The Hurricanes, Stormers, Brumbies and Chiefs are all flying high, while last year’s finalists find themselves at the wrong end of the table.

Chiefs V Highlanders

Last week, the Chiefs really put a stamp on their title claim with a thumping win over the Crusaders.

In 2015, the Chiefs look like the real deal. The combination of SBW and Aaron Cruden is proving devastating. While the Highlanders claimed their second win of the season over the Reds, the Chiefs are a completely different prospect. The Highlanders will need to get more quality ball out to players such as Fekitoa and Naholo to really push this game.

Prediction

The Highlanders may feel like they’re on a bit of a roll, with a gutsy victory over the Reds last weekend, but the Chiefs outclass the Reds in every aspect. And being played in Hamilton, I feel the Chiefs will prove too strong for the men from Dunedin. Cheifs by 15.

CHIEFS: Tom Marshall; Hosea Gear, Charlie Ngatai, Sonny Bill Williams, James Lowe; Aaron Cruden, Augustine Pulu; Liam Messam (capt) / Maama Vaipulu, Sam Cane, Johan Bardoul; Michael Fitzgerald, Matt Symons; Ben Tameifuna, Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu. Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Siate Tokolahi, Mitchell Graham, Michael Allardice, Michael Leitch / Maama Vaipulu, Brad Weber, Damian McKenzie, Andrew Horrell.

HIGHLANDERS: Ben Smith (co-capt); Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Shaun Treeby, Patrick Osborne; Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith; Nasi Manu (co-capt), Elliot Dixon, Gareth Evans; Joe Wheeler, Mark Reddish; Ma’afu Fia, Liam Coltman, Josh Hohneck. Reserves: Ash Dixon, Brendon Edmonds, Ross Geldenhuys, Tom Franklin, Dan Pryor, Fumiaki Tanaka, Marty Banks, Jason Emery.

Brumbies v Force

The hard-nosed and disciplined Brumbies should prove too strong for the one-dimensional Western Force.

The Canberra-based side have conceded one try in three games and have a lethal attack to complement their stoic defence. Steven Larkham’s side have also been awarded more penalties than any other team and conceded the fewest.

The return of Nick Cummins for the Force will provide some much-needed spark and hopefully a change in tactics from coach Michael Foley, who prefers to play a tight, forwards-based style.

Prediction

The Brumbies look set to show why they are top of the Australian conference and five-points clear of the fourth-placed Force. And with the game being played in Canberra, I can’t see the Force getting on top. Brumbies by 17.

BRUMBIES: Robbie Coleman, Henry Speight, Tevita Kuridrani, Christian Leali’ifano, Joe Tomane, Matt Toomua, Nic White, Ita Vaea, Jarrad Butler, Scott Fardy, Sam Carter, Rory Arnold, Ben Alexander, Stephen Moore, Scott Sio. Reserves: Josh Mann-Rea, JP Smith, Ruan Smith, Jordan Smiler, Blake Enever, Michael Dowsett, James Dargaville, Jesse Mogg.

FORCE: Luke Morahan, Marcel Brache, Kyle Godwin, Solomoni Jnr Rasolea, Nick Cummins, Zack Holmes, Alby Mathewson, Ben McCalman, Chris Alcock, Brynard Stander, Steve Mafi, Sam Wykes (c), Tetera Faulkner, Nathan Charles, Pekahou Cowan. Reserves: Heath Tessmann, Chris Heiberg, Oliver Hoskins, Wilhelm Steenkamp, Kane Koteka, Ian Prior, Sias Ebersohn, Luke Burton

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Highlanders V Crusaders

The good news for the Crusaders is that they probably can’t play any worse than they did in their opening loss to the Rebels. Their error count was through the roof in a listless display. They have made five changes to the starting side including the return of Israel Dagg while Colin Slade is at 10 with Dan Carter sidelined with a leg injury.

Hard to get a read on the Highlanders who will have seven debutants in the squad for their first outing of the season. It may take the Crusaders another week to get up to pace with the Highlanders to benefit.

Prediction

Crusaders are notorious slow starters, and the Highlanders are playing at home. The bookies have the Crusaders as favourites, but I’m going to tip those from the south in a bruising encounter. Highladers by 4.

HIGHLANDERS: Ben Smith (co-capt), Waisake Naholo, Malakai Fekitoa, Shaun Treeby, Patrick Osborne, Lima Sopoaga, Aaron Smith, Nasi Manu (co-capt), John Hardie, Elliot Dixon, Joe Wheeler, Tom Franklin, Ross Geldenhuys, Liam Coltman, Josh Hohneck.
Reserves: Ash Dixon, Kane Hames, Ma’afu Fia, Mark Reddish, Dan Pryor, Fumiaki Tanaka, Jason Emery, Marty Banks.

CRUSADERS: Israel Dagg, Robbie Fruean, Kieron Fonotia, Ryan Crotty, Johnny McNicholl, Colin Slade, Mitchell Drummond, Luke Whitelock, Matt Todd (capt), Richie McCaw, Scott Barrett, Luke Romano, Owen Franks, Ben Funnell, Wyatt Crockett.
Reserves: Codie Taylor, Joe Moody, Nepo Laulala, Dominic Bird, Jordan Taufua, Billy Guyton, Tom Taylor, Nafi Tuitavake.

Reds V Force

All eyes will be on Reds five-eighth James O’Connor, who makes his first appearance of the season along with fellow big name recruit Adam Thomson. Queensland will be hoping the former golden boy can spark the attack, which was put under immense pressure in their drubbing by the Brumbies.

But the Force are flying high after putting the defending champion Waratahs to the sword in Sydney. They showed plenty in attack against NSW, scoring four tries, and they haven’t lost to the Reds in their last five matches. That could be extended to six.

Getting my weather girl on

This game is no certainty to go ahead, severe tropical cyclone Marcia is baring down the eastern coast line of Australia, and is expected to hit Brisbane right around kick-off on Saturday night. A call on whether or not the game will go ahead will be made at 8am local time in Brisbane (+10 GMT).

Prediction

Recent developments in regards to Karmichael Hunt, the Reds challenge is not only to shake off last week’s thrashing at the hands of the Brumbies, but also to get concerns about their vice-captain out of their heads.

On the other hand the Reds can only play better than they did last week, but the wet weather will play into the hands of the Force, who like to play a tight, forward dominated game. Force by 8.

REDS: James Slipper (capt), Saia Fainga’a, Sam Talakai, Marco Kotze, James Horwill, Adam Thomson, Liam Gill, Jake Schatz, Will Genia, James OConnor, Lachie Turner, Samu Kerevi, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Chris Kuridrani, 15 TBA (likey to be JJ Tuilagi).
Reserves: James Hanson, Ben Daley, Sef Faagase, Tom Murday, Curtis Browning, Nick Frisby, Sam Johnson, Campbell Magnay.

FORCE: Zack Holmes, Luke Morahan, Kyle Godwin, Junior Rasolea, Marcel Brache, Sias Ebersohn, Alby Mathewson, Ben McCalman, Chris Alcock, Angus Cottrell, Adam Coleman, Sam Wykes (capt), Tetera Faulkner, Nathan Charles, Francois van Wyk.
Reserves: Heath Tessmann, Chris Heiberg, Oliver Hoskins, Steve Mafi, Brynard Stander, Ian Prior, Luke Burton, Mitchell Scott.

