NPC TEAM PREVIEWS

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Counties Manukau

SIXTH IN ODDS CONFERENCE IN 2022: The Counties Manukau Steelers had a disappointing campaign, with just three wins from 10 games. Things may have been so different after game two if they had managed to turn the Ranfurly Shield challenge against Hawke’s Bay into a famous victory and not a one-point loss. A later win over Bay of Plenty showed what they were capable of.

KEY PLAYERS: Chiefs and New Zealand XV winger Etene Nanai-Seturo is one of the best finishers in the game. First-five Riley Hohepa continues to impress while hooker Zuriel Togiatama proved his capabilities with Fijian Drua. His dynamic ball-running makes him a real asset for the Steelers. All Blacks No 8 Hoskins Sotutu and halfback Cam Roigard may be available for some of the NPC programme.

YOUNG GUNS: Lock or loose forward Alex McRobbie has Counties Manukau rugby royalty in his blood and showed his ability in last year’s NPC. The 23-year-old has the power (110kg) and height (1.97m) to be a real force in the Steelers pack. He should kick on this season after his Super Rugby Pacific taster with Moana Pasifika. Liam Daniela is an excellent running halfback.

SEASON PROSPECTS: The Steelers have a squad full of experienced campaigners, with many having played at Super Rugby Pacific level. Coach Reon Graham coached rep rugby through the grades and led Counties Manukau to national sevens titles in 2016 and 2017, as well as a runner-up finish in 2018. His policy of picking local club players first proved hugely popular last year and should pay dividends in 2023.

Waikato

QUARTER-FINALISTS IN 2022: It was their Chiefs’ partners Bay of Plenty who put an end to Waikato’s title aspirations. Just a week after beating the Steamers by a single point in Hamilton, Waikato again hosted their local rivals from over the Kaimai Range in the quarter-finals. This time the visitors won a thriller by 34 –27.

KEY PLAYERS: Halfback Cortez Ratima got better with every game for the Chiefs, so expect him to be a dominant force in the NPC. Ollie Norris is one of the best loosehead props in the country and pushing hard for national honours. Centre/winger Bailyn Sullivan is a powerful ball carrier while loose forward Mitch Jacobson is a strong defender.

YOUNG GUNS: First-five Taha Kemara showed his class in the NPC last season with his speed, kicking game and tactical skills outstanding. He also made his debut for the Crusaders this year, so will be set to run the backline with Damian McKenzie on All Blacks duty. Daniel Sinkinson is one of the quickest wingers in the NPC.

SEASON PROSPECTS: Waikato start the season with three away games as FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton is unavailable due to FIFA Women’s World Cup matches being played there. Southland, Bay of Plenty and Hawke’s Bay on the road will test the Mooloos before their first home game against Taranaki. The Waikato squad is well-balanced, with good depth in all positions, so despite the tough start expect to see the team still around at play-offs time.