It's a pity that Halfpenny has lost his form this season, after being so great last season. I wonder if the slight injury he's carrying which needs surgery in the summer is having any effect? Or is it just a case of second season syndrome, where he's being singled out as a danger man by the opposition and shut down quickly. He doas offer that massive boot of his though, which is normally good for 3-6 points in a match. This isn't enough for him to start imo, but I won't be annoyed or surprised if he get's the nod over Tom James.
What I personally like about James is his courage. He's willing to try things, take on the defense or little chips over the top. They may not all work out, and he may still be a little inexperienced and raw, but he's got soo much potential. The more he plays, the better he'll get.
As for scrum half, I really hope Cooper doesn't start! He's not playing well, and starting him sends out the wrong message to Rees and Roberts, who are both playing well. Rees is my pick as he's been playing consistently well. He's shown an aggressive edge to his game that Cooper or Roberts simply don't posses. He's no Phillips, but he's our best option, and by no means poor. Martin Roberts would be my next choice, but I feel Cooper offer's experience needed on the bench if Rees struggles.
Second row choice is going to be interesting. I think Gatland will stick with Alun-Wyn Jones, although if he doesn't play well against England, he'll loose his place. Who to partner him though? There's a choice of 5, Gough, Charteris, Jonathan Thomas, Deiniol Jones and Bradley Davies. This is the toughest selection of the lot imo.
- Gough hasn't been playing regularily for the Ospreys, but he brings the dog that's often needed at international level + some scrummaging brute.
- Charteris is only just back from injury, too similar to Alun-Wyn?
- Jon Thomas is another good choice, playing well for the Ospreys in that position alongside Alun-Wyn, offers a good carrying option, and is a good jeneral of the linout.
- Bradley Davies isn't quite ready, he needs to increase his aggression imo.
- Deiniol Jones is an outside choice, he does the basics well, but doesn't offer as much as others around the park.
I change my mind on this constantly, as I now think Alun-Wyn and Jon Thomas should be our locks Saturday. Gough or Charteris on the bench, with Jon Thomas able to move to blindside.
There's a strong case to start Andrew Bishop alongside Hook or Roberts. Will be interesting to see who Gatland goes for. Maybe Jonathan Davies will be on the bench or start?
The rest of the team picks itself, as long as none of the injury rumors are true!
[/b]