Stormers V Blues

It’s danger time for the Blues, as they head to the Republic for two weeks after losing their season opener at home against the Chiefs. And it won’t be a toothless Stormers outfit awaiting them either. The men from Cape Town knocked over the much-hyped Bulls last week to get their season off to a flyer.

Springbok and Stormers prop Frans Malherbe makes his return from injury, while Test flanker Siya Kolisi and winger Kobus van Wyk may also make their returns. The Blues have an exciting backline, but they failed to fire last week, and the side conceded more clean breaks, metres and offloads than any team in the comp.

Prediction

The Blues will have it tough in Cape Town. If the Stormers perform the same way they did against the the Bulls last week, the Blues will be up against it. The bookies have the Stormers as a heavy favourite, and so do I. Stormers by 12.

STORMERS: Cheslin Kolbe, Johnny Kotze, Juan de Jongh, Damian de Allende, Dillyn Leyds, Demetri Catrakilis, Nic Groom, Duane Vermeulen (capt), Michael Rhodes, Rynhardt Elstadt, Ruan Botha, Jurie van Vuuren, Vincent Koch, Scarra Ntubeni, Steven Kitshoff. Reserves: Bongi Mbonambi, Oli Kebble, Wilco Louw, Siya Kolisi, Nizaam Carr, Louis Schreuder, Kurt Coleman, Huw Jones

BLUES: Charles Piutau, Ben Lam, Hamish Northcott, Francis Saili, Tevita Li, Ihaia West, Jimmy Cowan, Jerome Kaino (capt), Brendon O’Connor, Steven Luatua, Hayden Triggs, Josh Bekhuis, Angus Ta’avao, James Parsons, Tony Woodcock. Reserves: Matt Moulds, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Charlie Faumuina, Patrick Tuipulotu, Luke Braid, Jamison Gibson-Park, Dan Bowden, Lolagi Visinia.

Sharks v Lions

The Lions came into 2015 with their typical promising signs of change, but in round one they once again failed to back it up with a loss to the Hurricanes. On the other hand the Sharks – who finished third last year – fell to South Africa’s least favoured team the Cheetahs.

However they finished very strongly and it was only a knock-on over the tryline in the 79th minute that cost them a win, so expect the Sharks to dust themselves off and bounce back here. That said, if they do fall to their perennial underachieving countrymen there will be a lot of worried Sharks fans. And rightly so.

Prediction

On paper, you’d have the Sharks in an easy one, but the boot of Marnitz Boshoff may change that. The Lions will have to work for a full 80 in defence to stand a chance. Sharks by 18.

SHARKS: SP Marais, Odwa Ndungane, Waylon Murray, Heimar Williams, Lwazi Mvovo, Patrick Lambie, Cobus Reinach, Tera Mtembu, Renaldo Bothma, Marcell Coetzee, Pieter-Steph du Toit, Lubabalo Mtyanda, Jannie du Plessis, Bismarck du Plessis (capt), Dale Chadwick.
Reserves:Kyle Cooper, Thomas du Toit, Matt Stevens, Marco Wentzel, Jean Deysel, Conrad Hoffmann, Fred Zeilinga, Andre Esterhuizen.

LIONS: Andries Coetzee, Ruan Combrinck, Lionel Mapoe, Howard Mnisi, Courtnall Skosan, Marnitz Boshoff, Ross Cronje, Warren Whiteley (capt), Warwick Tecklenburg, Derick Minnie, Franco Mostert, Martin Muller, Ruan Dreyer, Malcolm Marx, Jacques van Rooyen.
Reserves: Robbie Coetzee, Schalk van der Merwe, Julian Redelinghuys, JP du Preez, Ruaan Lerm, Faf de Klerk, Elton Jantjies,  Harold Vorster

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There’s only been one round played, it’s a bit early to be calling it. Especially when many of the New Zealand and South African teams are resting stars.

Chiefs V Brumbies

The Chiefs are bringing back their stars, and the Brumbies have lost David Pocock, yet again, to injury. Fortunately it’s his ankle, not his knee on this occasion, and he will be back in 4-6 weeks.

Returning for the Chiefs are All Blacks forwards Brodie Retallick and Liam Messam, while flyhalf Aaron Cruden will rekindle his partnership with superstar Sonny Bill Williams. Remarkably, these two teams were the only ones who finished in the top five last year to kick off 2015 with a win.

Prediction

Sure, the Brumbies destroyed the Reds last week, but that was on the back of the work of Pocock, who almost single-handedly starved the Reds of possession. This week with Cruden back to partner with SBW, as well as the match being played at New Plymouth, it makes it impossible to go past the Chiefs. Chiefs by 6.

CHIEFS: James Lowe, Bryce Heem, Charlie Ngatai, Sonny Bill Williams, Hosea Gear, Aaron Cruden, Brad Weber; Maama Vaipulu, Sam Cane, Liam Messam (capt), Michael Fitzgerald, Matt Symons, Siate Tokolahi, Hika Elliot, Jamie Mackintosh.

Reserves: Quentin MacDonald, Pauliasi Manu, Ben Tameifuna, Brodie Retallick, Tevita Koloamatangi, Augustine Pulu, Damian McKenzie, Seta Tamanivalu.

BRUMBIES:  Robbie Coleman, Henry Speight, Tevita Kuridrani, Christian Lealiifano,  Joseph Tomane, Matt Toomua, Nic White, Ita Vaea, Jarrad Butler, Scott Fardy, Rory Arnold, Sam Carter, Ben Alexander, Josh Mann-Rea, Scott Sio.

Reserves: Stephen Moore, Jean-Pierre Smith, Ruan Smith, Jordan Smiler, Sean Doyle, Michael Dowsett, James Dargaville, Lausii Taliauli.

Rebels V Waratahs

Some interesting stats in the lead-up to this match. The Waratahs have never started a season with two losses, and the Rebels have never started with two wins. The key to this match is the back-row, with the Rebels loose three putting in a high quality performance against the Crusaders and the Waratahs’ counterparts well below par against the Force, only managing one turn over in the 80 minutes.

The ‘Tahs won’t be helped by the loss of Wallaby Cliff Palu with a knee injury. Melbourne are missing suspended halfback Nic Stirzaker but have a very capable substitute in Luke Burgess. The Tahs match up well against the Rebels and surely couldn’t play as badly as they did against the Force.

Prediction

The Rebels will be coming into this match full of confidence after their amazing performance against the Crusaders, and the Waratahs will have a point to prove after failing against the Force.

The odds at most betting agencies have the ‘Tahs, playing at home a strong favourite, but I think it’ll be a lot closer than that suggests. Waratahs by 3.

REBELS: Mike Harris, Dom Shipperley, Tamati Ellison, Mitch Inman, Tom English, Jack Debreczeni, Luke Burgess (capt), Scott Higginbotham, Colby Fainga’a, Sean McMahon, Lopeti Timani, Luke Jones, Laurie Weeks, Pat Leafa, Toby Smith.

