British & Irish Lions
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[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg698553#msg698553 date=1224073690]
I know its still quite a way off but I'm allready looking forward to it.
I just wondered what peoples thoughts are at this stage about:
Who should be skipper? If he's fit, maybe O'Driscoll again. Ryan Jones of Wales might have been a candidate but he's a bit young yet. Jason White has a chance but may not be sure of his place in the team.
Chances of winning the series? Odds against, I'd say, but not heavily so.
Which country will get the most players on the tour? Very hard to say, and the Six Nations isn't always a reliable guide. I'd take a punt on England though.
Surprise inclusions? Miles Benjamin, left wing for Worcester Warriors. Absolute greased lightning but also VERY hard to bring down if anyone does catch him.
[/quote]
I know its still quite a way off but I'm allready looking forward to it.
I just wondered what peoples thoughts are at this stage about:
Who should be skipper? If he's fit, maybe O'Driscoll again. Ryan Jones of Wales might have been a candidate but he's a bit young yet. Jason White has a chance but may not be sure of his place in the team.
Chances of winning the series? Odds against, I'd say, but not heavily so.
Which country will get the most players on the tour? Very hard to say, and the Six Nations isn't always a reliable guide. I'd take a punt on England though.
Surprise inclusions? Miles Benjamin, left wing for Worcester Warriors. Absolute greased lightning but also VERY hard to bring down if anyone does catch him.
[/quote]
Who should be skipper: Paul O'Connell (I hope it's not Ryan Jones, he shouldn't be captain of Wales let alone the B&I Lions)
Chances of winning the series: Very good indeed
Which country will get the most players on the tour: Wales
Surprise inclusions: Leigh Halfpenny
Chances of winning the series: Very good indeed
Which country will get the most players on the tour: Wales
Surprise inclusions: Leigh Halfpenny
I haven't been watching enough rugby to really pick out some of these, but O'Connell would be my choice for captain. O'Driscoll wouldn't be guaranteed a place in the squad at the moment. He's been really poor for the past year. I think he seems to be coming back around this season though.
I think the squad will be more evenly broken down this time around, the number of English, Irish and Welsh players probably won't be too different.
I'd love to see a couple of younger Irish guys make the leap and get into the squad - Luke Fitzgerald and Rob Kearney.
Outhalf at the moment for me would be O'Gara, but if Cipriani develops as he should he'll get it.
I think the squad will be more evenly broken down this time around, the number of English, Irish and Welsh players probably won't be too different.
I'd love to see a couple of younger Irish guys make the leap and get into the squad - Luke Fitzgerald and Rob Kearney.
Outhalf at the moment for me would be O'Gara, but if Cipriani develops as he should he'll get it.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg698681#msg698681 date=1224086114]
Who should be skipper: Paul O'Connell (I hope it's not Ryan Jones, he shouldn't be captain of Wales let alone the B&I Lions)
Chances of winning the series: Very good indeed
Which country will get the most players on the tour: Wales
Surprise inclusions: Leigh Halfpenny
[/quote]
Ok, I'll bite...
Who should be captain of Wales?
and B'OD will be lucky to get on the tour on current form and in no way should be considered for Captain of the Lions.
Who should be skipper: Paul O'Connell (I hope it's not Ryan Jones, he shouldn't be captain of Wales let alone the B&I Lions)
Chances of winning the series: Very good indeed
Which country will get the most players on the tour: Wales
Surprise inclusions: Leigh Halfpenny
[/quote]
Ok, I'll bite...
Who should be captain of Wales?
and B'OD will be lucky to get on the tour on current form and in no way should be considered for Captain of the Lions.
[quote author=bryndaloo link=topic=27836.msg699314#msg699314 date=1224167162]
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg698681#msg698681 date=1224086114]
Who should be skipper: Paul O'Connell (I hope it's not Ryan Jones, he shouldn't be captain of Wales let alone the B&I Lions)
Chances of winning the series: Very good indeed
Which country will get the most players on the tour: Wales
Surprise inclusions: Leigh Halfpenny
[/quote]
Ok, I'll bite...
Who should be captain of Wales?
and B'OD will be lucky to get on the tour on current form and in no way should be considered for Captain of the Lions.
[/quote]
As a Wales and Ospreys fan I'd prefer a number of players over RJ as skipper. I'd play Ryan at 6 and give the captaincy to AWJ.
I've seen RJ go missing in so many games at number eight its unreal (at club and international level), it amazes me that he's on the list of the 5 nominations for world player of the year.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg698681#msg698681 date=1224086114]
Who should be skipper: Paul O'Connell (I hope it's not Ryan Jones, he shouldn't be captain of Wales let alone the B&I Lions)
Chances of winning the series: Very good indeed
Which country will get the most players on the tour: Wales
Surprise inclusions: Leigh Halfpenny
[/quote]
Ok, I'll bite...
