1
Waratahs and Lions name teams for Super Rugby semi
By Tom Webber
Australia hooker Tolu Latu has been recalled for the Waratahs' Super Rugby semi-final against the Lions, who will be without flanker Cyle Brink.
Waratahs boss Daryl Gibson selected Latu ahead of Damien Fitzpatrick in a bid to boost his team's effectiveness at the breakdown and when scrummaging.
It is the only change from the side that overturned a 17-point deficit to defeat the Highlanders 30-23 at Allianz Stadium last weekend.
"This match will be a very physical encounter, particularly with the breakdown and scrum being key battlegrounds. These are areas where Tolu excels," said Gibson ahead of the clash at Ellis Park on Saturday.
"We are expecting a real set-piece battle, so we need to be good in this area to compete with the Lions' scrum and lineout."
Lions boss Swys de Bruin has also made just one change, with Brink's arm injury sustained during the 40-23 quarter-final victory over the Jaguares giving Lourens Erasmus an opportunity from the start.
Hacjivah Dayimani has consequently been named among the replacements.
Springbok hooker Malcolm Marx was forced off late against the Jaguares but has been deemed fit enough to start for the Lions, who have finished as runners-up in the past two seasons.
Trending on RugbyPass
2
David Campese names his Springbok world player of the year winner
3
Let's be real about these All Blacks
4
Why World Cup winner doesn’t blame All Black for leaving New Zealand
5
Latest Comments
I think the best 15 we have is DMac. Jordan at 14.
Go to commentsIt certainly needs to be cherished. Despite Nick (and you) highlighting their usefulness for teams like Australia (and obviously those in France they find form with) I (mention it general in those articles) say that I fear the game is just not setup in Aus and NZ to appreciate nor maximise their strengths. The French game should continue to be the destination of the biggest and most gifted athletes but it might improve elsewhere too.
I just have an idea it needs a whole team focus to make work. I also have an idea what the opposite applies with players in general. I feel like French backs and halves can be very small and quick, were as here everyone is made to fit in a model physique. Louis was some 10 and 20 kg smaller that his opposition and we just do not have that time of player in our game anymore. I'm dying out for a fast wing to appear on the All Blacks radar.
But I, and my thoughts on body size in particular, could be part of the same indoctrination that goes on with player physiques by the establishment in my parts (country).
Go to comments