Reserves: Ben Whittaker, Cruze Ah-Nau, Paul Alo-Emile, Sam Jeffries, Scott Fuglistaller, Ben Meehan, Bryce Hegarty, Sefanaia Naivalu

WARATAHS: Israel Folau, Taqele Naiyaravaro, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Kurtley Beale, Rob Horne, Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps, Stephen Hoiles, Michael Hooper, Jaques Potgieter, Will Skelton, David Dennis (capt), Sekope Kepu, Tatafu Polota-Nau, Benn Robinson.

Reserves: Tolu Latu, Jeremy Tilse, Paddy Ryan, Sam Lousi, Mitchell Chapman, Brendan McKibbin, Matt Carraro, Pat McCutcheon, Peter Betham.

Bulls v Hurricanes

The Bulls fell way short of the lofty expectations many were expecting from them in their loss to the Stormers last week. The Hurricanes on the otherhand showed that the hapless Lions look destined for another cellar dweller season by beating them in Johannesburg.

Pierre Spies comes into the Bulls lineup as captain after replacing injured No.8 Arno Botha. Meanwhile, All Blacks centre Ma’a Nonu will make his first return appearance for the Hurricanes at the expense of Rey Lee-Lo. Flanker Callum Gibbins will also make his first start for the ‘Canes ahead of much-touted youngster Ardie Savea.

Prediction

The ‘Canes can go from hot to cold at a moments notice, and playing against a higher quality team this week in the shape of the Bulls, we can expect a much closer contest.

I think the Bulls will bounce back from last weeks results to put in a much beef-ier performance. Bulls by 4.

BULLS: Jesse Kriel, Bjorn Basson, JJ Engelbrecht, Jan Serfontein, Francois Hougaard, Handre Pollard, Piet van Zyl, Pierre Spies (capt), Lappies Labuschagne, Deon Stegmann, Victor Matfield, Jacques du Plessis, Trevor Nyakane, Adriaan Strauss, Morne Mellett.

Reserves: Callie Visagie, Dean Greyling, Dayan van der Westhuizen, Grant Hattingh, Hanro Liebenberg, Rudy Paige, Jacques-Louis Potgieter, Jurgen Visser.

HURRICANES: Jason Woodward, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith (capt), Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara, Blade Thomson, Callum Gibbins, Brad Shields, James Broadhurst, Mark Abbott, Ben Franks, Dane Coles, Reggie Goodes.

Reserves: Brayden Mitchell, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Chris Eves, Ardie Savea, Victor Vito, Chris Smylie, James Marshall, Matt Proctor

Happy Tipping.

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And after a lack-lustre performance by a majority of the teams in the South African conference, no doubt the boys from Africa will come out firing to prove they’re not the easy-beats as many labelled them 2014.

Lions V Hurricanes

Despite being perennial cellar-dwellers, the Lions finished last season with three straight wins, not to mention coming second in the 2014 Currie Cup. Yet even if they finally get things clicking in 2015, you just never know what Hurricanes outfit will show up in South Africa.

One of Super Rugby’s most unpredictable teams, the Hurricanes will have to do it without All Blacks Ma’a Nonu (birth of child) and Jeremy Thrush (calf).

The Lions, having only completed their 2015 squad last week is an unknown quantity themselves, and playing at home, are tough to beat.

Prediction

Without a game being played in anger, it’s hard to determine exactly how each team will go in their first match. The Lions’ defence will have to be at their best with the counter attacking capability of the Hurricanes back three.

A strong kick-chase game, coupled with the goal kicking boot of Marnitz Boshoff is the Lions best chance to win. However, I feel the Hurricanes have too much strike power. Hurricanes by 6.

LIONS: Andries Coetzee, Ruan Combrinck, Lionel Mapoe, Howard Mnisi, Courtnall Skosan, Marnitz Boshoff, Ross Cronjé, Warren Whiteley (Capt), Derick Minnie, Jaco Kriel, Franco Mostert, Martin Muller, Ruan Dreyer, Malcolm Marx, Schalk van der Merwe.

Reserves: Armand van der Merwe, Corne Fourie, Jacques van Rooyen, Robert Kruger, Warwick Tecklenburg, Faf de Klerk, Elton Jantjies, Stokkies Hanekom.

HURRICANES: Jason Woodward, Cory Jane, Conrad Smith (Capt), Rey Le-Lo, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, TJ Perenara, Blade Thomson, Ardie Savea, Brad Shields, James Broadhurst, Mark Abbott, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Dan Coles, Ben Franks.

Reserves: Brayden Mitchell, Reggie Goodes, Chris Eves, Callum Gibbins, Victor Vito, Chris Smylie, James Marshall, Matt Proctor.

Blues V Chiefs

Sonny Bill Williams is back in the Chiefs’ line-up but a host of All Blacks are being rested with the World Cup in mind.

Keven Mealamu and Patrick Tuipulotu won’t run out for the Blues while Brodie Retallick, Aaron Cruden and Liam Messam are absent for the Chiefs.

Champion All Blacks prop Tony Woodcock returns from shoulder surgery to play his first Super Rugby match in eight months, while Luke Braid makes his shoulder injury comeback from the bench.

The Blues might have a solid success rate against fellow Kiwi teams at home, but the Chiefs boast a more respectable outfit – having made the finals in their three previous seasons.

Prediction

Even though the match is being played at QBE Stadium, the Chiefs are fielding a far more respectable line-up, including the massive ‘in’ of SBW, who will most likely take a lot of attention of the inexperienced Chief’s halves pairing, allowing him to play with more freedom.

The Blues are playing far from their strongest XV, resting many. Due to this fact, I find it hard to go past the Chefs. Chiefs by 8.

BLUES: Lolagi Visinia, Charles Piutau, George Moala/Hamish Northcot, Francis Saili, Tevita Li, Ihaia West, Jimmy Cowan, Jerome Kaino (Capt), Brendon O’Connor, Steven Luatua, Hayden Triggs, Josh Bekhuis, Angus Ta’avao, James Parsons, Tony Woodcock.

Reserves: Matt Moulds, Ofa Tu’ungafasi, Charlie Faumuina, Akira Ioane, Luke Braid, Jamison Gibson-Park, Simon Hickey, Hamish Northcott/Ben Lam.

CHIEFS: Tom Marshall, Tim Nanai-Williams, Charlie Ngatai, Sonny Bill Williams, James Lowe, Damian McKenzie, Brad Weber, Maama Vaipulu, Sam Cane, Johan Bardoul, Mike Fitzgerald, Matt Symons (Capt), Ben Tameifuna, Hika Elliot, Pauliasi Manu.

Reserves: Rhys Marshall, Jamie Mackintosh, Siate Tokolahi, Michael Allardice, Tevita Koloamatangi, Augustine Pulu, Marty McKenzie, Bryce Heem.

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It’s back! Super Rugby is finally back!

After a long Southern Hemisphere summer, with nothing better on TV than cricket, Super Rugby kicks off season 2015 with fixtures that include some massive local derby matches, such as Reds v Brumbies, Blues v Chiefs, Sharks v Cheetahs and Bulls v Stormers.

Crusaders V Rebels

The Crusaders are set to roll out the heavy artillery as the seven-time Super Rugby champions prepares to host Melbourne in Christchurch on Friday night.