Who should be captain of Wales?
and B'OD will be lucky to get on the tour on current form and in no way should be considered for Captain of the Lions.
[/quote]
As a Wales and Ospreys fan I'd prefer a number of players over RJ as skipper. I'd play Ryan at 6 and give the captaincy to AWJ.
I've seen RJ go missing in so many games at number eight its unreal (at club and international level), it amazes me that he's on the list of the 5 nominations for world player of the year.
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg699938#msg699938 date=1224257390]
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[/quote]
Yes you're right Rosco, and I'd also add that he was one of the only stand out players (for the B&I) on that tour when he was given a chance due to injuries. The problem is though that he has had at least 3 shoulder injuries since then (2 needing ops i think) and since then he seems to have lost that ability to cross the gain line. I know for a fact mate that the welsh coaching staff have doubts over his ability to play at number 8 long term and i guess thats why they were taking a good look at Delve before his latest injury put pay to that option for a while. I wouldn't be surprised to see Powell from Cardiff to get a call up for the November tests.
The B&I lions have a great front 5 but the back row is thin on quality, that'll be the main reason that RJ gets in the starting 15 if he does.
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[/quote]
Yes you're right Rosco, and I'd also add that he was one of the only stand out players (for the B&I) on that tour when he was given a chance due to injuries. The problem is though that he has had at least 3 shoulder injuries since then (2 needing ops i think) and since then he seems to have lost that ability to cross the gain line. I know for a fact mate that the welsh coaching staff have doubts over his ability to play at number 8 long term and i guess thats why they were taking a good look at Delve before his latest injury put pay to that option for a while. I wouldn't be surprised to see Powell from Cardiff to get a call up for the November tests.
The B&I lions have a great front 5 but the back row is thin on quality, that'll be the main reason that RJ gets in the starting 15 if he does.
Together with McGeechan that's a cracking coaching line-up. Those guys should get the best out of whoever ends up getting picked.
[quote author=Judge Jules link=topic=27836.msg704494#msg704494 date=1224702089]
Together with McGeechan that's a cracking coaching line-up. Those guys should get the best out of whoever ends up getting picked.
[/quote]
It's a bit of a shame thats theirs no Irish connection, but yeah thats a great coaching team thats been put in place.
Together with McGeechan that's a cracking coaching line-up. Those guys should get the best out of whoever ends up getting picked.
[/quote]
It's a bit of a shame thats theirs no Irish connection, but yeah thats a great coaching team thats been put in place.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg705026#msg705026 date=1224760159]
[quote author=Judge Jules link=topic=27836.msg704494#msg704494 date=1224702089]
Together with McGeechan that's a cracking coaching line-up. Those guys should get the best out of whoever ends up getting picked.
[/quote]
It's a bit of a shame thats theirs no Irish connection, but yeah thats a great coaching team thats been put in place.
[/quote]
Gatland was our coach prior to O'Sullivan. It's a very strong coaching staff (incidentally all have worked or currently work for Wasps), and it's worth noting that they have already signalled their intention to go about the job ina very different manner to Woodward.
[quote author=Judge Jules link=topic=27836.msg704494#msg704494 date=1224702089]
Together with McGeechan that's a cracking coaching line-up. Those guys should get the best out of whoever ends up getting picked.
[/quote]
It's a bit of a shame thats theirs no Irish connection, but yeah thats a great coaching team thats been put in place.
[/quote]
Gatland was our coach prior to O'Sullivan. It's a very strong coaching staff (incidentally all have worked or currently work for Wasps), and it's worth noting that they have already signalled their intention to go about the job ina very different manner to Woodward.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg700193#msg700193 date=1224275137]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg699938#msg699938 date=1224257390]
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[/quote]
Yes you're right Rosco, and I'd also add that he was one of the only stand out players (for the B&I) on that tour when he was given a chance due to injuries. The problem is though that he has had at least 3 shoulder injuries since then (2 needing ops i think) and since then he seems to have lost that ability to cross the gain line. I know for a fact mate that the welsh coaching staff have doubts over his ability to play at number 8 long term and i guess thats why they were taking a good look at Delve before his latest injury put pay to that option for a while. I wouldn't be surprised to see Powell from Cardiff to get a call up for the November tests.
The B&I lions have a great front 5 but the back row is thin on quality, that'll be the main reason that RJ gets in the starting 15 if he does.
[/quote]
I agree with you on Jones, he hasn't really ever looked the same. But as for the lack of back row quality ...... I'm not so sure.
Ireland has quite a few good back rowers, England have a number of talented up and coming back rowers too and if they make the transition thats expected they'll be viable candidates for tour spots.
