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Taken from SARugby.com
Come Saturday morning an intriguing contest is set to unfold. Both the Hurricanes and the Waratahs have their own agendas heading into this encounter. Grant Shub previews the tasty clash…
After last season’s 14-38 hammering at the hands of the Waratahs in the final round, the Hurricanes will be looking for a dose of revenge at the weekend; whilst the Waratahs will be intent on getting their 2008 campaign off on the right footing. Two sides with plenty to prove in their opening clash of the season makes for riveting viewing.
The Hurricanes, who disappointed with an eighth-place finish in 2007, are tipped by many pundits as a side to do big things this season. Their exciting backline coupled with a world-class loose-forward trio could see the mercurial ‘Canes fire. They have threatened to win the competition in the past, but their best year came in 2006 with a silver medal.
The Waratahs, in turn who suffered a nightmare season in 2007- finishing second from bottom – will be smarting from their whipping boys tag and will be keen to put things right. That said, the team who finished runners-up in 2005, will have to start winning if coach Ewen McKenzie intends keeping his day job.
The return of the rested All Blacks for the ‘Canes will surely bolster their resolve and they head into this encounter as firm favourites. But that said the Waratahs have a host of exciting youngsters, among them highly-rated new winger and league convert - Timana Tahu - in the back division described as a ‘phenomenon’ by his wing man Lote Tuqiri. At fullback Lachlan Turner is also poised for another big season and keep a close eye on quick-steeping centre Ben Jacobs. Whilst the ‘Tahs enjoy a host of youngsters in the fray, their inexperience and lack of depth may hamper their progress. Without Aussie discard Peter Hewat at the kicking helm, their resources are sure to be tested.
Another ‘star’ who needs to prove his fiscal worth is Fijian-born Lote Tuqiri. He was virtually anonymous last season and now needs turn in star performances, whilst guiding the youngsters in the set-up.
Prediction: I’ve been good at backing the Hurricanes in the past only to end up with egg on my face, but they do look a more balanced side and have depth in key positions. SA Sports Illustrated magazine has the ‘Canes as 9/1 favourites for the title, while the ‘Tahs are 12/1.