Stung by three successive pre-season trial match losses, slow starts to the season is nothing new for the Crusaders. Coach Todd Blackadder has confirmed they will be playing, Wyatt Crockett, Richie McCaw, Ryan Crotty and Dan Carter against the Rebels.

However, while those four will be a boost to the Christchurch based team, they’ll still be without All Black stars,  Kieran Read, Israel Dagg, Sam Whitelock and Andy Ellis.

On the other hand, Melbourne will have almost a full list to choose from as it chases its first win abroad.

The Rebels have repeatedly gone close to snaring their first scalp in both New Zealand and South Africa but are yet to break through.

While little can, or should be read into pre-season form, the Rebels have had a far better start to the season, which included a 25-18 win over the Reds, where as the Crusaders fell to the Queensland team 35-12.

However, that positive momentum may count for little against a Crusaders team which is yet to show their full-strength team.

Prediction

Lets not beat around the bush. While many pundits will try to make much of trial matches, this is the first match played in anger, you can’t really take on board any more facts than the class of the two teams, and where the match is played. Crusaders by 12.

CRUSADERS (1-15): Joe Moody, Ben Funnell, Owen Franks, Luke Romano, Dominic Bird, Richie McCaw, Matt Todd (captain), Luke Whitelock, Mitchell Drummond, Daniel Carter, Johnny McNicholl, Tom Taylor, Kieron Fonotia, Robbie Fruean, Colin Slade.

Reserves: Codie Taylor, Alex Hodgman, Wyatt Crockett, Scott Barrett, Jordan Taufua, Billy Guyton, Ryan Crotty, Nathaniel Apa.

REBELS (1-15): Toby Smith, Pat Leafa, Laurie Weeks, Luke Jones, Lopeti Timani, Sean McMahon, Colby Fainga’a, Scott Higginbotham (c), Nic Stirzaker, Jack Debreczeni, Tom English, Mitch Inman, Tamati Ellison, Dom Shipperley, Mike Harris.

Reserves: Ben Whittaker, Cruze Ah-Nau, Paul Alo-Emile, Sam Jeffries, Scott Fuglistaller, Luke Burgess, Bryce Hegarty, Sefanaia Naivalu.

Reds V Brumbies

After the resurgence of the Reds over the seasons prior to last, many in Australia once considered this match-up to be the biggest, and most important in Australia. With the lack-lustre performance of the Reds in 2014, the gloss surrounding this match has some-what diminished for this season.

The Reds have left their bank manager a nervous wreck over the off season, with big name signings which include, Karmichael Hunt, James O’Connor, Adam Thompson, and ‘The Tongan Thor’.

With the kind of spending which hasn’t been seen in Brisbane for many years, the pressure is on Reds’ coach Richard Graham, a vast majority in Queensland seeing this year as Graham’s last chance. If he doesn’t perform in 2015, it may be the last we see of him for many years to come.

The Reds have had an up and down pre-season which included a loss to the Rebels, and a win over the Crusaders.

Much has been made over who will replace injured Reds fly-half Quade Cooper, but Rugby Leage/AFL/Rugby Union code-hopper Karmicheal Hunt has been given the nod for the opener in Canberra, after an impressive performance against the Crusaders at Ballymore last week, which left the Reds 28-0 up when he came off at half time.

So much has Hunt impressed, the Reds have handed him the vice captaincy in his first season back in rugby.

David Pocock has been named as the Brumbies’ run-on captain for the opener, although coach Stephen Larkham muddied the waters saying the entire squad was fit and available for selection.

That opens the way for Stephen Moore to make a surprising return off the bench as he makes his comeback from a knee reconstruction.

The Brumbies are coming off two losses in the pre-season trials, and this year will be a big test for the Canberra based franchise after losing stalwart forwards coach, and their co-head coach for the 2014 campaign, Laurie Fisher.

If the loss of Fisher has a detrimental affect on the Brumbies pack, it may force head coach, Stephen Larkham to change up the tried-and-true ‘Jake-Ball’ tactics, which have been the Brumbies trade-mark over the last few seasons.

Prediction

The Reds have an impressive line-up this year, and I have little doubt will perform better than they did in 2014. The Brumbies look strong, but may struggle with ‘Jake-Ball’ tactics after the loss of Fisher, Reds by 5.

BRUMBIES (1-15): Scott Sio, Josh Mann-Rea, Ben Alexander, Rory Arnold, Sam Carter, Scott Fardy, David Pocock (c), Jarrad Butler, Nic White (vc), Matt Toomua, Joe Tomane, Christian Lealiifano, Tevita Kuridrani, Henry Speight, Robbie Coleman.

Reserves: Stephen Moore, JP Smith, Ruan Smith, Jordan Smiler, Ita Vaea, Michael Dowsett, James Dargaville, Lausii Taliauli.

REDS (1-15): James Slipper (c), Saia Fainga’a, Sam Talakai, James Horwill, Marco Kotze, Curtis Browning, Liam Gill, Jake Schatz, Will Genia, Karmichael Hunt, Lachie Turner, Samu Kerevi, Chris Feauai-Sautia, Chris Kuridrani, Jamie-Jerry Taulagi.

Reserves: James Hanson, Ben Daley, Sef Faagase, Ed O’Donoghue, Adam Korczyk, Nick Frisby, Duncan Paia’aua, Campbell Magnay.

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With two rounds of action remaining Steve Hansen’s All Blacks boast a six-point cushion over Australia and South Africa in second and third respectively.

Such a margin means a bonus-point win over the Pumas will see New Zealand extend their Rugby Championship hegemony, having won both titles since the inaugural competition began with the introduction of Argentina in 2012.

Skipper Richie McCaw will equal a 43-year record Saturday, matching legendary lock Colin Meads who made 133 appearances for the All Blacks — 55 Tests and 78 other matches — before his 1971 retirement.

Flanker McCaw has worn the famous black jersey 132 times to date with all but one match against the Barbarians being Tests.

In a 15-year international career, the sheep farmer became an iconic figure, adored by his rugby-loving countrymen and respected by all opponents.

McCaw has developed into a modern rugby colossus, who led hosts New Zealand to the 2011 World Cup title.

While the All Blacks have dominated the Rugby Championship with 15 wins and a draw, Argentina have found life among the elite extremely difficult with one draw and 15 losses.

But New Zealand coach Hansen was quick to praise Argentina, who have lost three of four Championship games this season by seven or fewer points to earn a losing bonus point.

Physicality

A 28-9 defeat in soggy New Zealand was the only Test in which the Agustin Creevy-skippered South Americans failed to collect a losing bonus point.

“To beat the Pumas we must deliver a quality performance, full of excitement, energy, physicality and accuracy,” stressed the coach.

“The Pumas have been playing very well and are a much improved side since last season. Expectations of a home win among supporters will be high.”

Argentina coach Daniel Hourcade hopes a team lacking injured back-row star Juan Manuel Leguizamon can recover from a “shameful” 32-25 loss in Australia.

“It was our worst performance of the season as we spent most of the time defending,” he said. “The only consolation was that we still came close to a draw.”

Injuries and ill-discipline forced Hansen to change five of the team that started against the Springboks in a 14-10 Wellington win a fortnight ago.

