Evans, Alex Fidow, Vaea Fifita, Devan Flanders, Du’Plessis Kirifi, Kane Le’aupepe, Tyrel Lomax, Ben May, Liam Mitchell, Xavier Numia, Reed Prinsep, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Ricky Riccitelli, Ardie Savea, Scott Scrafton, Murphy Taramai, Isaia Walker-Leawere
  Backs: Vince Aso, Jordie Barrett, Jamie Booth, Jackson Garden-Bachop, Wes Goosen, Ben Lam, Ngani Laumape, Jonah Lowe, James Marshall, TJ Perenara, Billy Proctor, Fletcher Smith, Jonathan Taumateine, Chase Tiatia, Danny Toala, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Kobus van Wyk
• International Capped Players: 10 (9 NZ, 1 Tonga)
• Injuries & Suspensions: Ardie Savea will miss the start (and possibly a fair chunk) of the season due to a knee injury.
• Pre-season Results: Crusaders 40-19 Hurricanes, Blues 29-28 Hurricanes
• Pundit Conference Predictions 4th¹, 3rd²
• Causes for Optimism: Finished second (for points scored) in the overall standings in the last two seasons and have made the playoffs in the last five seasons. Have been excellent travellers, going 6-1-1 away from home last season.
• Causes for Concern: All Blacks fly-half Beauden Barrett has left to join the Blues. Head coach John Plumtree has departed to join the All Blacks coaching setup. Despite this not being a World Cup year, New Zealand Rugby is continuing with rest protocols for top players this year: no more than six weeks played in succession and a 180-minute cap on game time over the first three rounds.
• Summary: Given the expected improvement in the Chiefs, the Hurricanes will regress a bit this season and finish 3rd or 4th in the New Zealand conference. They are still a good chance of making the playoffs, however.

 

South African Conference

Bulls

• Futures Odds: 67 (bet365) to win the title and 10 (BetEasy) to win the South African conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 5.3% (equates to fair odds of 18.87)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 19.8% (equates to fair odds of 5.05)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 0.6% (equates to fair odds of 166.67)
• 2018 Season: Finished 12th overall (5th in the Africa 1 conference) with a 6-0-10 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 5th overall (2nd in the Africa 1 conference) with a 8-2-6 regular season record (5-0-3 at home, 3-2-3 away). Lost in the quarter-finals to the Hurricanes.
• 2019 Stats: 7th ranked for points scored, with 42 tries. In terms of points conceded the Bulls had the 8th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Pote Human
• Captain(s): Lood de Jager
• Key Departures: Conraad van Vuuren (Sunwolves), Schalk Brits (retired), Lood de Jager (Sale Sharks), Jason Jenkins (Toyota Verblitz), RG Snyman (Honda Heat), Jannes Kirsten (Exeter Chiefs), Paul Schoeman (Honda Heat), Roelof Smit (Lions), Hanro Liebenberg (Leicester Tigers), Duane Vermeulen (Kubota Spears), André Warner (Lions), Handré Pollard (Montpellier), Jesse Kriel (Canon Eagles)
• Key Arrivals: Juandré Kruger (Toulon), Josh Strauss (Sale Sharks), Morné Steyn (Stade Français)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Tim Agaba, Corniel Els, Andries Ferreira, Lizo Gqoboka, Johan Grobbelaar, Ian Groenewald, Wiehahn Herbst, Juandré Kruger, Simphiwe Matanzima, Abongile Nonkontwana, Ruan Nortjé, Trevor Nyakane, Ryno Pieterse, Jeandré Rudolph, Gerhard Steenkamp, Ruan Steenkamp, Josh Strauss, Muller Uys, Dayan van der Westhuizen, Louis van der Westhuizen, Marco van Staden, Jaco Visagie, Wian Vosloo
  Backs: Warrick Gelant, Cornal Hendricks, Marco Jansen van Vuren, Johnny Kôtze, Richard Kriel, Manie Libbok, Franco Naudé, Burger Odendaal, Embrose Papier, Marnus Potgieter, Divan Rossouw, Dylan Sage, Chris Smith, Rosko Specman, Morné Steyn, Jade Stighling, Nafi Tuitavake, Ivan van Zyl
• International Capped Players: 12 (10 RSA 1 Scotland, 1 Tonga)
• Pre-season Results: Bulls 33-22 Lions, Bulls 40-35 Lions
• Pundit Conference Predictions 5th¹, 3rd²
• Causes for Optimism: Finally showed signs of turning things around by making their first finals appearance in six years last season. Finished 2nd in the South African conference in 2019, compared to 5th in 2018. Finished 5th in the overall standings in 2019, compared to 12th in 2018 and 15th in 2017. Have countered the departure of some key experience by bringing in veterans Juandré Kruger, Josh Strauss and Morné Steyn.
• Causes for Concern: Have only won one game outside South Africa since 2016. A large number of key players departed during the off-season including skipper Handre Pollard, Schalk Brits, Duane Vermeulen and Jesse Kriel.
• Summary: With so much player turnover this season it’s hard to know how the Bulls’ season will play out. One key is whether the 35-year old Morné Steyn can fill the void left by Handré Pollard.