I think the back row will be one of the toughest places to get a starting berth because there are so many good candidates.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg699938#msg699938 date=1224257390]
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[/quote]
Yes you're right Rosco, and I'd also add that he was one of the only stand out players (for the B&I) on that tour when he was given a chance due to injuries. The problem is though that he has had at least 3 shoulder injuries since then (2 needing ops i think) and since then he seems to have lost that ability to cross the gain line. I know for a fact mate that the welsh coaching staff have doubts over his ability to play at number 8 long term and i guess thats why they were taking a good look at Delve before his latest injury put pay to that option for a while. I wouldn't be surprised to see Powell from Cardiff to get a call up for the November tests.
The B&I lions have a great front 5 but the back row is thin on quality, that'll be the main reason that RJ gets in the starting 15 if he does.
[/quote]
I agree with you on Jones, he hasn't really ever looked the same. But as for the lack of back row quality ...... I'm not so sure.
Ireland has quite a few good back rowers, England have a number of talented up and coming back rowers too and if they make the transition thats expected they'll be viable candidates for tour spots.
I think the back row will be one of the toughest places to get a starting berth because there are so many good candidates.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg705059#msg705059 date=1224762941]
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg700193#msg700193 date=1224275137]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg699938#msg699938 date=1224257390]
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[/quote]
Yes you're right Rosco, and I'd also add that he was one of the only stand out players (for the B&I) on that tour when he was given a chance due to injuries. The problem is though that he has had at least 3 shoulder injuries since then (2 needing ops i think) and since then he seems to have lost that ability to cross the gain line. I know for a fact mate that the welsh coaching staff have doubts over his ability to play at number 8 long term and i guess thats why they were taking a good look at Delve before his latest injury put pay to that option for a while. I wouldn't be surprised to see Powell from Cardiff to get a call up for the November tests.
The B&I lions have a great front 5 but the back row is thin on quality, that'll be the main reason that RJ gets in the starting 15 if he does.
[/quote]
I agree with you on Jones, he hasn't really ever looked the same. But as for the lack of back row quality ...... I'm not so sure.
Ireland has quite a few good back rowers, England have a number of talented up and coming back rowers too and if they make the transition thats expected they'll be viable candidates for tour spots.
I think the back row will be one of the toughest places to get a starting berth because there are so many good candidates.
[/quote]
I look at Crane and Croft as potential stand out backrowers, but they won't reach the desired level for another 18 months or so for me.
Rees could make 7 his own if he carrys on his improvement (it will be a tour to many for Williams), and "If" he can stay fit, then White could do the job at 6. Other than that i don't really see to much top talent about in B&I in the backrow. Number 8 is one of the weakest spots to fill from the pool of players available.
Heres my guess:
1. Sheridan
2. Flanery
3. Vickery
4. O'Connell
5. Evans/AW Jones
6. White
7. Rees
8. ???
9. Phillips
10.Hook/O'Gara
11.Williams
12.Henson
13.O'Driscoll
14.Bowe
15.Byrne
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg700193#msg700193 date=1224275137]
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg699938#msg699938 date=1224257390]
Ryan Jones was outstanding in the run up to the last Lions tour (and missed out initially), easily the best ball carrier in the 6 Nations at the time. I think he'll have serious competition from Heaslip for the no.8 shirt but given it's virtually the Welsh coaching staff that have been appointed Jones will probably get it.
[/quote]
Yes you're right Rosco, and I'd also add that he was one of the only stand out players (for the B&I) on that tour when he was given a chance due to injuries. The problem is though that he has had at least 3 shoulder injuries since then (2 needing ops i think) and since then he seems to have lost that ability to cross the gain line. I know for a fact mate that the welsh coaching staff have doubts over his ability to play at number 8 long term and i guess thats why they were taking a good look at Delve before his latest injury put pay to that option for a while. I wouldn't be surprised to see Powell from Cardiff to get a call up for the November tests.
The B&I lions have a great front 5 but the back row is thin on quality, that'll be the main reason that RJ gets in the starting 15 if he does.
[/quote]
I agree with you on Jones, he hasn't really ever looked the same. But as for the lack of back row quality ...... I'm not so sure.
Ireland has quite a few good back rowers, England have a number of talented up and coming back rowers too and if they make the transition thats expected they'll be viable candidates for tour spots.
I think the back row will be one of the toughest places to get a starting berth because there are so many good candidates.
[/quote]
I look at Crane and Croft as potential stand out backrowers, but they won't reach the desired level for another 18 months or so for me.
Rees could make 7 his own if he carrys on his improvement (it will be a tour to many for Williams), and "If" he can stay fit, then White could do the job at 6. Other than that i don't really see to much top talent about in B&I in the backrow. Number 8 is one of the weakest spots to fill from the pool of players available.
Heres my guess:
1. Sheridan
2. Flanery
3. Vickery
4. O'Connell
5. Evans/AW Jones
6. White
7. Rees
8. ???