In come centre Malakai Fekitoa, fly-half Beauden Barrett, hooker Keven Mealamu, lock Sam Whitelock while flanker Jerome Kaino, with the injured Ma’a Nonu, suspended Aaron Cruden, father-to-be Dane Cole as well as the dropped Jeremy Thrush and Steven Luatua making way.

Meanwhile, Pumas coach Hourcade has made three changes to his side following their 32-25 reverse against the Wallabies; Tomas Cubelli coming in at scrum-half, Thomas Lavanini returning at lock and Benjamin Macome replacing the injured Juan Manuel Leguizamon.

Keys

The weather will be crucial. It’s been a wet week in the Bay and more rain is predicted on Saturday night. It could denude the All Blacks of some of their attacking weapons and kicking will be crucial. Have they learned from their mistakes in Sydney? The Pumas’ scrum is a beast and the All Blacks’ pack need to stick to their task or they could be backpedalling at a rate of knots.

Prediction

While the Puma’s have performed stronger than anyone predicted in this year’s quad-country competition, beating the All Blacks at home or away, is a tough ask for anyone, let alone a team – somewhat unjustly, ranked outside the top 10.

For the Puma’s to have any chance, they’ll need to force the All Blacks into many, many scrums. But even then, the All Blacks looks too strong across the field.  Even with the off-field distraction of Aaron Cruden, the Kiwi’s should walk it in. I’m tipping New Zealand by 18.

Teams

All Blacks: Israel Dagg, Ben Smith, Conrad Smith, Ma’a Nonu, Julian Savea, Beauden Barrett, Aaron Smith, Kieran Read, Richie McCaw (capt), Liam Messam, Sam Whitelock, Brodie Retallick, Owen Franks, Dane Coles, Wyatt Crockett

Bench: Keven Mealamu, Ben Franks, Joe Moody, Jeremy Thrush, Sam Cane, TJ Perenara, Colin Slade, Malakai Fekitoa

Argentina: Joaquin Tuculet, Horacio Agulla, Marcelo Bosch, Juan Martin Hernandez, Lucas Gonzalez Amorosino, Nicolas Sanchez, Martin Landajo, Leonardo Senatore, Juan Manuel Leguizamon, Juan Martin Fernandez Lobbe, Tomas Lavanini, Mariano Galarza, Ramiro Herrera, Agustin Creevy (capt), Marcos Ayerza

Bench: Matas Cortese, Lucas Noguera Paz, Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro, Matas Alemanno, Rodrigo Baez, Tomas Cubelli, Santiago Gonzalez Iglesias, Juan Imhoff

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The Springboks are ranked second and the Wallabies third going into the penultimate-round southern hemisphere contest at tradition-steeped Newlands stadium. But the Wallabies would rise to second behind world champions New Zealand if they can end a 22-year Cape Town jinx.

Since a 26-3 win there in 1992 over opponents making only their second appearance after years of apartheid-induced isolation, the Wallabies have suffered six consecutive losses.

Australia turned the tables this month with a 24-23 win in Perth that proved anything but a celebration for Springbok wing Bryan Habana as he reached the 100-cap milestone. He was controversially yellow-carded late in the second half for a tackle on Adam Ashley-Cooper and the Wallabies took advantage to snatch victory via a late Rob Horne try.

South Africa lost again one week later, going down 14-10 to nemesis New Zealand, albeit after a much more passionate, defensively strong display. Those losses and Australia being beaten away to New Zealand have left the Springboks and Wallabies six points adrift of the All Blacks with two rounds to go.

And if New Zealand gain an expected win in Argentina later on Saturday and collect a four-try bonus point they will seal a third consecutive Championship title. Given they have the tougher final-round fixture – at home to the All Blacks – South Africa must overcome Australia to have a realistic chance of finishing runners-up for the second successive season.

“This will be a tough outing and we have to fire on all cylinders for the full 80 minutes,” said Springboks coach Heyneke Meyer. “It is great to be back in South Africa after three tough games on the road and we are looking forward to playing in front of our supporters.

“We have had a couple of great training sessions and there is a definite resolve to improve the quality of our performance on Saturday.”

Australia coach Ewen McKenzie believes the set-piece contests are set to play a crucial role in the outcome of the test.

“Set pieces are always an important focus for us – even more so when you play South Africa,” said the former Wallaby prop. “We realise the outcome of the scrums and line-outs will be vital to the final result. The Springboks always rise to another level when playing at home and we are under no illusions as to the challenges ahead.

“But we are looking forward to those challenges, in South Africa and in Argentina, as we continue evolving and improving our game.”

South Africa have made two injury-enforced changes to the side that started against New Zealand with scrumhalf Francois Hougaard and flanker Teboho Mohoje replacing Ruan Pienaar and Francois Louw.

Meyer has dismissed concerns about run-on debutant Mohoje, a 24-year-old who made his senior rugby debut only this year, being ring rusty.

“His match sharpness is a concern having last played in July, but he is very fit,” said Meyer of a forward expected to play 50 minutes before veteran Schalk Burger comes off the bench.

McKenzie has changed both wings from the team that edged Argentina with Adam Ashley-Cooper and Joe Tomane replacing Peter Betham and Horne. The other alteration is at hooker with Saia Fainga’a coming in for injured Tatafu Polota-Nau, and the inclusion of experienced prop Benn Robinson is among the bench changes.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Joe Tomane v Cornal Hendricks

Finally injury-free, Tomane makes a welcome return to the Wallabies backline for his first Test start since Australia’s win over Wales last December. Tomane replaces Rob Horne on the left wing, and the Brumbies flyer can expect anything other than a quiet reintroduction to Test rugby. That’s if the Wallabies follow the instructions of Fox Sports Rugby expert Rod Kafer, who says Tomane’s direct opponent — Hendricks — represents a weakness in the Boks backline.

“This is where the opportunity is for the Wallabies — get the ball and target Cornal Hendricks,” Kafer said on Rugby HQ. “He gets caught a lot in defence. There’s absolutely an opportunity for the Wallabies, if they can move the ball to the far left they’ll score some tries down Cornal Hendricks’ wing.” Of course, Hendrick does pose a big attacking threat of his own having scored five tries in his seven Tests to date, so Tomane will also have to aim up in defence.

Ben McCalman v Duane Vermeulen

Wycliff Palu’s continued absence through concussion provides McCalman with another chance to lock down a starting role for the Wallabies. The Western Force star has shrugged off the challenge of Scott Higginbotham to hold on to the No. 8 jersey, but will have his hands full up against the big Boks pack and particularly Vermeulen.

The abrasive back-rower was a powerhouse when he went toe-to-toe with reigning world player of the year Kieran Read in Wellington a fortnight ago. The Wallabies — in particular prop James Slipper, who was on the receiving of a brutal hit that was harshly penalised in Perth a fortnight ago — also know full well the damage that Vermeulen can cause. McCalman was solid in Australia’s narrow win over Argentina last start, and his ball-carrying and strong work-rate will be needed to help the Wallabies match the Springboks up front.

Bernard Foley v Handre Pollard

Foley’s return to the No. 10 jersey has coincided with back-to-back victories for the Wallabies, and he has the chance to steer them to a drought-breaking third-straight win when he starts a Test on the road for the first time. The Waratahs star’s attacking stats make for good reading — two line breaks, six tackle busts, and 122 run metres in those two triumphs — and he continues to impress as a goal-kicker.

