I think the starting X1 is pretty locked in with
croc
Payne- Boxy, Nando, Libby
Bell- Stamenic and Garbett
Old- Kosta and Wood
Bell was preferred for the Olympics so is clearly Baze’s #6. Based on the Rufer I saw last year I would say he was more mobile than Bell but so hard to be definitive on that point.
I would give Joe 65 mins and Rufer the rest of the 35 (assuming 10 mins extra time which is standard now!).
We need to manage Old well so expect him to give around the same mins. Just has played well in the OFC (one of the better players).
Same with Payne. Sutton was one of the positive stories of the Olympics so have no issues with him albeit the RHS is not his preference.
I’m hoping Wood can bring his form to the national team. He’s better suited to the AW’s now than he was 3 years ago when he struggled with link up play with our ball players. I think he’ll go well.
croc
Payne- Boxy, Nando, Libby
Bell- Stamenic and Garbett
Old- Kosta and Wood
Bell was preferred for the Olympics so is clearly Baze’s #6. Based on the Rufer I saw last year I would say he was more mobile than Bell but so hard to be definitive on that point.
I would give Joe 65 mins and Rufer the rest of the 35 (assuming 10 mins extra time which is standard now!).
We need to manage Old well so expect him to give around the same mins. Just has played well in the OFC (one of the better players).
Same with Payne. Sutton was one of the positive stories of the Olympics so have no issues with him albeit the RHS is not his preference.
I’m hoping Wood can bring his form to the national team. He’s better suited to the AW’s now than he was 3 years ago when he struggled with link up play with our ball players. I think he’ll go well.
I can't see Old starting. Hes coming off an injury and they'll want to be careful with him.
I wouldn't be surprised to see Waine start up front with Wood too.