On reflection, based on injuries, I don’t believe the selections are that controversial, Samu aside…
Philip and Wright are probably both lucky to retain their spots.
Looking forward to see how Holloway goes at lock, as the role might suit him better.
No Quade and Lolesio… JOC (James O'Connor) (James O'Connor) not up to it… Foley is probably the best option left at the moment.
We don’t want to repeat what happened to Lolesio with Donaldson or Edmed.
My only concern is that Ikitau and Valetini are probably the only two players who can clear the ball out of the 22m…
Kicking in general play does seem to be a potential issue. I assume Foketi can hoist the ball when required. Otherwise looks like Gordon and Ikitau are the primary kickers for territory. Can't see Jake putting up too many box kicks as he hasn't the control of White in terms of distance or placement, but many would think that's a good thing. Hopefully it doesn't mean we actually lose an attacking tactic (if not a weapon due to reluctance to chase).
Kellaway, Koroibete and Wright are serviceable kicking from the back, but we'll miss Hodge's boot until he comes on.
Bernard Foley just might add an extra dimension if some of his popgun kicks resemble a strategically placed short kick in behind the line. Foley presumably will take the main kicks for goal (assuming we get to have any).
I seem to have more confidence in the centre pairing of Foketi and Ikitau than most on here. To me, Foketi combines with Len better than the Paisami/Ikitau pairing.
Will be interesting to watch Holloway in the row. While I personally prefer any one of Swain, Neville or Frost, I don't dislike Holloway there and I think he can hold his own in general play against the ABs. Lineout might be most problematic.