Along with his clutch match-winning conversion against South Africa in Perth, Foley is yet to miss a penalty goal attempt in this season’s Rugby Championship, landing nine from nine. This weekend he’ll line up for the first time against young gun Pollard, who wins his first Test start against the Wallabies after being overlooked for the Perth loss. The occasion certainly won’t worry the 20-year-old, who was thrust into South Africa’s subsequent clash with the All Blacks in Wellington. He looked right at home against the world champions on their home turf, and should feel even more comfortable on home soil.

Prediction

The Wallabies are yet to find consistency this year, but will need to do so if they are to have any hope against the Springboks at their hoodoo venue.

Both the Wallabies and the Springboks need to win to stay in contact with the All Blacks at the top of the table, while at the same time hoping Argentina can pull off an upset against the All Blacks.

The Springboks have the obvious strength in the forwards and will be looking to exploit that later today. The Wallabies will need to ‘hang-tough’ to be in with a chance of pulling off an upset against the No. 2 ranked team.

The Wallabies have made a habit of making matches close, and I don’t expect that to change tonight, however, I can’t see them getting on top of the Springboks in Cape Town. I’m tipping the South Africa by 5 in a last 10 nail-biter.

Teams

Australia: Israel Folau, Adam Ashley-Cooper, Tevita Kuridrani, Matt Toomua, Joe Tomane, Bernard Foley, Nick Phipps; James Slipper, Saia Faingaa, Sekope Kepu, Sam Carter, Rob Simmons, Scott Fardy, Michael Hooper (captain), Ben McCalman.

Bench: James Hanson, Benn Robinson, Ben Alexander, James Horwill, Scott Higginbotham, Nic White, Kurtley Beale, Rob Horne.

South Africa: Willie le Roux, Cornal Hendricks, Jan Serfontein, Jean de Villiers (captain), Bryan Habana, Handre Pollard, Francois Hougaard; Tendai Mtawarira, Adriaan Strauss, Jannie du Plessis, Eben Etzebeth, Victor Matfield, Marcell Coetzee, Teboho Mohoje, Duane Vermeulen.

Bench: Bismarck du Plessis, Trevor Nyakane, Marcel van der Merwe, Bakkies Botha, Schalk Burger, Cobus Reinach, Pat Lambie, JP Pietersen.

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Tatafu returns from a knee injury to earn his 50th cap for the Wallabies and to re-claim the cursed #2 jersey. Polota-Nau strengthens the Wallabies scrum, which was embarrassed by the All Blacks in Auckland and sent backwards on two occasions when Rob Simmons was yellow carded and they decided to scrum with only seven, and by the Boks in Perth, resulting in two penalties. They could battle again on Saturday against a Pumas pack that dominated South Africa in Salta and sent the All Blacks pack backwards on a number of occasions in Napier.

If the Wallabies can achieve parity at scrum time it will allow them to unleash their dangerous backs, including Israel Folau and Tevita Kuridrani. The Pumas have no such game breakers and will rely heavily on their big men to stay in the contest.

The Wallabies and Pumas have both made three changes to their starting lineups.

Apart from Polota-Nau’s return, Ben McCalman replaces Wycliff Palu (concussion) in the gold No 8 jersey and Peter Betham comes in for Adam Ashley-Cooper (neck) on the wing. For the visitors, Juan Imhoff and Manuel Montero replace Horacio Agulla and Lucas González Amorosino on the wings respectively, while Matias Alemanno starts at No 5 lock in place of the suspended Tomas Lavanini.

The Pumas have not beaten the Wallabies in Australia since 1983, but have come close since joining the Rugby Championship, with a 23-19 defeat on the Gold Coast in 2012 followed by a 14-13 loss in wet conditions in Perth last year. If it rains (there is a 50% chance) Argentina will really fancy their chances of finally getting the job done.

KEY MATCH-UPS

Tatafu Polota-Nau v Agustin Creevy

Australia’s hooking crisis has been abated – somewhat – by the timely return from injury of human wrecking ball Polota-Nau. The Waratahs No.2 has recovered from a knee injury and will line up for his 50th Test on Saturday night. The Wallabies pack faces a massive challenge against the renowned Pumas scrum, but having a top-line hooker back should ready the front-row.

Polota-Nau will also provide plenty of punch around the field, with his aggressive defence and ability to bust through tackles with ball in hand. Creevy has been front and centre as Argentina demolished the Springboks scrum in the opening two rounds of the Rugby Championship and then gave the All Blacks plenty of headaches last weekend. But while Creevy and his fellow front-rowers will again try and establish set-piece dominance, it’s a victory on the scoreboard that they crave.

The skipper is no slouch around the field either and will be leading from the front to try as the Argentines chase their first win in The Rugby Championship.

Ben McCalman v Leonardo Senatore

An injury to Wycliff Palu has paved the way for McCalman to earn just his third Test start since 2011. The Western Force No.8 edged out Scott Higginbotham for the starting role, with coach Ewen McKenzie lauding his “abrasive and physical” play. Nicknamed the “Big Dog”, McCalman will be looking to bite into a powerful Pumas pack.

Along with their scrum, the back-row has been a source of strength for Argentina and McCalman’s opposite number Senatore slotted in nicely against the All Blacks when he replaced the injured Pablo Matera for his first start of the tournament. He was controversially denied what appeared a straightforward try at a crucial period early in the second half, but will be hoping for more joy on Saturday night.

Matt Toomua v Juan Martin Hernandez

Kurtley Beale’s late cameo off the bench against South Africa – and his combination with fellow Waratahs Nick Phipps, Bernard Foley and Israel Folau in particular – has left many questioning the starting claims of Toomua. The Brumbies playmaker has held on to his spot at inside centre but will be looking for a big game to silence the doubters.

While Toomua’s defensive abilities might tip the scales in his favour at present, he’ll still have his work cut out containing his rival on Saturday night. One of world rugby’s outstanding fullbacks over the years, Hernandez has moved closer to the action for Argentina. He’s getting on at 32 but his class remains and, alongside in-form flyhalf Nicolas Sanchez, shapes as a dangerous attacking threat.

Prediction

If the Wallabies pack manages to hold strong at scrum time, and keep the penalty count for the Argentines low, we should see the Wallabies run away with it with the wealth of talent they possess in the back-line.

The Puma’s are not the push-over they’ve been in the past, and strong performances against the All Blacks and the Springboks indicates that. However, we see the likes of Folau, Foley, Kuridrani, Toomua ect… being too much for the Puma’s to handle out wide. Wallabies by 15.

Teams

Wallabies – 15 Israel Folau, 14 Peter Betham, 13 Tevita Kuridrani, 12 Matt Toomua, 11 Rob Horne, 10 Bernard Foley, 9 Nick Phipps, 8 Ben McCalman, 7 Michael Hooper (c), 6 Scott Fardy, 5 Rob Simmons, 4 Sam Carter, 3 Sekope Kepu, 2 Tatafu Polota-Nau, 1 James Slipper.
Bench: 16 James Hanson, 17 Pek Cowan, 18 Ben Alexander, 19 James Horwill, 20 Scott Higginbotham, 21 Matt Hodgson, 22 Nic White, 23 Kurtley Beale.