 

Jaguares

• Futures Odds: 13 (bet365) to win the title and 2.15 (BetEasy) to win the South African conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 17.7% (equates to fair odds of 5.65)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 60.6% (equates to fair odds of 1.65)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 0.1% (equates to fair odds of 1000)
• 2018 Season: Finished 7th overall (2nd in the Africa 2 conference) with a 9-0-7 regular season record. Lost in the quarter-finals to the Lions.
• 2019 Season: Finished 2nd (3rd highest points tally) overall (1st in the Africa 2 conference) with a 11-0-5 regular season record (6-0-2 at home, 5-0-3 away). Lost in the final to the Crusaders.
• 2019 Stats: 4th ranked for points scored, with 60 tries. In terms of points conceded the Jaguares had the 2nd best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Gonzalo Quesada
• Captain(s): Jerónimo de la Fuente
• Key Departures: Santiago García Botta (Harlequins), Enrique Pieretto (Exeter Chiefs), Tomás Lavanini (Leicester Tigers), Pablo Matera (Stade Français), Martín Landajo (Harlequins), Santiago González Iglesias (Munakata Sanix Blues), Ramiro Moyano (Toulon)
• Key Arrivals: Joel Sclavi (Agen)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Matías Alemanno, Rodrigo Bruni, Ignacio Calas, Agustín Creevy, Javier Díaz, Francisco Gorrissen, Santiago Grondona, Marcos Kremer, Tomás Lezana, Santiago Medrano, Santiago Montagner, Julián Montoya, Javier Ortega Desio, Lucas Paulos, Juan Bautista Pedemonte, Guido Petti, Joel Sclavi, Santiago Socino, Lucio Sordoni, Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro, Mayco Vivas, Juan Pablo Zeiss
  Backs: Tomás Albornoz, Gonzalo Bertranou, Emiliano Boffelli, Sebastián Cancelliere, Mateo Carreras, Santiago Carreras, Juan Pablo Castro, Santiago Chocobares, Tomás Cubelli, Jerónimo de la Fuente, Bautista Delguy, Joaquín Díaz Bonilla, Felipe Ezcurra, Juan Cruz Mallía, Lucas Mensa, Domingo Miotti, Matías Moroni, Matías Orlando, Joaquín Tuculet
• International Capped Players: 30
• Injuries & Suspensions: Matias Alemanno is out for around three weeks and Jeronimo de la Fuente is out for around two weeks.
• Pre-season Results: Jaguares 66-3 Georgia, Jaguares 66-7 Georgia
• Pundit Conference Predictions 1st¹, 1st²
• Causes for Optimism: Haven’t had quite the same exodus of players as other teams. Boast a squad packed with international experience. Finished the 2019 regular season on a 9-1 run. Have a perfect 6-0 record on Australian soil. Had their best ever season last season in Gonzalo Quesada’s first year in charge.
• Causes for Concern: As always, have the worst travel schedule in the competition. Pablo Matera has departed.
• Summary: With the Crusaders losing a number of key players, this season provides a good opportunity for the Jaguares to win their maiden title. To do this they arguably must top the overall standings to secure home ground advantage.