9. Phillips
10.Hook/O'Gara
11.Williams
12.Henson
13.O'Driscoll
14.Bowe
15.Byrne
Have a look at Heaslip in the upcoming internationals and Heineken cup games Rafa. He's superb and has really grown into a top level number 8 in the past 18 months.
The other up and coming Irish backrower is Shane Jennings who made his name at Leicester but still hasn't made the Irish squad despite a move back to Leinster.
Heaslip is the better of the two but Jennings was understudy to Back for a little while so learned a thing or two about the scrappy side of a 7's game.
Also Matt Stevens will finally oust Vickery this season both for England and the Lions. I'm still convinced Rob Kearney will be in that 15 by the time it's picked too. He's a lot like Joe Roff.
The other up and coming Irish backrower is Shane Jennings who made his name at Leicester but still hasn't made the Irish squad despite a move back to Leinster.
Heaslip is the better of the two but Jennings was understudy to Back for a little while so learned a thing or two about the scrappy side of a 7's game.
Also Matt Stevens will finally oust Vickery this season both for England and the Lions. I'm still convinced Rob Kearney will be in that 15 by the time it's picked too. He's a lot like Joe Roff.
Really? Given the best Roff was capable of, that's high praise indeed.
Agree about Stevens. Some may have seen him primarily as an impact player so far, but I'd sooner he were out there having an impact (literally) all the way through the game. If he goes on tour the home teams will target him, given his origins, but he'll revel in that.
Agree about Stevens. Some may have seen him primarily as an impact player so far, but I'd sooner he were out there having an impact (literally) all the way through the game. If he goes on tour the home teams will target him, given his origins, but he'll revel in that.
[quote author=Judge Jules link=topic=27836.msg709901#msg709901 date=1225286299]
Really? Given the best Roff was capable of, that's high praise indeed.
Agree about Stevens. Some may have seen him primarily as an impact player so far, but I'd sooner he were out there having an impact (literally) all the way through the game. If he goes on tour the home teams will target him, given his origins, but he'll revel in that.
[/quote]
I love watching Stevens play, I think he should have been starting in that England team for the past couple of years.
As for Kearney, I'm not saying he'll be as good as Roff but he has the potential to be. His game is similar to Roff's though. They both have a similar long easy running stride, very good strength and a huge left boot. Kearney is comfortable at both 15 and 11 too. There are plenty of similarities to justify the comparison but Kearney has a way to go before he's that good.
Really? Given the best Roff was capable of, that's high praise indeed.
Agree about Stevens. Some may have seen him primarily as an impact player so far, but I'd sooner he were out there having an impact (literally) all the way through the game. If he goes on tour the home teams will target him, given his origins, but he'll revel in that.
[/quote]
I love watching Stevens play, I think he should have been starting in that England team for the past couple of years.
As for Kearney, I'm not saying he'll be as good as Roff but he has the potential to be. His game is similar to Roff's though. They both have a similar long easy running stride, very good strength and a huge left boot. Kearney is comfortable at both 15 and 11 too. There are plenty of similarities to justify the comparison but Kearney has a way to go before he's that good.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg709868#msg709868 date=1225284853]
Have a look at Heaslip in the upcoming internationals and Heineken cup games Rafa. He's superb and has really grown into a top level number 8 in the past 18 months.
The other up and coming Irish backrower is Shane Jennings who made his name at Leicester but still hasn't made the Irish squad despite a move back to Leinster.
Heaslip is the better of the two but Jennings was understudy to Back for a little while so learned a thing or two about the scrappy side of a 7's game.
Also Matt Stevens will finally oust Vickery this season both for England and the Lions. I'm still convinced Rob Kearney will be in that 15 by the time it's picked too. He's a lot like Joe Roff.
[/quote]
I will keep a look out for them both Rosco. Is Bowe a regular for the Irish? Hes been the Ospreys stand out player this season.
You might be right about Stevens, Vickery not getting the captaincy for england suggests that his time as 1st pick might be coming to an end.
Have a look at Heaslip in the upcoming internationals and Heineken cup games Rafa. He's superb and has really grown into a top level number 8 in the past 18 months.
The other up and coming Irish backrower is Shane Jennings who made his name at Leicester but still hasn't made the Irish squad despite a move back to Leinster.
Heaslip is the better of the two but Jennings was understudy to Back for a little while so learned a thing or two about the scrappy side of a 7's game.
Also Matt Stevens will finally oust Vickery this season both for England and the Lions. I'm still convinced Rob Kearney will be in that 15 by the time it's picked too. He's a lot like Joe Roff.
[/quote]
I will keep a look out for them both Rosco. Is Bowe a regular for the Irish? Hes been the Ospreys stand out player this season.
You might be right about Stevens, Vickery not getting the captaincy for england suggests that his time as 1st pick might be coming to an end.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg705117#msg705117 date=1224766327]
I look at Crane and Croft as potential stand out backrowers, but they won't reach the desired level for another 18 months or so for me.
