5 Super Rugby Players to Watch in 2016

The Super Rugby Season is upon us, and with two new teams, as well as expanded broadcasting reaching the shores of the United States, it’s safe to say that this season will be bigger than any other. As ever, the Southern hemisphere is brimming with exciting young talent, so here are 5 players to look out for during this years edition of Super Rugby.

Kyle Godwin:

The Western Force have a real talent in Godwin. The 23 year old can play at 10 or 12, and his distribution and kicking give Michael Foley plenty of options in his young backline. Godwin’s electric step and deceptive power make him a real threat with ball in hand, and he loves to attack the line and then offload. You can expect to see the Zimbabwe born utility back at the core of the Force’s gameplan in attack. Godwin has been making major strides ever since he made his debut back in 2012, and we think this is his year to break out.

Damian McKenzie:

The Chiefs were full of surprises last season, and McKenzie was one of them. The 20 year old exploded onto the Super Rugby scene last year with his dynamic pace and agility. He wreaked havoc in the 2015 Super Rugby playoffs, in a losing effort to the Highlanders. Another versatile weapon, McKenzie is a potent operator at fullback and flyhalf, and is a devastating runner in space. While size may be an issue for McKenzie, he refuses to let that hold him back, and he makes up for his lack in size with plenty of desire.

Ben Volavola:

The former Waratahs flyhalf is making a move to the Crusaders following the departure of Dan Carter and Colin Slade. Volavola gave Fiji more solidity at 10, and will be looking to kickstart his career in Christchurch. With playmakers like Robbie Fruean and Nemani Nadolo outside him, it’s easy to see why his addition to the side makes them a real threat. At 25 years old, Volavola could become the long term option for the Crusaders at 10. The Crusaders have been struggling over the last few seasons, but perhaps the addition of Volavola at 10 will provide the spark they need.

Tomas Cubelli:

With Nic White off to France, the Brumbies needed a new 9, and found the perfect candidate in Tomas Cubelli. The scrappy Pumas 9 has been battling with Martin Landajo for years now (they even played for the same club in Argentina) and he is a like for like replacement for White. Language barrier aside, Cubelli will look to play the game at a high pace, and will relish playing behind forwards like David Pocock and Ita Vaea this season. Look for Cubelli to use his agility and pace to snipe for gaps around the fringes, before looking to put his teammates away for simple scores.

Reece Robinson:

Just the latest in a long line of league converts to give union a go, Robinson is a lethal finisher. His pace will be a huge asset for the Waratahs as they look to replace Adam Ashley Cooper. With talk of Israel Folau being shifted to outside center, the addition of another winger is just what the Tahs need, and Robinson should be a quality option. League converts tend to be hit or miss, but playing at wing is a relatively easy transition, and if Robinson can impress his coaches in NSW, I suspect he will play a major role this season.