 

Lions

• Futures Odds: 31 (Sportsbet) to win the title and 5.5 (BetEasy) to win the South African conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 1.3% (equates to fair odds of 76.92)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 6.3% (equates to fair odds of 15.87)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 3.6% (equates to fair odds of 27.78)
• 2018 Season: Finished 2nd (4th highest points tally) overall (1st in the Africa 2 conference) with a 9-0-7 regular season record. Lost in the final to the Crusaders.
• 2019 Season: Finished 9th overall (4th in the Africa 2 conference) with a 8-0-8 regular season record (5-0-3 at home, 3-0-5 away).
• 2019 Stats: 8th ranked for points scored, with 53 tries. In terms of points conceded the Lions had the 14th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Ivan van Rooyen (replaces Swys de Bruin)
• Captain(s): Elton Jantjies
• Key Departures: Jacobie Adriaanse (retired), Robbie Coetzee (released), Malcolm Marx (NTT Communications Shining Arcs), Stephan Lewies (Harlequins), Kwagga Smith (Yamaha Júbilo), James Venter (Sharks), Warren Whiteley (retired), Nic Groom (Edinburgh), Lionel Mapoe (Stade Français), Harold Vorster (Panasonic Wild Knights), Ruan Combrinck (Stade Français), Sylvian Mahuza (NTT Communications Shining Arcs)
• Key Arrivals: Jannie du Plessis (Montpellier), Roelof Smit (Bulls), André Warner (Bulls), Dan Kriel (Stormers)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Cyle Brink, Jan-Henning Campher, Hacjivah Dayimani, Jannie du Plessis, Rhyno Herbst, Marko Janse van Rensburg, Pieter Jansen, Johannes Jonker, Len Massyn, Nathan McBeth, Reinhard Nothnagel, Marvin Orie, Asenathi Ntlabakanye, Carlü Sadie, Marnus Schoeman, Ruben Schoeman, Sti Sithole, Roelof Smit, Dylan Smith, Vincent Tshituka, Wilhelm van der Sluys, Frans van Wyk, Ruan Vermaak
  Backs: Andries Coetzee, Ross Cronjé, Tyrone Green, Elton Jantjies, Dan Kriel, Gianni Lombard, Duncan Matthews, James Mollentze, Stean Pienaar, Mannie Rass, Shaun Reynolds, Wandisile Simelane, Courtnall Skosan, Dillon Smit, Tiaan Swanepoel, Jamba Ulengo, Louritz van der Schyff, André Warner, Francke Horn
• International Capped Players: 7
• Injuries & Suspensions: Aphiwe Dyantyi is facing a lengthy suspension for doping charges. Cyle Brink will likely miss the majority of the season after he ruptured his Achilles tendon in pre-season. Francke Horn has a grade-two ankle injury, which could see him miss the first 2-4 rounds.
• Pre-season Results: Bulls 33-22 Lions, Bulls 40-35 Lions
• Pundit Conference Predictions 4th¹, 5th²
• Causes for Optimism: Will be playing with a lower burden of expectation this year.
• Causes for Concern: Regressed last year following the departure of key player Franco Mostert, along with Jaco Kriel. This year they will have to do without Malcolm Marx, who is one of the best hookers in the world, along with Kwagga Smith. Slipped from 1st in the South African conference to 4th in the space of a year. Missed out on the playoffs in 2019 after making three consecutive finals. Defence has worsened over the last two years, slipping from conceding 19 points per game in 2017 (2nd best) to 27 in 2018 (7th best) and 30 in 2019 (14th best). Only won 2 of their last 8 games against South African opponents, having previously won 19 domestic games in a row. 2018 World Rugby Breakthrough Player of the Year Aphiwe Dyantyi is currently suspended for serious doping charges.
• Summary:

 