Rees could make 7 his own if he carrys on his improvement (it will be a tour to many for Williams), and "If" he can stay fit, then White could do the job at 6. Other than that i don't really see to much top talent about in B&I in the backrow. Number 8 is one of the weakest spots to fill from the pool of players available.
Heres my guess:
1. Sheridan
2. Flanery
3. Vickery
4. O'Connell
5. Evans/AW Jones
6. White
7. Rees
8. ???
9. Phillips
10.Hook/O'Gara
11.Williams
12.Henson
13.O'Driscoll
14.Bowe
15.Byrne
[/quote]
Jenkins before Sheridan.
Sheridan only does damage against the Aussies, plus he was one of the most penalised players in the Guinness Premiership last season due to his illegal scrummaging (lack of) technique.
Sheridan = very powerful player; fucking awful scrummager tecnically.
I look at Crane and Croft as potential stand out backrowers, but they won't reach the desired level for another 18 months or so for me.
Rees could make 7 his own if he carrys on his improvement (it will be a tour to many for Williams), and "If" he can stay fit, then White could do the job at 6. Other than that i don't really see to much top talent about in B&I in the backrow. Number 8 is one of the weakest spots to fill from the pool of players available.
Heres my guess:
1. Sheridan
2. Flanery
3. Vickery
4. O'Connell
5. Evans/AW Jones
6. White
7. Rees
8. ???
9. Phillips
10.Hook/O'Gara
11.Williams
12.Henson
13.O'Driscoll
14.Bowe
15.Byrne
[/quote]
Jenkins before Sheridan.
Sheridan only does damage against the Aussies, plus he was one of the most penalised players in the Guinness Premiership last season due to his illegal scrummaging (lack of) technique.
Sheridan = very powerful player; fucking awful scrummager tecnically.
I rate Jenkins as the best prop in the Northern Hemisphere (I think I've said that on here before too.)
As for Bowe - he has played a bit recently but he's not quite a regular yet. He should become one this year though. I have to confess to not being much of a fan of him Rafa. He got capped before he was ready IMO and his first few appearances left a bad impression of him in my mind. He was much improved last season so hopefully he'll continue in that vein of form.
As for Bowe - he has played a bit recently but he's not quite a regular yet. He should become one this year though. I have to confess to not being much of a fan of him Rafa. He got capped before he was ready IMO and his first few appearances left a bad impression of him in my mind. He was much improved last season so hopefully he'll continue in that vein of form.
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg711175#msg711175 date=1225371391]
I rate Jenkins as the best prop in the Northern Hemisphere (I think I've said that on here before too.)
As for Bowe - he has played a bit recently but he's not quite a regular yet. He should become one this year though. I have to confess to not being much of a fan of him Rafa. He got capped before he was ready IMO and his first few appearances left a bad impression of him in my mind. He was much improved last season so hopefully he'll continue in that vein of form.
[/quote]
He's yet to have a bad game so far this season for the Ospreys. He's played on the wing or in the centres and has been a real stand out performer in either position. I hadn't seen to much of him before he signed for us, but for me hes looks a real talent. If he was welsh he'd push Jamie Roberts/Shanklin for the second centre spot and would walk into the side on the wing instead of Mark Jones.
Jenkins can play on both sides of the scrum so i wouldn't be surprised to see him and Sheridan play in the front row for the Lions.
I rate Jenkins as the best prop in the Northern Hemisphere (I think I've said that on here before too.)
As for Bowe - he has played a bit recently but he's not quite a regular yet. He should become one this year though. I have to confess to not being much of a fan of him Rafa. He got capped before he was ready IMO and his first few appearances left a bad impression of him in my mind. He was much improved last season so hopefully he'll continue in that vein of form.
[/quote]
He's yet to have a bad game so far this season for the Ospreys. He's played on the wing or in the centres and has been a real stand out performer in either position. I hadn't seen to much of him before he signed for us, but for me hes looks a real talent. If he was welsh he'd push Jamie Roberts/Shanklin for the second centre spot and would walk into the side on the wing instead of Mark Jones.
Jenkins can play on both sides of the scrum so i wouldn't be surprised to see him and Sheridan play in the front row for the Lions.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg711186#msg711186 date=1225372253]
He's yet to have a bad game so far this season for the Ospreys. He's played on the wing or in the centres and has been a real stand out performer in either position. I hadn't seen to much of him before he signed for us, but for me hes looks a real talent. If he was welsh he'd push Jamie Roberts/Shanklin for the second centre spot and would walk into the side on the wing instead of Mark Jones.
Jenkins can play on both sides of the scrum so i wouldn't be surprised to see him and Sheridan play in the front row for the Lions.
[/quote]
I'd be very surprised to see that. Jenkins can play Tight-head, but to pick him as the best that Britain and Ireland can muster is ludicrous.
