The Rugby Championship kicks off - and I'm tipping Australia and the Springboks this weekend!

The biggest rugby annual rugby competition in the world is about to kick off- but there’s not too much excitement about this side of the world. I suppose it’d be a topic for debate which is the best tournament, with the contenders being the 6N, the Heineken Cup, and Super Rugby. But the top three nations in the world, plus Argentina, does it for me. Here’s a pocket form guide.

New Zealand – obvious favourites, they are nearly always in the top 1 in the world.  They have a few chinks though – no Dan Carter, and Cruden to date has never showed his Chiefs form for the AB’s. Then there’s Ritchie McCaw, who’s probably played about 20 mins of competitive rugby this year, and done it pretty anonymously, but he’s starting and captain. Still the favourites, but I think they’re  vincible.

Australia – Lots of upheaval in their camp, New coach, more prima donnas than you can shake a stick at, and a humbling loss in the last test against the Lions. As a group though, they’ve had a much better run into the series with the Lions experience under their belt than any of the other teams. I think they’re the dark horse this year, second at worst, maybe winning. I’m tipping them this weekend anyway.

South Africa – As normal, spoilt for choice with players, but still old tactics and old chestnuts like Fourie du Preez get rolled out. Surely, with the world cup 2 years away, now is the time to get new players bedded in. Heyneke Meyer doesn’t seem to have a grand plan, he’s making it up as he goes along. Probably win at home, and struggle everywhere else.

Argentina – fourth is fairly well nailed on already, unless the Boks can outdo themselves. Lobbe is a big loss for them, but they are sure to sneak a win this year and build from that. I doubt they’ll beat the Springboks this weekend though.

Rugby Championship
Saturday , August 17
Australia vs New Zealand 11:05
South Africa vs Argentina 16:00