Sharks

• Futures Odds: 51 (bet365) to win the title and 8 (BetEasy) to win the South African conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 1.4% (equates to fair odds of 71.43)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 5.6% (equates to fair odds of 17.86)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 4.4% (equates to fair odds of 22.73)
• 2018 Season: Finished 8th overall (3rd in the Africa 2 conference) with a 7-1-8 regular season record. Lost in the quarter-finals to the Crusaders.
• 2019 Season: Finished 6th overall (3rd in the Africa 2 conference) with a 7-1-8 regular season record (3-0-5 at home, 4-1-3 away). Lost in the quarterfinals to the Brumbies.
• 2019 Stats: 14th ranked for points scored, with 40 tries. In terms of points conceded the Sharks had the 3rd best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: Sean Everitt (replaces Robert du Preez)
• Captain(s): Lukhanyo Am
• Key Departures: Tendai Mtawarira (Old Glory DC), Coenie Oosthuizen (Sale Sharks), Akker van der Merwe (Sale Sharks), Ruan Botha (London Irish), Jean-Luc du Preez (Sale Sharks), Dan du Preez (Sale Sharks), Philip van der Walt (Newcastle Falcons), Robert du Preez (Sale Sharks), Kobus van Wyk (Hurricanes), Henco Venter (Cheetahs), Madosh Tambwe (Lions)
• Key Arrivals: Ox Nché (Cheetahs), Sikhumbuzo Notshe (Stormers)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Hyron Andrews, Craig Burden, Phepsi Buthelezi, Thomas du Toit, Andrew Evans, Celimpilo Gumede, Michael Kumbirai, Mzamo Majola, Fez Mbatha, Khutha Mchunu, John-Hubert Meyer, Tera Mtembu, Ox Nché, Sikhumbuzo Notshe, Tyler Paul, Dylan Richardson, Le Roux Roets, Evan Roos, Juan Schoeman, JJ van der Mescht, Emile van Heerden, Ruben van Heerden, Kerron van Vuuren, Henco Venter, James Venter
  Backs: Taakhir Abrahams, Lukhanyo Am, Curwin Bosch, Jodan Chait, Boeta Chamberlain, Caleb Dingaan, André Esterhuizen, DJ Falconer, Aphelele Fassi, Murray Koster, Marius Louw, Makazole Mapimpi, Lwazi Mvovo, S’busiso Nkosi, Sanele Nohamba, JP Pietersen, Louis Schreuder, Madosh Tambwe, Jeremy Ward, Grant Williams, Cameron Wright
• International Capped Players: 10
• Pre-season Results: Sharks 45-21 Russia, Stormers 21-19 Sharks
• Pundit Conference Predictions 3rd¹, 4th²
• Causes for Optimism: Made the playoffs in the last four straight seasons. Might be able to find a new gear under incoming head coach Sean Everitt.
• Causes for Concern: Have a poor 3-12 record in playoffs rugby. Have been far too mercurial in recent seasons. Brilliant one week, awful the next. Have a poorly-timed bye in Round 18.
• Summary: Like most teams the Sharks have incurred a net loss of talent and experience. I don’t expect them to challenge for the conference title but given the overhaul of so many other squads this year, a playoff spot isn’t out of the question.

 

Stormers

• Futures Odds: 26 (bet365) to win the title and 3.75 (BetEasy) to win the South African conference
• Rugby Vision Title Winning Probability: 1.8% (equates to fair odds of 55.56)
• Rugby Vision Conference Winning Probability: 7.6% (equates to fair odds of 13.16)
• Rugby Vision Wooden Spoon Probability: 3.1% (equates to fair odds of 32.26)
• 2018 Season: Finished 11th overall (4th in the Africa 1 conference) with a 6-0-10 regular season record.
• 2019 Season: Finished 10th overall (5th in the Africa 1 conference) with a 7-1-8 regular season record (5-1-2 at home, 2-0-6 away).
• 2019 Stats: 13th ranked for points scored, with 46 tries. In terms of points conceded the Stormers had the 4th best defence in the competition.
• Head Coach: John Dobson (replaces Robbie Fleck)
• Captain(s): Siya Kolisi
• Key Departures: Corné Fourie (Gloucester), Eben Etzebeth (Toulon), Sikhumbuzo Notshe (Sharks), Kobus van Dyk (Canon Eagles), Joshua Stander (Suntory Sungoliath), Damian de Allende (Panasonic Wild Knights), JJ Engelbrecht (Sunwolves), Dan Kriel (Lions), SP Marais (to Japan Canon Eagles), EW Viljoen (Leicester Tigers)
• Key Arrivals: Jamie Roberts (Bath), Leolin Zas (Sharks)
• Squad:
  Forwards: Juarno Augustus, Kwenzo Blose, Jaco Coetzee, Ben-Jason Dixon, Johan du Toit, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Schalk Erasmus, Neethling Fouché, Dan Jooste, Steven Kitshoff, Siya Kolisi, Wilco Louw, Leon Lyons, Frans Malherbe, Bongi Mbonambi, David Meihuizen, Salmaan Moerat, Scarra Ntubeni, Sazi Sandi, JD Schickerling, Chad Solomon, Ernst van Rhyn, Chris van Zyl, Cobus Wiese, Nama Xaba
  Backs: Paul de Wet, Dan du Plessis, Jean-Luc du Plessis, Michal Haznar, Herschel Jantjies, David Kriel, Dillyn Leyds, Tristan Leyds, Godlen Masimla, Matt More, Ruhan Nel, Sihle Njezula, Sergeal Petersen, Rikus Pretorius, Jamie Roberts, Seabelo Senatla, Cornel Smit, Edwill van der Merwe, Damian Willemse, Leolin Zas
• International Capped Players: 11 (10 RSA + 1 Wales)
• Pre-season Results: Stormers 3-13 Southern Kings, Stormers 21-19 Sharks
• Pundit Conference Predictions 2nd¹, 2nd²
• Causes for Optimism: Led by World Cup-winning Springboks skipper Siya Kolisi. Have retained seven of the nine Springboks that played in the World Cup. Have brought in Welsh veteran centre Jamie Roberts.
• Causes for Concern: Failed to make the playoffs in the last two seasons after reaching the playoffs in the previous three seasons. World-class lock Eben Etzebeth has departed.
• Summary: The Stormers start a new era following the departure of head coach Robbie Fleck. On paper they should be the best of the South African teams. Whether or not they can challenge the Jaguares is another question.