Stevens, Murray, A Jones, Vickery, hell even that shitehouse John Hayes would be ahead of Jenkins at Tight-head. Rhys Thomas has an ouside chance too.
Jenkins is a useful option to have to cover toghthead, but to pick him first choice would be downright foolish.
He's yet to have a bad game so far this season for the Ospreys. He's played on the wing or in the centres and has been a real stand out performer in either position. I hadn't seen to much of him before he signed for us, but for me hes looks a real talent. If he was welsh he'd push Jamie Roberts/Shanklin for the second centre spot and would walk into the side on the wing instead of Mark Jones.
Jenkins can play on both sides of the scrum so i wouldn't be surprised to see him and Sheridan play in the front row for the Lions.
[/quote]
I'd be very surprised to see that. Jenkins can play Tight-head, but to pick him as the best that Britain and Ireland can muster is ludicrous.
Stevens, Murray, A Jones, Vickery, hell even that shitehouse John Hayes would be ahead of Jenkins at Tight-head. Rhys Thomas has an ouside chance too.
Jenkins is a useful option to have to cover toghthead, but to pick him first choice would be downright foolish.
[quote author=bryndaloo link=topic=27836.msg711208#msg711208 date=1225374472]
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg711186#msg711186 date=1225372253]
He's yet to have a bad game so far this season for the Ospreys. He's played on the wing or in the centres and has been a real stand out performer in either position. I hadn't seen to much of him before he signed for us, but for me hes looks a real talent. If he was welsh he'd push Jamie Roberts/Shanklin for the second centre spot and would walk into the side on the wing instead of Mark Jones.
Jenkins can play on both sides of the scrum so i wouldn't be surprised to see him and Sheridan play in the front row for the Lions.
[/quote]
I'd be very surprised to see that. Jenkins can play Tight-head, but to pick him as the best that Britain and Ireland can muster is ludicrous.
Stevens, Murray, A Jones, Vickery, hell even that shitehouse John Hayes would be ahead of Jenkins at Tight-head. Rhys Thomas has an ouside chance too.
Jenkins is a useful option to have to cover toghthead, but to pick him first choice would be downright foolish.
[/quote]
He's played that position to a very high level in the past so i dont see why it would be foolish mate. Out of the players you've mentioned only Stevens and Vickery are around his level for me, and Rhys Thomas is utter shite (can you remember how he got on against the SA's in his 1st match against them?).
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg711186#msg711186 date=1225372253]
He's yet to have a bad game so far this season for the Ospreys. He's played on the wing or in the centres and has been a real stand out performer in either position. I hadn't seen to much of him before he signed for us, but for me hes looks a real talent. If he was welsh he'd push Jamie Roberts/Shanklin for the second centre spot and would walk into the side on the wing instead of Mark Jones.
Jenkins can play on both sides of the scrum so i wouldn't be surprised to see him and Sheridan play in the front row for the Lions.
[/quote]
I'd be very surprised to see that. Jenkins can play Tight-head, but to pick him as the best that Britain and Ireland can muster is ludicrous.
Stevens, Murray, A Jones, Vickery, hell even that shitehouse John Hayes would be ahead of Jenkins at Tight-head. Rhys Thomas has an ouside chance too.
Jenkins is a useful option to have to cover toghthead, but to pick him first choice would be downright foolish.
[/quote]
He's played that position to a very high level in the past so i dont see why it would be foolish mate. Out of the players you've mentioned only Stevens and Vickery are around his level for me, and Rhys Thomas is utter shite (can you remember how he got on against the SA's in his 1st match against them?).
Ireland named the team for the game against Canada this week, I'm really looking forward to seeing how they get on.
The backrow contains Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings. They're an interesting mix.
OUr backline has a few younger players in it too. Reddan and O'Gara at half back, O'Driscoll and Fitzgerald in the centre. Bowe and Kearney on the wing with a debutant at full back in the shape of Keith Earls.
I see Leigh Halfpenny is getting a game for Wales this weekend too Rafa
The backrow contains Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings. They're an interesting mix.
OUr backline has a few younger players in it too. Reddan and O'Gara at half back, O'Driscoll and Fitzgerald in the centre. Bowe and Kearney on the wing with a debutant at full back in the shape of Keith Earls.
I see Leigh Halfpenny is getting a game for Wales this weekend too Rafa
[quote author=Rosco link=topic=27836.msg716574#msg716574 date=1225978461]
Ireland named the team for the game against Canada this week, I'm really looking forward to seeing how they get on.
The backrow contains Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings. They're an interesting mix.
OUr backline has a few younger players in it too. Reddan and O'Gara at half back, O'Driscoll and Fitzgerald in the centre. Bowe and Kearney on the wing with a debutant at full back in the shape of Keith Earls.
