Waratahs 2026

[Brumby Runner]

Brumbies issue is that their current crop are very young - Nelson and Thorn are like 22 and 21. Picking up a 20 year old to add to that isn't a great distribution. I feel like they might sniff around for an experienced pro (Powell maybe? Not super exciting) to come back and round out their career while they wait for a really exciting young candidate, or jump on Werchon/Thomas when they come off contract.

The force's spread right now is pretty suited to a 20 year old coming in, though it's a bit unclear what's happening with Phillipson.

I wouldn't mind if the Brumbies were able to snaffle Werchon at some time (imo more potential than Thomas but Maartens likely to best of all) but otherwise I am quite happy with the progress of Klayton Thorn. In the same age group as Thomas and Wilson, but again imo a higher ceiling. He has the physique to play like Farr-Jones. His acceleration is evident in his many breaks from the scrum base, a la McDermott. Further development required, but expect he'll get a lot of playing time in SR26.

 

[The Ghost of Raelene]

Thorn will naturally get a lot of mins into him. As much as Thomas and Wilson so it out him and the Brumbies in a good position to figure things out.

Naturally the Reds and Tahs won’t hold 3 top line 9s (assuming they all kick on)

I was surprised the Force didn’t bring Philipson back. He looked really good for Norths and I know it’s Club footy but they haven’t replaced his spot it seems?

 

[Major Tom]

Thorn will naturally get a lot of mins into him. As much as Thomas and Wilson so it out him and the Brumbies in a good position to figure things out.

Naturally the Reds and Tahs won’t hold 3 top line 9s (assuming they all kick on)

I was surprised the Force didn’t bring Philipson back. He looked really good for Norths and I know it’s Club footy but they haven’t replaced his spot it seems?

When is Gordon signed until? You’d suggest that he and Tate would probably be keen to try overseas after the WC.

 

[teamsport]

When is Gordon signed until? You’d suggest that he and Tate would probably be keen to try overseas after the WC.

I imagine Gordon would leave in 2028 definetly with Grover to come in at least as a third string option by then as the plan. He will be in the 20’s the next few seasons. Teddy will be number one by 2028 and to see more minutes this year and next although he is not signed for 2027 yet. McKellar did seem to keep his word in terms of giving him more opportunity in 2025, it was strange Teddy barely played Super Rugby Aus though.

 

[The Ghost of Raelene]

When is Gordon signed until? You’d suggest that he and Tate would probably be keen to try overseas after the WC.

Gordon will be 34 when his contract expires. Body dependent on playing on but could go around in Japan if he wants.

Tate at 29 post WC will be interesting. Obviously have interest from RA and franchises here but also his last chance at that age to land a big OS deal in the 3-4 year range at big money. Could be too hard to pass up.

I imagine Gordon would leave in 2028 definetly with Grover to come in at least as a third string option by then as the plan. He will be in the 20’s the next few seasons. Teddy will be number one by 2028 and to see more minutes this year and next although he is not signed for 2027 yet. McKellar did seem to keep his word in terms of giving him more opportunity in 2025, it was strange Teddy barely played Super Rugby Aus though.

Not worried about that. The Tahs used the comp as an exercise in filling squad positions it seemed and McDonald earned a spot so job done.

 

[teamsport]

McDonald can’t box kick to a professional standard so I don’t know if he is the answer to be honest. It’s half the job these days.