Super Rugby Preview: Waratahs

The Waratahs head into Super Rugby 2017 on the back of an uncharacteristic 2016, where they failed to reach the knock-out stages of Super Rugby.

Waratahs fans will not be too pleased by the departures of Waycliff Palu and Kurtley Beale but the recruitment of Sekope Kepu up front will soften the blow. The return of Will Skelton from Saracens will excite head coach, Daryl Gibson, as he has enjoyed a fruitful 3-month spell with some explosive performances from the lock.

The Waratahs kick-off their 2017 campaign against The Western Force on 25 February at the Allianz Area.

Head Coach: Daryl Gibson

Notable departures: Benn Robinson (retired), Kurtley Beale (Wasps, England), Waycliff Palu (Verblitz, Japan)

Notable additions: Sekope Kepu (Bordeaux, France), Michael Wells (Brumbies)

Captain: Michael Hooper

Forward to watch: Will Skelton  

Back to watch: Israel Folau

Rising Star: Andrew Kellaway