I see Leigh Halfpenny is getting a game for Wales this weekend too Rafa
[/quote]
I'm looking forward to a weekend full of rugby and football mate. Yeah Halfpenny (future star) gets his chance as does Powell at 8 and Ryan Jones at 6 😉
I'm glad that Bowe got picked hes fully deserved it imo.
How do you think the home nations will go against the tri nations teams? I think Wales will run the SA's close and beat the Aussies, still no chance against the all blacks though.
I see that Munster are playing the All Blacks, thats a bit of a throw back to the old days and it should be a cracker.
I'll keep an eye out for Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings in particular.
Ireland named the team for the game against Canada this week, I'm really looking forward to seeing how they get on.
The backrow contains Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings. They're an interesting mix.
OUr backline has a few younger players in it too. Reddan and O'Gara at half back, O'Driscoll and Fitzgerald in the centre. Bowe and Kearney on the wing with a debutant at full back in the shape of Keith Earls.
I see Leigh Halfpenny is getting a game for Wales this weekend too Rafa
[/quote]
I'm looking forward to a weekend full of rugby and football mate. Yeah Halfpenny (future star) gets his chance as does Powell at 8 and Ryan Jones at 6 😉
I'm glad that Bowe got picked hes fully deserved it imo.
How do you think the home nations will go against the tri nations teams? I think Wales will run the SA's close and beat the Aussies, still no chance against the all blacks though.
I see that Munster are playing the All Blacks, thats a bit of a throw back to the old days and it should be a cracker.
I'll keep an eye out for Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings in particular.
I wouldn't at all be surprised to see Wales beat the Wallabies. You should take them apart in the front row and, if you do, they won't get any kind of platform for their backs. I have a feeling the Springboks will have too much for you though. Ditto England IMO. Not sure the Irish front row will be that much better than Australia's though.
The All Blacks are a bit of a puzzle. There's always a mountain to climb when playing them, but they're in something of a transition period. Any of England, Wales and Ireland might just shade them if we have a great day and they have a bad one.
The All Blacks are a bit of a puzzle. There's always a mountain to climb when playing them, but they're in something of a transition period. Any of England, Wales and Ireland might just shade them if we have a great day and they have a bad one.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg716594#msg716594 date=1225979583]
I'm looking forward to a weekend full of rugby and football mate. Yeah Halfpenny (future star) gets his chance as does Powell at 8 and Ryan Jones at 6 😉
I'm glad that Bowe got picked hes fully deserved it imo.
How do you think the home nations will go against the tri nations teams? I think Wales will run the SA's close and beat the Aussies, still no chance against the all blacks though.
I see that Munster are playing the All Blacks, thats a bit of a throw back to the old days and it should be a cracker.
I'll keep an eye out for Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings in particular.
[/quote]
R Jones is only at 6 though because of the injury to Jonathan Thomas. If he was fit then he'd be at 6, Jones back to 8 and Nugget at 7.
I see the 'boks have been seeking your selectorial advice and are playing someone out of position at Tighthead...
I'm looking forward to a weekend full of rugby and football mate. Yeah Halfpenny (future star) gets his chance as does Powell at 8 and Ryan Jones at 6 😉
I'm glad that Bowe got picked hes fully deserved it imo.
How do you think the home nations will go against the tri nations teams? I think Wales will run the SA's close and beat the Aussies, still no chance against the all blacks though.
I see that Munster are playing the All Blacks, thats a bit of a throw back to the old days and it should be a cracker.
I'll keep an eye out for Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings in particular.
[/quote]
R Jones is only at 6 though because of the injury to Jonathan Thomas. If he was fit then he'd be at 6, Jones back to 8 and Nugget at 7.
I see the 'boks have been seeking your selectorial advice and are playing someone out of position at Tighthead...
[quote author=bryndaloo link=topic=27836.msg716650#msg716650 date=1225984128]
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg716594#msg716594 date=1225979583]
I'm looking forward to a weekend full of rugby and football mate. Yeah Halfpenny (future star) gets his chance as does Powell at 8 and Ryan Jones at 6 😉
I'm glad that Bowe got picked hes fully deserved it imo.
How do you think the home nations will go against the tri nations teams? I think Wales will run the SA's close and beat the Aussies, still no chance against the all blacks though.
I see that Munster are playing the All Blacks, thats a bit of a throw back to the old days and it should be a cracker.
I'll keep an eye out for Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings in particular.
[/quote]
R Jones is only at 6 though because of the injury to Jonathan Thomas. If he was fit then he'd be at 6, Jones back to 8 and Nugget at 7.
I see the 'boks have been seeking your selectorial advice and are playing someone out of position at Tighthead...
[/quote]
I'm not so sure mate, there were other options to play at 6 and leave Jones at 8 if thats what Gatland had of wanted.
