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Highlanders Rugby: Long Injury List Problematic with Season Looming
Published: February 8, 2012
For the best part of the last decade, the Highlanders have been the lowest finishing New Zealand team in Super Rugby. But resurgence in 2011, followed by some top signings over the summer has seen many predict that the Highlanders will re-emerge as contenders once again in 2012.
However, as has become the case towards the end of 2011, injuries look to be dictating the franchise's destiny. The team will enter the season without many of its top players, as was reported by the Otago Daily Times.
The midfield looks to be the main problem area, with Shaun Treeby and Kendrick Lynn both unavailable with knee and neck injuries respectively—while Tamati Ellison will not return to New Zealand from Japan for another two weeks.
While Ellison will be back for the start of the competition, Treeby's return is at this stage unknown—with Lynn's expected to be two months away. This leaves the question: Who will pair with Ellison with only three specialist midfielders having been selected in the squad?
Utility back Ben Smith is an option. He dabbled at centre during the 2011 season, but would be of much better value to the team at fullback. However, they may not have much of a choice since a good back three will be wasted without someone that knows what they're doing in the No. 12 and 13 jerseys.
The other option would be Otago first five-eighth, Glenn Dickson, who is a member of the wider training squad. However, Dickson has no experience at this level. Plus, it would be asking a lot for him to go into the starting team in a position that is very much a secondary position for him.
Outside backs Kade Poki and Siale Piutau remain sidelined for lengthy periods—both of whom will be missed. Poki was one of the most electrifying players in las...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Rugby Union
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