Am not expecting much squad turnover, although some will be needed given the quality coming through the ranks.
I suspect we will lose (or let go) at the end of 2020:
1. Thomson: True warrior, but will be hard to justify $400k for him by 2021 given the development of our young backrowers.
2. Elliott: Good-value depth player who won't be needed by 2021 after young Hopoate stars this year.
3. Waddell. Will have a break-out year in 2020, meaning other clubs will pay much more. Sadly, we won't be able to match their offers.
4. Boyle: Too many good props in our system. One will have to make way for Keppie. Boyle the most likely.
5. Miski: Too good for reserve grade. He'll have to move to a weaker club (ie, the other 15) to find opportunity.
6. Funa/Anderson. It's now or never for them. Probably Anderson to go if he doesn't kick on.
That will free up 6 spots, mostly to be taken by our outstanding development squad.
I suspect we will lose (or let go) at the end of 2020:
1. Thomson: True warrior, but will be hard to justify $400k for him by 2021 given the development of our young backrowers.
2. Elliott: Good-value depth player who won't be needed by 2021 after young Hopoate stars this year.
3. Waddell. Will have a break-out year in 2020, meaning other clubs will pay much more. Sadly, we won't be able to match their offers.
4. Boyle: Too many good props in our system. One will have to make way for Keppie. Boyle the most likely.
5. Miski: Too good for reserve grade. He'll have to move to a weaker club (ie, the other 15) to find opportunity.
6. Funa/Anderson. It's now or never for them. Probably Anderson to go if he doesn't kick on.
That will free up 6 spots, mostly to be taken by our outstanding development squad.