 

 

Futures Betting Tips

Compare the latest Super Rugby odds

Title winner

At 3.25 (Sportsbet) the Crusaders look too short, especially given they started as 4.00 favourites last season with a vastly more experienced squad. I’m not prepared to lay them at those odds, however, given they have a soft schedule to start the season. The Crusaders’ only overseas trip before Round 12 is against the Sunwolves.

The Chiefs at 4.70 (Betfair) are a definite title contender but they will be playing in the toughest conference. I wouldn’t dissuade anyone from backing them.

The value pick at current odds are Jaguares at 14.00 (Betfair). The South African conference has seen a huge amount of player departures after the World Cup with many South Africans feeling that their future lies in the Northern Hemisphere. If the Jaguares can secure the first overall seed then they would be an excellent chance of winning the title. The Jaguares start the season with three straight home games, which provides the opportunity to get their season off to a strong start.

Conference winners

For the New Zealand conference I would Dutch the Crusaders at 1.85 (BetEasy) and the Chiefs at 3.25 (BetEasy).

The Reds at 6.00 (BetEasy) are value to win the Australian conference, however I wouldn’t back them yet because they have a rough schedule to start the season. I would look to back them after Round 3. If I had to back a team now to win the Australian conference it would be the Brumbies at 2.50 (BetEasy). They start the campaign with three winnable home games.

My pick to win the South African conference is the Jaguares at 2.15 (BetEasy). For those looking to be more conservative I would Dutch this bet with the Stormers at 3.75 (BetEasy).

Wooden Spoon

My pick for the wooden spoon is unsurprisingly the Sunwolves at 1.20 (BetEasy).

Playoffs

Given their massive loss of experience and their poor pre-season showing, I’m pessimistic about the Highlanders’ chances this year. I would back them to miss out on the playoffs at 3.25 (BetEasy). The Highlanders arguably only made the playoffs last season because their game against the Crusaders was cancelled and this year’s squad is a shadow of the 2019 edition.

 

Super Rugby Betting Resources

On Australia Sports Betting

• Weekly previews with betting tips are published every Thursday in the Super Rugby section
• Weekly Super Rugby form guides are available in the Data section
• Super Rugby bookmaker odds are available in the Odds Comparison section.
• Historical Super Rugby data, including game results and bookmaker odds are available in Excel (.xlsx) format
• Live rugby union scores, recent results and upcoming match schedules are available in the Live Scores section
• Rugby union betting promotions can be found in the bookmaker promotions section (not available to NSW visitors)
• A free Excel betting tracker spreadsheet is available to help you track your bets and measure your betting performance. OpenOffice and Google Sheets versions are also available

On Australia Sports Tipping

• The Interactive Super Rugby Form Guide enables you to filter each team’s form by home/away and strength of opponent.
• Super Rugby match centres are available for every fixture. Each match centre provides bookmaker odds, member tipping tallies, form guides and in-depth performance guides for the game.
• The Super Rugby line betting table ranks each team based on how frequently they have covered the line this season. Figures are shown for home, away and all fixtures.
• The Super Rugby predictability index ranks each team based on the predictability of their score lines as measured by the accuracy of pre-game bookmaker lines. Figures are shown for home, away and all fixtures.
• The Super Rugby betting value index ranks each team based on their betting value in the head-to-head market. The data can be filtered by date.
• The Super Rugby home-field advantage analysis compares each team’s winning records at home versus away. League averages and medians are also provided. The data can be filtered by date.
• The Super Rugby Elo ratings tool enables you to calculate the Elo ratings of each team using the parameters of your choosing.

 

Pundit sources:

• ¹ The Roar
• ² ESPN

Notes

New and departed players lists are sourced from:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_2019–20_Super_Rugby_transfers

Squad lists have been sourced from:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2019_Super_Rugby_season#Players