Will be surprised if 2 of this 4 do not start the test. Would not surprise me all 4 start. Even if I agree, none has looked totally convincing over other candidates, if not plain second best.
Come on, where are all the Welsh posters? I need a reason to believe in these players.
Tbf Halfpenny hasn't really done much wrong this tour, and I thought he had a great game against the Maori (actually saw a fair few NZers praising him on twitter), plus the whole not missing a kick helps too ! On the flip side, he doesn't give you the same attacking game that his main rival for 15 (Liam Williams) gives, even if he has been entering the line well.
Personally I think he'll start Leigh because he's very solid and will be a huge source of points if the forwards can get on top, but I would 100% prefer Liam. Last time he played 15 vs the AB's he was outstanding, but Gats clearly wants to keep this one tight.
Warbs still isn't match fit - shouldn't start. Would love to see Tips play because he adds to much attacking potential, but knowing Gats it'll be all power - SOB starting and Warbs bench.
AWJ hasn't been at the top of his game, but can see him being on the bench for his leadership and experience, but on form should be Lawes.
North is a hard one because we all know what he can do when he's at his best, but hasn't shown it yet on this tour. In his defense, the two games he's played in have been the most forward orientated ones where the wings ended up being a bit anonymous / got no quality ball at all. Personally I want him to start, so that he can show he is that big game player who can score tries from anywhere. If he goes missing, then he's out of the starting 15 for the rest of the series. He caused the All Blacks (Savea in particular) all sorts of issues with ball in hand last summer, so if he can do that again (and stay fit this time) it's gonna be a huge asset.
It's probably a harsh call for Daly, but I cant see him not being in the 23 at least anyway because of his versatility!
What do we think are the chances Ken Owens gets drafted in ahead of Jamie George?
I think George has been outstanding in the tight so far, and good subtle stuff in the loose too, but can see Gatland using an experienced excuse again, thoughts?
Definitely agree that George has been outstanding, but I've been very impressed by Ken as well so I honestly don't mind who starts as they both provide such a brilliant impact off the bench. George edges it on form definitely, and if Gatland is sane (debatable I know...) Krutoje will start, giving George a very familiar target at the line out, so again should start.
Interesting to see Joseph in a few people starting XV, not be particularly impressed with him this tour, or this season in general (bar that Scotland game). Davies has been in blistering form towards the end of this season and been impressive in NZ so far, so thought he'd have been a nailed on starter.