Argentina – 15 Joaquín Tuculet, 14 Juan Imhoff, 13 Marcelo Bosch, 12 Juan Martín Hernández, 11 Manuel Montero, 10 Nicolás Sánchez, 9 Martín Landajo, 8 Leonardo Senatore, 7 Juan Martín Fernández Lobbe, 6 Juan Manuel Leguizamón, 5 Matías Alemanno, 4 Mariano Galarza, 3 Ramiro Herrera, 2 Agustin Creevy, 1 Marcos Ayerza.
Bench: 16 Matías Cortese, 17 Bruno Postiglioni, 18 Nahuel Tetaz Chaparro, 19 Benjamin Macome, 20 Rodrigo Báez, 21 Tomás Cubelli, 22 Jerónimo De la Fuente, 23 Lucas González Amorosino.

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More often than not when these two teams meet, it’s a match-up of the top two nations in world rugby, and there is no difference today. The Boks have looked a little shaky as of late, narrowly scraping past Argentina twice and losing narrowly to the Wallabies last weekend.

The tourists must settle on their game plan, too often this year it almost looks as if they’re not too sure what to do, kick-chase or play expansive. The All Blacks are missing some key players for this game, but on paper, would still appear to have more cohesion and flair.

While most nations can only dream of beating the All Blacks, South Africa’s Springboks have won against them 34 times. New Zealand has dominated in recent decades and still has the edge in the head-to-heads, with 50 victories, but the win percentage of 57% is its lowest against anyone.

New Zealand has won their last 35 matches at home, easily a record – 13 more than the next nearest nation has managed. The All Blacks last loss in New Zealand can exactly five years ago. And the opponents on that day was South Africa who departed Waikato Stadium with a 32-29 victory. The Springboks have now lost to New Zealand in their last five meetings.

Steve Hanson’s job has been made a little more difficult with injuries to Sam Whitelock and Liam Messam. Aaron Cruden moves into the starting line-up and Beauden Barrett shifting to the bench.

The Springboks have shown they are set on attack, naming 20-year olf Handre Pollard at fly half. “The forwards are settled, but we’re struggling to get continuity in the back-line.” Meyer said.

Referees have come under the spotlight in the Rugby Championship and adapting to Frenchman Jerome Garces could be crucial. Avoiding yellow cards and getting on the right side of scrum and technical ruck rulings are vital in tight Tests. Both teams have won five-from-five under Garces.

Key Match-Ups

Brodie Retallick v Eben Etzebeth

Two of the best young locks in world rugby will face off when Brodie Retallick and Eben Etzebeth do battle in Wellington on Saturday night.

The 23-year-old Retallick burst onto the scene with the Chiefs a couple of years ago and is now regarded as one of the most mobile locks on the planet. Busy in defence and a wonderful support player, Retallick has virtually become the prototype for the modern-day tall timber.

22-year-old Etzebeth probably doesn’t work as hard as his All Blacks rival but what he lacks in runs and tackles, he more than makes up for in raw aggression.

The Stormers giant is an excellent lineout option and although discipline can sometimes be a worry, he is capable of producing the kind of bone-jarring tackles that can turn a game.

Ma’a Nonu v Jean De Villiers

Springboks captain Jean De Villiers wouldn’t have it any other way, yet another showdown with great rival Ma’a Nonu is surely the skipper’s dream result in what is his 100th Test.

De Villiers was quoted earlier this week saying that he thought he’d never play another Test such was the horror show that was his debut way back in 2002, yet the blond bomber will go down as one of the great Bok backs when he eventually wraps up his stellar career.

The centurion has faced off with Nonu in many a Test, and the hard-running, hard-hitting duo know exactly what to expect from each other. The All Blacks No.12 has the advantage of having the experienced Aaron Cruden back at No.10 and that could be crucial early on.

Rising star Handre Pollard will face the All Blacks for the first time and the young flyhalf is bound to feel a few nerves in the opening stages. De Villiers will need to be a calming influence.

Israel Dagg v Willie Le Roux

They may not possess the raw power and athleticism of Israel Folau but rival fullbacks Willie Le Roux and Israel Dagg boast other strengths in creativity and wonderful individual skill.

Dagg was left out of the Bledisloe clashes against Australia due to a lack of form but quickly rediscovered the magic in an ITM Cup stint with Hawkes Bay. His inclusion again keeps the classy Ben Smith on the wing and alongside Julian Savea, the trio make up the most fearsome back three in the game.

Le Roux has been one of the standout attack threats in Super Rugby over the last few seasons and is now matching those efforts on the Test arena. Coach Heyneke Meyer wants his side to play more attacking rugby and Le Roux would benefit from a greater licence to roam.

Both men have the ability to make the match-winning play.

Our Prediction

All Blacks v Springboks is the most anticipated match of the year, and this one promises to be a ripper. How the All Blacks copes with the power of the South African pack. As well as how the Springboks manage to shut-down the All Blacks out wide and take away the space the Kiwi’s thrive on, will be key for both teams, and who ever adapts their respective challenges, best and quickest will have gone a long way to winning this match.

However, the All Blacks are on a 35 game winning steak at home, and we can’t see that trend changing today. We tip the All Blacks to win by 8.

Teams

New Zealand: 15 Israel Dagg, 14 Ben Smith, 13 Conrad Smith, 12 Ma’a Nonu, 11 Julian Savea, 10 Aaron Cruden, 9 Aaron Smith, 1 Wyatt Crockett,  2 Dane Coles, 3 Owen Franks, 4 Brodie Retallick,  5 Jeremy Thrush,  6 Steven Luatua, 7 Richie McCaw (c), 8 Kieran Read.
Bench: 16 Keven Mealamu, 17 Joe Moody, 18 Ben Franks, 19 Patrick Tuipulotu, 20 Sam Cane, 21 TJ Perenara, 22 Beauden Barrett, 23 Cory Jane.

South Africa: 15 Wille le Roux, 14 Cornal Hendricks, 13 Jan Serfontein, 12 Jean de Villiers (c), 11 Bryan Habana, 10 Handre Pollard, 9 Ruan Pienaar, 1 Tendai Mtawarira, 2 Adriaan Strauss, 3 Jannie du Plessis, 4 Eben Etzebeth, 5 Victor Matfield, 6 Francois Louw, 7 Marcell Coetzee, 8 Duane Vermeulen.
Bench: 16 Bismarck du Plessis, 17 Trevor Nyakane, 18 Marcel van der Merwe, 19 Lood de Jager, 20 Warren Whiteley, 21 Francois Hougaard, 22 Pat Lambie, 23 Damian de Allende.

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Ansett was still in the skies, George W Bush was only in his second year as US president, Brasil was the football world champions, the second movie in the Lord Of The Rings trilogy had just hit the screens, Eminem and Shakira were topping the charts, Alan Langer was still playing for the Broncos, it was the year the Steve Bradbury won THAT Olympic gold medal, the average price of petrol was 81c per litre and you could by a house in Sydney and get change from $500 000.

All Blacks historians may have a blank page open and pen in hand in anticipation that the worlds No. ranked team will provide an 18th consecutive Test win for them to document, and no doubt, if the All Blacks pull it off, it will be a feat worthy of congratulation.