Yeah it will be interesting to see how SA's skipper goes in his new position. Did you notice that Jenkins is covering both props in the SA game with only Duncan Jones named on the bench? Gatland obviously knows that GJ can play both roles well enough at this level 😉
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg716594#msg716594 date=1225979583]
I'm looking forward to a weekend full of rugby and football mate. Yeah Halfpenny (future star) gets his chance as does Powell at 8 and Ryan Jones at 6 😉
I'm glad that Bowe got picked hes fully deserved it imo.
How do you think the home nations will go against the tri nations teams? I think Wales will run the SA's close and beat the Aussies, still no chance against the all blacks though.
I see that Munster are playing the All Blacks, thats a bit of a throw back to the old days and it should be a cracker.
I'll keep an eye out for Ferris, Heaslip and Jennings in particular.
[/quote]
R Jones is only at 6 though because of the injury to Jonathan Thomas. If he was fit then he'd be at 6, Jones back to 8 and Nugget at 7.
I see the 'boks have been seeking your selectorial advice and are playing someone out of position at Tighthead...
[/quote]
I'm not so sure mate, there were other options to play at 6 and leave Jones at 8 if thats what Gatland had of wanted.
Yeah it will be interesting to see how SA's skipper goes in his new position. Did you notice that Jenkins is covering both props in the SA game with only Duncan Jones named on the bench? Gatland obviously knows that GJ can play both roles well enough at this level 😉
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg716667#msg716667 date=1225985960]
I'm not so sure mate, there were other options to play at 6 and leave Jones at 8 if thats what Gatland had of wanted.
Yeah it will be interesting to see how SA's skipper goes in his new position. Did you notice that Jenkins is covering both props in the SA game with only Duncan Jones named on the bench? Gatland obviously knows that GJ can play both roles well enough at this level 😉
[/quote]
There is a world of difference between covering Tighthead and starting at Tighthead for the Lions.
I never denied that Jenkins couldn't cover the position but to start him there would be foolish.
I must be missing these other options at 6 (except Charvis whom Gatland refuses to pick) that Wales have that can compete at Test level.
I'm not so sure mate, there were other options to play at 6 and leave Jones at 8 if thats what Gatland had of wanted.
Yeah it will be interesting to see how SA's skipper goes in his new position. Did you notice that Jenkins is covering both props in the SA game with only Duncan Jones named on the bench? Gatland obviously knows that GJ can play both roles well enough at this level 😉
[/quote]
There is a world of difference between covering Tighthead and starting at Tighthead for the Lions.
I never denied that Jenkins couldn't cover the position but to start him there would be foolish.
I must be missing these other options at 6 (except Charvis whom Gatland refuses to pick) that Wales have that can compete at Test level.
[quote author=bryndaloo link=topic=27836.msg716671#msg716671 date=1225986363]
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg716667#msg716667 date=1225985960]
I'm not so sure mate, there were other options to play at 6 and leave Jones at 8 if thats what Gatland had of wanted.
Yeah it will be interesting to see how SA's skipper goes in his new position. Did you notice that Jenkins is covering both props in the SA game with only Duncan Jones named on the bench? Gatland obviously knows that GJ can play both roles well enough at this level 😉
[/quote]
There is a world of difference between covering Tighthead and starting at Tighthead for the Lions.
I never denied that Jenkins couldn't cover the position but to start him there would be foolish.
I must be missing these other options at 6 (except Charvis whom Gatland refuses to pick) that Wales have that can compete at Test level.
[/quote]
I'm not going to argue about it mate, i guess time will tell. I'd be happy to bet though that Jones will play far more games at 6 than at 8 in his games yet to come in a Wales shirt. Powell and Delve are far superior 8's than RJ (maybe even Popham).
As for Jenkins i think he's outstanding, and if needed he can could do a very good job on either side of the scrum as he's proved in the past.
[quote author=Rafa4PM link=topic=27836.msg716667#msg716667 date=1225985960]
I'm not so sure mate, there were other options to play at 6 and leave Jones at 8 if thats what Gatland had of wanted.
Yeah it will be interesting to see how SA's skipper goes in his new position. Did you notice that Jenkins is covering both props in the SA game with only Duncan Jones named on the bench? Gatland obviously knows that GJ can play both roles well enough at this level 😉
[/quote]
There is a world of difference between covering Tighthead and starting at Tighthead for the Lions.
I never denied that Jenkins couldn't cover the position but to start him there would be foolish.
I must be missing these other options at 6 (except Charvis whom Gatland refuses to pick) that Wales have that can compete at Test level.
[/quote]
I'm not going to argue about it mate, i guess time will tell. I'd be happy to bet though that Jones will play far more games at 6 than at 8 in his games yet to come in a Wales shirt. Powell and Delve are far superior 8's than RJ (maybe even Popham).
As for Jenkins i think he's outstanding, and if needed he can could do a very good job on either side of the scrum as he's proved in the past.
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