L Smith wrote: ↑Sun Jul 16, 2017 11:34 am
Haven't seen much of DMAC but I remember him looking a bit panicky against the Lions.
TBF, I wouldn't judge anyone on such paltry evidence and the popular view is that he's a very good player so, if nothing else, it's nice that he's being linked with Tigers: not Bath, Wasps or SArries.
If he is genuinely on the AB fringes, it's difficult to think that he would give up the ghost so it's probably just agents talk at the minute.
Played 10 against the Lions didn't he. I think he is far more a 15 in the Vieanu mould with a superior kicking game.
Definitely won't play 10 for the All Blacks, at least 3 before him without Cruden and 15 I'd say he's behind Smith, Dagg and now Jordie Barrett and if memory serves me the back 3 for their under 20s were all more than useful.
Maybe Marty coming too is a bit like the Ford brothers coming as a package
I'll put my neck out and say that if we get DMac it has the potential to be one of the best imports since Nick Evans. I.e. If he was any other nationality, he'd get 50+ caps.
I watch a fair bit of super rugby and he is absolutely electric, particularly at full back, and works very well as a playmaking option.
His AB chances will be limited under Hansen so I suspect he sees a chance to develop and earn a bit of cash over here, if Fissler is right.
sam16111986 wrote: ↑Sun Jul 16, 2017 10:26 am
Agree on Botha. Well worth the risk of a one year deal. If we can sign him below market rate with the promise of an extension and parse if he manages x number of games, even better.
Not sure we need both McKenzie brothers, as you day Damian will not come cheap and NZ/Chiefs will be very keen on keeping him what with Cruden leaving.
Are NZ that keen on keeping him really? I don't think Hansen has him in his plans if i'm being honest.
Maybe 2/3 seasons in the NH earn a good pay check and show that he can cut it with the physical side of things in the NH, then returns to NZ with a new coach in charge. (I would imagine Hansen will leave after the 2019 RWC).
He's only 22 and he's already got a couple of caps for the All Blacks. He's a fire cracker of a player and he kicks very well at goal. The only downside is he is diminutive and is probably more suited at 15 than 10, that might change as he gets more experienced. Given the current tactic of teams to kick to compete the much bigger and stronger Jordie Barrett has an advantage. Dagg and Smith offer experience at the back as well.
If he stays at the Chiefs and takes his chances at 10 then he could get back in with the ABs. He still needs to develop a bit but regular game time at 10 could sort that. Beauden didn't took untouchable on the Lions tour and Lima has never really put down a marker and is already 26. Having said that Mo'unga and Otere Black are quality young players given starting 10 shirts for next season.
Be a great signing at 15 for us. Closest to a like for like replacement we'd have managed to Geordan. Good cover for George at 10 and cam kick points from range.
He can carry a bit and seems to have a decent eye for a turnover but in the highlights reel I didn't see even a single attempt at an offload.
Let's wait and see
I refuse to have a battle of wits with an unarmed man
L Smith wrote: ↑Sun Jul 16, 2017 7:45 pm
He can carry a bit and seems to have a decent eye for a turnover but in the highlights reel I didn't see even a single attempt at an offload.
Let's wait and see
That is true but lots of meters made and a decent set of wheels. Time will tell.
Botha's injury record does look a bit worrying, and Ulster pulling out because of medical a couple of months ago doesn't help allay those fears. I suppose we just have to trust that the club have reason to believe the risk isn't so great, or at least got him on a good deal. A bit of South African edge in our pack will not be a bad thing!
Damian Mckenzie was yesterday described by the NZ Herald as "the best player in the world to watch". Looking at his highlight reels, he looks electric. If he signs, our backline (fully fit) would look seriously exciting.
Tiglon wrote: ↑Sun Jul 16, 2017 9:02 pm
Botha's injury record does look a bit worrying, and Ulster pulling out because of medical a couple of months ago doesn't help allay those fears. I suppose we just have to trust that the club have reason to believe the risk isn't so great, or at least got him on a good deal. A bit of South African edge in our pack will not be a bad thing!
Damian Mckenzie was yesterday described by the NZ Herald as "the best player in the world to watch". Looking at his highlight reels, he looks electric. If he signs, our backline (fully fit) would look seriously exciting.
It could be. The suggestion that he would only be available for next season seems to be coming from assumption by the New Zealand press, since he was reported to have signed a two year deal in 2016. There's nothing to say we're not paying a fee or that his release has been negotiated.