Yet, the Wallabies have not given it a second thought as they strive to win back the long elusive Bledisloe.

With all the talk of the All Blacks record breaking run, everyone seems to have forgotten that the Wallabies are on a streak of their own, seven in a row. Something the Wallabies haven’t achieved since they last won the World Cup in 1999.

Wallabies coach, Ewen McKenzie has made six changes to his line-up, with the selection of Kurtley Beale at fly-half being the biggest shock of all. That forces Bernard Foley to the bench alongside outside centre Tevita Kuridrani, with Adam Ashley-Cooper shifting from wing to his preferred number 13 jumper. Pat McCabe and Rob Horne are the new wingers for Ashley-Cooper and Nick ‘The Honey Badger’ Cummins (Japanese rugby).

Up front hooker Nathan Charles makes his first Test start for Tatafu Polota-Nau (knee) and lock Sam Carter starts ahead of benched Waratahs giant Will Skelton. Hooker Stephen Moore and flanker David Pocock are out for the season with knee injuries. Young gun Tolu Latu (broken arm) and prop Laurie Weeks (hamstring) both suffered injuries last week and weren’t considered for selection.

Steve Hanson also sprung a surprise of his own, but of lesser proportions, leaving Israel Dagg out of his match day 23 in favour of in form Highlanders flyer, Ben Smith. Conrad Smith will also miss the opening test after flying home yesterday to be with his expectant wife. In his place comes Malaki Fekitoa. Fekitoa had a blinder of a season with the Highlanders and was a major reason for their success this year.

The loss of Conrad Smith is no small thing for the All Blacks. The 32 year old veteran is a defensive monster. With his loss, the Wallabies would be looking at opportunities that otherwise wouldn’t be there.

While Ma’a Nonu is solid on head to head defence, he can occasionally be found out in defence when lateral movement is required. Fekitoa may be a match winner with ball in hand, but you have to bear in mind, his defensive errors were a major factor when the Waratahs thrashed the Highlanders in Sydney 44-16. And Fekitoa will be matched up against the same centre that gave him those nightmares that day, Adam Ashley-Cooper.

With all the line-up changes, the big question still remains, can the Wallabies forwards match it with the Kiwi’s and give Beale the best chance to perform at his best at 10?

Key Match-Ups

Kurtley Beale v Aaron Cruden

It’s the biggest call since Coach Bombay swapped Goldberg for Julie the Cat in the penalty shoot-out during Mighty Ducks 2.

Not a fan of Disney’s famous ice-hockey trilogy? Well let’s put it this way – Kurtley Beale’s inclusion instead of Bernard Foley is a massive call, considering the superb play of the Waratahs No.10 this season.

But it looks to be the right one; McKenzie is throwing all his cards on the table in Sydney, as he knows the likelihood of a win in Auckland a week later isn’t all that great.

Beale’s speed and excellent passing game has been preferred to Foley’s direct approach in a move that is sure to see the Wallabies play with an enormous amount of width. The big question is whether the Wallabies forwards can get enough momentum up front to free up the space out wide.

That selection won’t have worried Aaron Cruden with the relaxed All Blacks No.10 back to his best after some indifferent early season form. He has the familiar midfield pairing outside him while his once frail defence is now more assured than ever.

His job is also made a lot easier by the wonderful flat service of halfback Aaron Smith.

Israel Folau v Ben Smith

This time last year both Israel Folau and Ben Smith found themselves playing on the wing – it’s now inconceivable that they play anywhere else but fullback.

Folau made the moved to fullback midway through last year’s Rugby Championship and hasn’t looked back with his aerial ability, counter-attack and footwork making him one of the toughest players to defend in the game.

He is coming off a superb Super Rugby season with the Waratahs and will need to continue that this weekend when he finds himself the leader of a new-look Wallabies back three.

Smith meanwhile has finally been given the chance to nail down the No.15 jersey at the All Blacks after he was preferred to Israel Dagg by coach Steve Hansen.

Smith had a sensational June series against England, his combination with powerhouse winger Julian Savea creating all kinds of headaches for the English defence.

The Highlanders custodian is also supremely confident under the high ball and has a powerful running game that belies his relatively slight frame.

Nathan Charles v Dane Coles

Saturday night’s clash has thrown up an intriguing match-up at hooker with Nathan Charles making his run-on debut against the robust Hurricanes rake Dane Coles.

Coles has already run up 18 caps in what has been a reasonably quick introduction to Test rugby following the retirement of Andrew Hore a couple of seasons ago.

The 27-year-old plays a little wider than most hookers and has an impressive turn of pace that allows him to not only bust the line, but also make metres once on the other side. His set-piece work is solid without being brilliant but in-form locks Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock should make easy targets at lineout time.

Charles’s story has been well-documented but it’s one worth repeating such is the devastating impact of cystic fibrosis. Charles has inspired people the world over yet his place in the side is no charity case – the boy can plan.

A workmanlike hooker in a similar mould to Coles, Charles’s main challenge will seemingly be at scrum time with the Wallabies front row set to be under all sorts of pressure from their All Black counterparts.

Prediction

Every year we hear the Australian fans and media beat up the Wallabies chances, only to see the Wallabies flop against the All Blacks. It’s one of the main reasons why the “fair weather fans” have turned away from Australian Rugby Union over the last 10 years.

How ever, this year, there is actual, genuine reason to get excited about this Wallabies team, it’s the first time in years they’re not coming into an international period without a massive list of injuries to vital players and with the Waratahs winning the Super Rugby title, there’s belief amongst the players as well.

The All Blacks are a team that can never be taken lightly, while Australia may be chasing their eighth consecutive win and sixth straight at home, the All Blacks have won the last four times the two teams have met in Sydney.

There is no question that the Wallabies are a much improved team from the one that went down 41-33 in Bledisloe III last year, however, whether or not they’ve improved enough to on top of the All Blacks is a different proposition.

Either way, this should be one entertaining match. Ewen McKenzie has never been one to sacrifice attack in place of defence and the All Blacks have plenty of attacking weapons of their own.

We predict a highly entertaining, high scoring match. And who will win? I’m going to sit on the fence for that. Too Close To Call.

Teams

Australia: 15 Folau, 14 McCabe, 13 Ashley-Cooper, 12 Toomua, 11 Horne, 10 Beale, 9 White, 1 Slipper, 2 Charles, 3 Kepu, 4 Carter, 5 Simmons, 6 Fardy, 7 Hooper (c), 8 Palu.
Bench: 16 James Hanson, 17 Pek Cowan, 18 Ben Alexander, 19 Will Skelton, 20 Scott Higginbotham, 21 Nick Phipps, 22 Bernard Foley, 23 Tevita Kuridrani.

New Zealand: 15 B Smith, 14 Jane, 13 Fekitoa, 12 Nonu, 11 Savea, 10 Cruden, 9 A Smith, 1 Crockett, 2 Coles, 3 O Franks, 4 Retallick, 5 S Whitelock, 6 Kaino, 7 McCaw (c), 8 Read.
Bench: 16 Mealamu, 17 B Franks, 18 Moody, 19 Luatua, 20 Cane, 21 Perenara, 22 Barrett, 23 Crotty.

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